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The Evolution of Franchise Agreements in Restaurant Mergers

Explore the latest trends in franchise agreements and brand acquisitions in the restaurant industry. Learn how franchisees are driving growth and expansion.

Updated On Jul. 23, 2025 Published Jul. 23, 2025

Anastasia Ivers

Anastasia Ivers

a bar with a bunch of wine glasses hanging from the ceiling

Photo by Sergio Arteaga on Unsplash

Driving Growth Through Franchise Agreements

Franchise agreements have become a driving force behind the growth and expansion of restaurant brands in the competitive market. By offering franchising opportunities, restaurants can scale their operations more rapidly and reach new markets with the help of motivated franchisees.

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Photo by Sergio Arteaga on Unsplash

Recent Trends in Franchise Agreements

Recent years have seen a surge in brand acquisitions by franchisees, leading to increased consolidation and collaboration in the restaurant industry. Franchisees are increasingly becoming key players in driving innovation, growth, and profitability for established brands.

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Photo by Sergio Arteaga on Unsplash

Success Stories in Franchise Agreements

One notable success story is the strategy employed by Brix, backed by Legacy Brands, in expanding Friendly’s locations in Georgia, the Carolinas, and Texas. Through strategic franchise agreements and operational expertise, Brix has achieved positive sales growth and momentum across its brands.

Impact on Restaurant Mergers and Acquisitions

The evolution of franchise agreements has significantly impacted the landscape of restaurant mergers and acquisitions. Franchisees are actively participating in the acquisition of new brands and storebases, reshaping the industry's competitive dynamics.

https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1708506751726-e1709ba6b147?ixid=M3w2MjYzNjJ8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHwxMHx8cmVzdGF1cmFudCUyMGluZHVzdHJ5fGVufDB8MHx8fDE3NTMyNjMwMDl8MA&ixlib=rb-4.1.0

Photo by Sergio Arteaga on Unsplash

Key Strategies for Franchise Success

To ensure the success of franchise agreements, brands must focus on maintaining brand loyalty, introducing menu innovations, and adopting strategic pricing approaches. By incentivizing franchisees with discounts and support, brands can attract new operators and drive sustainable growth.

https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1708506751726-e1709ba6b147?ixid=M3w2MjYzNjJ8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHwxMHx8cmVzdGF1cmFudCUyMGluZHVzdHJ5fGVufDB8MHx8fDE3NTMyNjMwMDl8MA&ixlib=rb-4.1.0

Photo by Sergio Arteaga on Unsplash

Trends in Brand Acquisitions

Brand acquisitions by franchisees are on the rise, with examples like Thrive Restaurant Group's acquisition of Modern Market Eatery and Sun Holdings' multi-brand platform expansion through acquisitions like Uncle Julio’s. These acquisitions demonstrate the growing influence of franchisees in the industry.