The federal government shutdown now resolved, SBA loan programs are fully operational again. Franchisees are finally free to resume applying for SBA-backed financing. Great news for the franchise industry which was in a standstill for over a month.
Yet, with an estimated $5.3 billion SBA-backed loans frozen during this period, SBA will take some time to clear out the backlog of applications.
This is our first weekly newsletter, where we highlight three notable franchise expansions from this week and introduce three emerging brands worth watching.
Each week, you'll receive a no-fluff rundown of the latest franchise developments. Stay tuned.
Perspire Sauna Studio continues to expand rapidly, with nearly 100 open studios nationwide and 275 franchise licenses already awarded.
The brand’s focus on infrared sauna therapy and health recovery has positioned it as a leader in the wellness franchising space.
Perspire is now targeting key metropolitan markets and actively seeking multi-unit and multi-brand operators to meet rising consumer demand for accessible wellness experiences.
Scenthound has signed a 20-unit agreement to expand into the Raleigh, North Carolina and Richmond, Virginia markets with franchisee Dr. Jaime Pickett, a licensed veterinarian and experienced multi-unit operator.
The deal continues the brand’s rapid growth in the dog wellness niche, combining professional veterinary expertise with a recurring-revenue grooming model.
This highlights how pet-care concepts are moving beyond grooming into broader wellness platforms with strong multi-unit backing.
Hawaiian Bros Island Grill has signed a 34-unit development agreement covering North Carolina, West Central Georgia and North Alabama, marking one of the brand’s biggest multi-unit deals to date.
The expansion will be led by MRCO, a second-generation, experienced multi-brand operator, which gives extra credibility to the growth plan.
For prospective franchisees, this is a signal that Hawaiian-style fast casual is scaling into new U.S. regions with serious development partners behind it.
Hawaiian Bros Island Grill is a fast-casual restaurant franchise serving Hawaiian plate lunches, featuring marinated meats, rice, and macaroni salad in a tropical-themed environment.
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Scenthound offers dog grooming and wellness services, focusing on maintaining dogs' hygiene and health through regular grooming and care.
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Perspire Sauna Studio offers infrared sauna sessions, promoting relaxation, detoxification, and overall wellness for clients seeking therapeutic benefits.
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Green + The Grain is a fast-casual restaurant focused on fresh, healthy, and customizable salads, grain bowls, and smoothies, promoting a nutritious lifestyle through wholesome eating.
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Hydrogen Fitness offers a personalized fitness experience with cutting-edge equipment, individual training plans, and a focus on functional strength and overall wellness.
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JunkCo+ offers full-service junk removal for residential and commercial properties. Their professional teams handle the disposal, recycling, and donation of unwanted items.
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KEEP READING
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