Franchise Resales Remain Strong

Franchise resales remain a vital and active segment of the industry. In every market cycle, there will be opportunities and experienced advisors can make all the difference.

53 transactions. Hundreds of units transferred. A market still moving.

The franchise resale market continues to demonstrate strength, a trend underscored by Franchise Times recognizing National Franchise Sales as a Franchise Times Dealmaker.

Despite the challenges of the past two years including higher interest rates, economic uncertainty, and shifting consumer trends, franchise businesses have remained attractive investment opportunities for strategic financial buyers. Transaction activity has continued across the spectrum and with an aging franchisee the trend is expected to continue.

What we’ve seen firsthand is that quality opportunities continue to command attention. Buyers are still pursuing well-performing single-unit locations, while larger groups and private operators are actively seeking multiunit portfolios, development rights, and even franchisor platforms. During the Dealmaker time-period NFS completed 42 transactions, representing hundreds of units across a wide range of brands and transaction sizes, and closing another 11 transactions in the first quarter of 2026 alone.

These transactions have ranged from straightforward unit resales to highly complex multi-state portfolio transfers, franchisor acquisitions, and bankruptcy auctions. Notable projects included the sale of 77-unit Pizza Hut assets across four states, the transfer of a 17-unit Five Guys portfolio in Florida with development rights, the sale of Teaspoon, a popular boba tea franchisor including 48 franchised and 4 corporate stores, and multiple portfolio transactions for brands like Popeyes, Burger King, Denny’s, and Jamba. These deals demonstrate that activity exists at every level of the market.

The common thread in today’s market is that buyers are increasingly selective, but still motivated. Strong operators are using this environment to expand strategically, while sellers who prepare properly and bring realistic expectations to market are still achieving successful outcomes. Franchisors also continue to play an important role, prioritizing qualified buyers who can strengthen system performance and ensure smooth operational transitions.

Being named a Franchise Times Dealmaker is an honor, but more importantly, it reinforces what we already know: franchise resales remain a vital and active segment of the industry. In every market cycle, there will be opportunities and experienced advisors can make all the difference.