ATLANTA, GA--(Marketwire - Apr 15, 2011) - Franchise Direct (www.FranchiseDirect.com) has published its annual ranking of the Top 100 Global Franchises. Their third-annual list and report provides a definitive assessment of international franchising. There is no sign that American franchises are stalling their international growth this year. In fact, Franchise Direct's Top 100 proves just how integral a global presence is for the leading franchises.
One of the most striking elements of the Franchise Direct Top 100 is the change at the top of the list. McDonald's, which was the world's top franchise for the last two years, has been overtaken by Subway. The hugely-popular sandwich franchise has leapfrogged the Golden Arches after becoming the franchise with the most units worldwide, as well as launching new environmentally-friendly restaurants. In spite of being dethroned by Subway, McDonald's continues to enjoy huge growth as it implements a more health-conscious menu.
The Top 100 report spotlights one of the world's most unheralded growth markets for franchising: Brazil. Franchise expansion in China and India receives much publicity, but Brazil's large population, rising middle class and infrastructural redevelopment make it an ideal place for franchise expansion.
As for the franchise scene in China, the report explores a sector that is poised for unexpected growth in Asia. While American food franchises have invested heavily in China over the last decade, automotive franchises could be a perfect fit for the country and its 1.3 billion citizens. Car sales have exploded in China as consumers there receive more disposable income. Automotive franchises, including the four listed in Top 100, are certain to capitalize on this trend in the coming year. The Top 100 list also shows the growing stature of franchises based outside of America, with 16 foreign franchises cracking the list.
The Franchise Direct Top 100 Global Franchises again offers the most comprehensive of examination of international franchising available today. If you're looking to inform yourself on the latest trends in international franchising, it's worth a read.
About Franchise Direct: Franchise Direct (www.franchisedirect.com) is one of the world's leading portals for franchise and business opportunities. Started as a single website for the promotion of franchises in the US market in 1998, Franchise Direct now operates a suite of eight multilingual sites targeting North America and Europe. Their American center is in Atlanta, Georgia and they can be contacted on 1-866-325-9830.
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