Social Gaming, Boutique Fitness and More: Should You Jump on These Franchise Trends in 2026?
Feb 20, 2026 - Blog by Goldstein Law Firm |As we do every year, we are seeing several new franchise concepts vying for prospective franchisees’ attention in 2026. These include social gaming and boutique fitness franchises, among others. If you are thinking about buying a franchise, should you consider a new concept in one of these trending industries? Here are some key considerations from national franchise lawyer Jeffrey M. Goldstein.
Insights from the IFA’s 2025 Year-in-Review
Feb 13, 2026 - Blog by Goldstein Law Firm |The International Franchise Association (IFA) recently published its 2025 year-in-review. Titled, “2025: A Year That Redefined the Future of Franchising,” the report takes a (mostly) month-by-month look back at some of the IFA’s most notable activities over the past year. Here, franchise attorney Jeffrey M. Goldstein shares some of his thoughts on the IFA’s report, as well as some additional insights on the year that was.
7 Key Considerations if Your Franchise is Up for Renewal in 2026
Jan 30, 2026 - Blog by Goldstein Law Firm |Most franchise agreements last two or three years before they expire. This is not a long time. In fact, for many franchisees, it is nowhere near enough time to build a business that allows them to recoup their initial investment—much less turn a profit. As a result, renewals can be essential, and franchisees whose agreements are up for renewal must ensure they make informed decisions focused on the future. Learn more from national franchise attorney Jeffrey M. Goldstein.
Franchise Times “Fast & Serious” List Ranks Fastest-Growing Franchises in 2026
Jan 23, 2026 - Blog by Goldstein Law Firm |The Franchise Times recently released its “Fast & Serious” list for 2026. According to the publication, this list ranks the “fast-growing franchise systems that also have staying power, as an antidote to multiple other rankings that include too many one-year wonders.” Here are some insights on the list from national franchise lawyer Jeffrey M. Goldstein.
Where Does the American Franchise Act Stand in 2026?
Jan 16, 2026 - Blog by Goldstein Law Firm |Last October, we published an article discussing the introduction of the American Franchise Act in the U.S. House of Representatives. As we said then, the bill seeks to codify the joint employer standard established by the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) in 2020, which prevents franchisors from being classified as co-employers of franchisees’ workers in the vast majority of circumstances. So, where does the American Franchise Act stand in 2026? National franchisee attorney Jeffrey M. Goldstein explains.
2025 Year in Review: Key Takeaways for Buying a Franchise in 2026
Dec 31, 2025 - Blog by Goldstein Law Firm |It’s time for our annual year in review. Each year, we publish numerous articles on our blog—and 2025 was no exception. Throughout the year, we published dozens of articles that provide important information and insights for both prospective and current franchisees. Here, national franchisee attorney Jeffrey M. Goldstein takes a look back at some of the highlights.
What if You Have a Better Idea that Your Franchisor Refuses to Approve?
Dec 26, 2025 - Blog by Goldstein Law Firm |As a franchisee, you are responsible for building a successful business with the support—and within the confines—of the franchise model. This means that while you have the opportunity to leverage your franchisor’s experience and investment in its branding and systems, you are also required to play by the rules. So, what happens when you have a better idea than your franchisor? National franchise attorney Jeffrey M. Goldstein explains.
Why Prospective Franchisees Need to Review the Franchise Agreement (and Not Just Item 17 of the FDD)
Dec 19, 2025 - Blog by Goldstein Law Firm |As a prospective franchisee, it is critical to thoroughly review the Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD) for all of the franchise opportunities on your short list. The FDD contains a wealth of information—including information that franchisors are required (but may not necessarily want) to disclose. Once you decide on the franchise opportunity you want to pursue, you should have the FDD reviewed by an experienced franchise lawyer as well.
Additional Insights on IFA President’s Tips for Prospective Franchisees
Nov 28, 2025 - Blog by Goldstein Law Firm |The President and CEO of the International Franchise Association (IFA), Matt Haller, recently published an article discussing the advice he gives when people ask him whether they should buy a franchise. As he correctly notes, while buying a franchise can be a profitable investment, “that doesn’t mean franchising is right for everyone, or that every brand is right for you.” In the article, Haller shares his top three tips for prospective franchisees. Here, national franchisee lawyer Jeffrey M. Goldstein shares some additional insights on each of these three important considerations.
Should You Buy Into a “Breakout” Franchise Brand?
Nov 21, 2025 - Blog by Goldstein Law Firm |As we discussed last month, the Franchise Times recently released its “Top 400” list for 2025. Along with the list itself, the Franchise Times also published a handful of articles highlighting certain categories of franchises that made (or almost made) the list. One of these articles highlights five “breakout brands” that have reported significant sales growth over the past year. If you are thinking about buying a franchise, should you include a “breakout brand” on your short list? Here are some key considerations from national franchise attorney Jeffrey M. Goldstein.
