Why Opening a Franchise Should Be Your New Year’s Resolution

2025 is here, and many of us are setting resolutions to make this year better than the last. We often aim high, hitting the gym, traveling more, or spending quality time with loved ones. But what if this year’s resolution could change your life for generations? If you’ve ever dreamed of running your own business, there’s no better way to turn that dream into reality than by opening a franchise.

Be Your Own Boss Without Starting from Scratch

Starting a business from the ground up comes with countless challenges. With a franchise, you’re investing in a proven business model. You receive a playbook for success, along with ongoing training and operational support. The franchise’s established reputation, marketing systems, and resources allow you to skip the steep learning curve of independent entrepreneurship.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, approximately 31.1% of independent businesses close within two years, and up to 70% don’t survive beyond their 10th year. However, franchised businesses offer a significant advantage. A 2021 report from Oxford Economics found that franchises generate 1.8 times higher sales and create 2.3 times as many jobs as independently owned businesses. The franchisor’s support sets you up for sustainable, long-term success.

“I’ve always been a business owner. - What franchising has done for me is given me the tools I needed to work in this type of business without having to create everything myself and that is invaluable.” — Bill Walenda, The Little Gym Franchisee

Tap Into a Thriving Market

The youth enrichment industry is thriving, and one standout example is Unleashed Brands, a leader in the space. Unleashed Brands offers an ecosystem of opportunities dedicated to helping kids learn, play, and grow. As families increasingly prioritize activities that nurture their children’s physical, social, and academic development, spending on kids' activities continues to rise. In fact, a recent GOBankingRates survey found that 52% of parents spend over $1,000 per year on kid-related activities, highlighting the strong demand in this sector.

Youth enrichment franchises are multifaceted and recession-resistant, appealing to families who see these services as essential, even in challenging economic climates. Many families engage with multiple franchises to meet their children’s diverse needs. For instance, a Sylvan student may have attended The Little Gym for early development and now spends weekends at Urban Air.

This interconnected network benefits families by providing continuity and variety while positioning franchisees for success. With a proven model capitalizing on the growing demand for youth enrichment, Unleashed Brands sets the standard for innovation and growth in the franchise industry.

“When I retired from the clinical pathology business, I looked for a trend in a business that made people happy. I wanted to be in a family business and watch people have a good time and laugh. - I felt like it is sustainable, and I love the business model” — Donny Carlton, Urban Air Adventure Park Franchisee

Leverage a Support Network

When you join a franchise, you gain access to an industry-expert community. Franchisors provide robust resources, including training programs, marketing strategies, and operational guidance. Franchise owners also benefit from a network of like-minded individuals who share advice, experiences, and best practices. This collaborative environment can be the key to overcoming challenges and unlocking one's full potential as a business owner.

“Becoming a franchisee has always been a little dream,” says Levi Garcia, Class 101 Franchisee. “To be part of a bigger vision and a bigger team is really unique.”

“We love the franchising model because it allows us to do what we love on a daily basis.” —Nick Martinez, The Little Gym Franchisee

Achieve Financial Independence and Generational Wealth

Franchising is not just about professional fulfillment—it’s also a pathway to financial freedom. Owning a franchise allows you to build equity and generate wealth while doing something you’re passionate about. The right franchise can deliver a significant return on investment, creating long-term financial security and even generational wealth for your family.

Make 2025 The Year You Take Control

The new year represents a fresh start and the perfect opportunity to make a decision that will benefit yourself and your family. Opening a franchise is not merely a resolution—it’s a commitment to yourself and your dreams. It’s a chance to grow professionally, achieve financial independence, and positively impact your community.

This New Year, resolve to make a change that could transform your life—not just for 2025, but for years to come.

A Little More About Us…

The Unleashed Brands platform includes Urban Air Adventure ParkSnapologyThe Little GymXP LeagueClass 101Premier Martial Arts, and Sylvan Learning Centers – all youth enrichment franchises. As the parent company, Unleashed Brands was founded to curate and grow the most innovative and profitable business opportunities that help kids learn, play and grow. Over the last 10 years, the team at Unleashed Brands has built a proven platform and know-how for scaling businesses that focus on serving families. All have become first-in-category brands by providing fun, engaging, and inspiring experiences that help kids with their No. 1 development goal – to become who they were destined to be. To speak with one of our franchise experts and learn more about our children’s business opportunities, simply fill out this form and an Unleashed Brands representative will be in touch shortly.