While the amount of women pursuing franchise ownership dipped during the pandemic in 2020, Franchise Insights reported that “women are returning to the pursuit of business ownership…and now represent half of all prospects, regardless of age.”
Franchise ownership is a great opportunity for women seeking to be a business owner without having to start from scratch. In fact, Franchise Business Review surveyed over 8,500 female franchise owners representing 350 franchise brands and “89% of female franchisees surveyed said they enjoy being part of their franchise organization.”
Though every industry is accessible to women, some franchise sectors align particularly well with many women’s skills and interests.
Top 4 Franchise Industries for Women
#1 – Child Service-Oriented Franchises
According to Entrepreneur, “child service-oriented franchises lead the pack for the most female owners, at 51%.” Popular types of child-focused franchises are: tutoring centers, daycares, after-school programs, and enrichment classes.
A few reasons why child-focused franchises resonate with women entrepreneurs include:
- Many already have experience with childcare or education
- Flexible hours make it easier for an ideal work-life balance
- An opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the community and children’s development
#2 – Travel & Hospitality Franchises
The next highest sector is travel and hospitality, with women representing 43% of owners (Entrepreneur). Travel and hospitality franchises include:
- Travel agencies and planning services
- Hotel and lodging
- Tour and excursions planning
- Corporate travel services
- Vacation property management
While it’s true that COVID-19 “made 2020 ‘the worst year in tourism history’”, international tourism is expected to “make a full recovery by the end of 2024” (Statista). This recovery certainly benefits the travel land hospitality industry, making it an attractive opportunity for prospective franchisees. Additional reasons women entrepreneurs in particular are drawn to this industry include:
- It offers a combination of flexibility and creativity (design packages and travel experiences)
- It’s a fulfilling opportunity that combines passion with career
#3 – Fitness-Related Franchises
Women represent 39% of fitness-related franchise owners (Entrepreneur). Aspects that make the fitness sector attractive to women entrepreneurs include:
- They can support other women in health and fitness
- It’s an opportunity to establish strong client relationships
- It offers low overhead costs compared to traditional gyms
Examples of fitness-related franchises include:
- Boutique Fitness Studios
- Gym and Health Clubs
- Personal Training and Coaching Centers
- Specialty Fitness for Kids
- Dance Fitness Franchises
- Outdoor and Adventure Fitness
#4 – Sports & Rec Franchises
Sports and recreation franchises rank fourth, with women making up 36% of franchise owners in this sector (Entrepreneur).
In general, sports franchises cater to families, youth, and communities, making them appealing to women interested in both sports and community engagement. It’s also a way to get involved in sports without the physical demands of coaching or training.
Examples of these types of franchises include:
- Youth Sports Training and Leagues
- Fitness and Adventure Camps
- Golf and Tennis Centers
- Dance and Gymnastics Studios
- Recreational Facilities and Trampoline Parks
- Outdoor Activity and Water Sports
Are You Interested in Franchise Ownership?
Franchise ownership offers women a flexible and supportive path to business ownership, enabling them to work in fields they’re passionate about while contributing to their communities.
If you are interested in buying a franchise, FranNet can help you get started. Our expert franchise consultants will evaluate your skills and goals to match you with the perfect franchise opportunity. We’ll walk you through the process from start to finish. Schedule your free consultation today!