Entrepreneur magazine has released its annual list of the top 500 franchises, and 7-11 tops the list for the first time in 2008. That’s a position Subway has held for seven years, but 7-11’s conversion over the past two years from company-owned stores to franchises is being noticed and recognized as a positive transition. This new accolade should translate to positive boost to the 7-11 brand. I’m sure the company will promote their top franchise ranking heavily in 2008.

Interestingly, the top 10 franchises in Entrepreneur’s list of the best franchise opportunities for 2008 look like a who’s who of fast food. Here are the top 10 franchises of 2008 according to Entrepreneur:

1. 7-11
2. Subway
3. Dunkin’ Donuts
4. Pizza Hut
5. McDonald’s
6. Sonic Drive-In
7. KFC
8. InterContinental Hotels
9. Domino’s Pizza
10. RE/MAX Intl.

I was actually most surprised by the franchise that came in at #11, The UPS Store/Mail Boxes, Etc. I’m not a franchise expert, but I am familiar with the various lawsuits from franchise owners against UPS for unfair practices. Entrepreneur’s list of the top 500 franchises is created using a “top secret ranking formula,” so it’s difficult to know why one franchise ranks high on their list and another ranks low.

What do you think of Entrepreneur’s list of the top 500 franchises for 2008, and in particular, what do you think of the top 10?

You can read more about The UPS Store franchise opportunity and lawsuit on b5media’s franchising blog, FranchisePick.

Post from: EveryJoe

Top 500 Franchise Opportunities for 2008