Health and wellness has become one of franchising’s most resilient and rapidly expanding sectors — and the forces driving that growth show no signs of slowing. As medical costs rise and consumers increasingly prioritize prevention over treatment, demand for accessible, results-oriented health and fitness services continues to build. The industry now ranks as the third largest in franchising by total establishments, and it is still growing.
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Output is projected to reach $66.4 billion this year, with unit count expected to surpass 99,000 — a 2.1% year-over-year increase. What’s notable is the quality of that growth: even as discretionary spending faces pressure, consumers are gravitating toward value-driven, outcome-focused concepts rather than pulling back entirely. Brands are adapting accordingly, moving toward leaner, smaller-format models with lower overhead and more diversified revenue streams. The result is a sector that is not only expanding but becoming more operationally efficient and accessible for franchisees at every investment level.