Did you know that many famous celebrities are also successful franchise owners? Beyond their careers in the entertainment industry, some celebrities turn to the world of franchising to achieve incredible business success.
What is franchising? Franchising is the process of buying into, owning, and growing a business format venture that is purchased from a franchisor company. In this way, for a fee, the franchisee (investor) can draw upon the expertise and guidance of the franchisor (founder) to increase their chances for success in business. The franchisor sells their proven successful business model and gives assistance to the franchisee to help them with building, opening, training and business consulting to grow their franchise business location.
Franchising is a popular, and statistically a safer, method for starting a business in the United States and worldwide. Just in the U.S. in fact, there are more than 4,000 different business types of franchises for sale, which includes everything from McDonalds and 7-Eleven, to pet stores, retail outlets, car dealerships, hotels, and even aesthetics and wellness spa franchises, just like our very own Glosshouz Spa Center franchise.
Why Celebrities are in Franchising
From actors, musicians, athletes, and reality TV stars, some well-known celebrities have not only conquered Hollywood but have also made their mark in the business world through franchising.
The allure of franchising for celebrities is undeniable. While they may have achieved fame and fortune in their respective industries, many celebrities are drawn to the world of franchising as a means to diversify their income streams and build a lasting legacy beyond their entertainment careers.
Main reasons why celebrities are attracted to franchising:
Increased Potential for Business Success. By investing in a franchise, celebrities can leverage the existing brand success and customer loyalty to drive their business ventures. A franchise business model is a less risky venture than creating a new and unproven business.
Capitalize on Their Own Brand. Franchising offers celebrities a chance to capitalize on their personal brand and popularity. With a built-in fan base, celebrities can attract customers to their franchise locations, creating a buzz and driving foot traffic. This not only translates into increased sales but also provides an opportunity for celebrities to engage with their fans in a different capacity, fostering a deeper connection and sense of community.
Turn-key Business Model. Franchising provides celebrities with a turnkey business model that comes with comprehensive support and training. This is particularly appealing for those who may not have prior experience in running a business. Franchise systems offer operational guidelines, marketing support, and ongoing assistance, allowing celebrities to focus on their strengths while relying on the expertise of the franchisor.
Long-term Financial Stability. Franchising offers celebrities a chance for long-term financial success. Unlike endorsement deals or acting roles that may have a limited lifespan, a well-run franchise can generate steady revenue for years to come. This financial stability can provide celebrities with a sense of security and the freedom to pursue other passions or philanthropic endeavors.
Ultimately, the allure of franchising for celebrities lies in the opportunity to build a lasting business empire and leave a mark beyond the entertainment industry. By embracing franchising, these famous individuals can leverage their star power to make a successful transition from stardom to entrepreneurial success.
Examples of Celebrity Franchisees
In the world of franchising, there are many successful actors who have ventured beyond the realm of stardom and conquered the business world. These actors have not only showcased their talent on the big screen but have also displayed their sharp business acumen:
Mark Wahlberg, Mark who's famously fit and has an obvious passion for fitness invested in fitness franchise F45. According to entrepreneur.com, Mark bought a pre-IPO stake in F45 — a chain of gyms that specializes in HIIT-style workouts that aim to help you burn 750 calories in a 45-minute session. He also became the franchisor's chief brand officer in March 2023. F45 fitness brand has 2000+ locations across the world. Not only that, but Mark is in his own right a famous franchisor! He's known also for his successful restaurant chain, Wahlburgers. With a passion for food, Wahlberg and his brothers created Wahlbergers, opening multiple Wahlburgers locations across the United States and internationally.
Patrick Mahomes, Patrick Mahomes who's the Kansas City Chiefs famous quarterback, who in 2021 won the highest paid contract extension of $450 Million at the time, has majorly invested in franchise opportuntities as well as other business ventures. According to a sportingnews.com article in Jan 2023, he's recently invested in big name franchise company Whataburger and is bringing 30 locations of this Texas brand (where Mahomes is from) to the Kansas City area by 2027. "I love Kansas City and I love Whataburger," Patrick Mahomes said in a news release on the KMO Burger expansion. "I'm excited to help bring a gift from my first home to my second home."
Chris Brown, Multiplatinum Artist Chris Brown is mostly known for his music, but he's also a successful entrepreneur. He opened his music label Chris Brown Entertainment under Interscope Records and he's ventured into the world of real estate as well. But when it comes to franchising, this artist also owns 14 Burger King franchise locations in Virginia.
Drew Brees, this famous football celebrity is also a long-time fan of franchising and has been growing his franchise empire over the last 20 years. He has invested in a number of franchise brands over this time including being a multi-unit owner with Dunkin’ Donuts, Jimmy John’s and Walk-On’s Sports Bistreaux. Brees has told journalists that he loved the Jimmy John's No. 9 Italian Night Club, which he ordered about three times a week while in college! Walk-On’s is a 63-unit sports restaurant with a Louisiana theme. Drew's latest investment in franchising is with California Super Food chain everbowl(TM), and he's reportedly committed with partner to develop 150 locations of this brand in the future.
Shaquille O'Neil, the famous basketball player has successfully transitioned from court into the world of business. He owns several famous franchises such as Krispy Kreme, Papa John’s Pizza, and Five Guys. In an interview with the Wall Street Journal, Shaq answered what he found so attractive in franchising. He said, “It’s just partnering up with another reliable, excellent brand. Being in business with people, and just owning stuff.”
Venus Williams, the famous tennis player, is also a business savvy entrepreneur. She's a co-founder of V-Starr interior, the owner of the EleVen clothing line, a New York Times Best Seller co-author, and is also a multi-unit franchise owner with Jamba Juice --now Jamba (since they do more than juice). Williams owns multiple locations of the brand in the Washington D.C. area.
Robyn Dixon, a star of the "The Real Housewives of Potomac", recently was interviewed in Franchise Times Magazine, and revealed that she has bought into a brand new facial franchise brand called Glo30 and is opening a location in her home state of Maryland. A personal consumer of the brand, she told the founder, "Sign me up. I want in." Opening of the franchise location, the article states, will be featured on a season of an upcoming "Real Housewives" show.
In Conclusion
Many celebrities have invested into franchising with great success. Franchising allows celebrities to diversify their income sources and generate return on investment over time.
From quick serve restaurants to fitness studios and beauty spas, entrepreneurial individuals today from all walks of life have the ability to capitalize on consumer trends to create and own successful franchise ventures. If you are looking for an opportunity to own your own business asset, now may be a great time to invest into the world of franchising.