Which franchises have done the best job of building themselves up as beloved, recognizable, robust brands? That's what Entrepreneur set out to discover with our Top Franchise Brands ranking.
The ranking was determined by taking the companies that applied for this year's Franchise 500 and analyzing factors such as social media followers, system size, number of years in business, number of years franchising, and overall reputation—and looking at how they all combine to form lasting relationships with fans.
Keep in mind that this list is not intended as a recommendation of any particular company. A vibrant brand is just one of many elements to consider when buying a franchise; it's critical that you do due diligence before investing in any opportunity. Read the company's legal documents, consult with an attorney and an accountant, and talk to as many existing and former franchisees as you can.