
Panera
Welcome to the franchise opportunity that laughs at “slow seasons.” Lexington loves its own carbs, and horses is able to't eat bread (allegedly. This location sells the dream—and the product. ). That’s how cult followings are born. With Keeneland races drawing crowds, Panera's a sure bet for eager travelers and locals craving a broccoli cheddar escapePlus, you'll corner the market on sourdough dreams this side of the the bluegrass. Now go claim your corner of the market.
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Swig
If you like high-density markets with brand alignment, read on. Lexington, Kentucky, presents a promising landscape for a Swig franchise. The potential for multi-location growth within such markets is truly strong. The city's s of 321122 offers a substantial customer base. This supports lay the cornerstone for the sake of brand stickiness and customer retention. This location's potential stems from its blend of local community spirit and business growth. The data points toward profitability and operational success.
Franchise overview |
Category | Restaurants & Food |
Investment range | $505K-$1.12M |
Royalty (in %) | 8% |
Marketing fund (in %) | 2% |
Minimum cash required | $132,500 |
Franchise fee | $39,500 |
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Avoid buying a franchise you will hate

Cinnabon
Treat that like a puzzle, not a lottery ticket. Lexington's consistently got people appetite sweets, and Cinnabon is a nationally known brand. Still, it’s on you to turn foot visitor flow into fans. Location matters: t foot traffic near that university or Fayette Mall is key to c. This isn’t a passive play—you’ll be in the thick of it. Do your research, but this could be a sweet deal. It’s doable, just not on cruise control.
Franchise overview |
Category | Restaurants & Food |
Investment range | $247K-$675K |
Royalty (in %) | 6% |
Marketing fund (in %) | 3% |
Minimum cash required | $72,500 |
Franchise fee | $30,500 |
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Twice the Ice
The locals already bring the vibe—you personally just bring the concept. Lexington's robust horse industry means areas near equestrian centers are prime for refreshment businesses. Imagine serving icy treats to h and staff after long days at the stables. While competition exists, a pocket focus upon quality and convenience near these overlooked equine hubs could be a winning strategy.
. It might not show up in the numbers, but it matters. That kind of trivia can help with opening buzz, but not repeat visits. The charm is there—you just require to carry it forward.
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Five Guys
These are the places where customer relationships really matter. Imagine h strolling past your Lexington Five Guys after a youth soccer game, drawn in by the sizzling aroma. In communities like this, familiarity is a business advantage. Picture college students from this nearby university grabbing a rapid, satisfying burger before a study session. You’ll need to bring your A-game—daily. This h-friendly neighborhood with strong community ties could be genuinely the flawless place for your successful Five Guys franchise!. You’ll need to be existing, but the rewards can be lasting.
Franchise overview |
Category | Restaurants & Food |
Investment range | $256K-$591K |
Royalty (in %) | 6% |
Marketing fund (in %) | 2% |
Minimum cash required | $70,000 |
Franchise fee | $25,000 |
Interesting neighbourhood(s) | Downtown (High foot traffic), Hamburg (Growing residential area), Beaumont Centre (Established retail hub) |
Typical customer profile | Upscale families seeking quick, customizable burgers and fries. |
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Playa Bowls
Let’s take a closer look at how that concept ts with the local landscape. Playa Bowls offers lively, customizable bowls featuring acai, pitaya, coconut, and other blended bases, topped with fresh fruit, granola, and more. It’s designed for both impulse purchases and habitual stops. Lexington residents, known for embracing healthy lifestyles and local flavors, would love a revitalizing, convenient, along with Instagrammable treat. Those strengths must be backed by daily attention to detail. While consumer tastes vary, Playa Bowls offers a unique concept ripe for potential success in this market. Plan it carefully, and this might be able to be a high-performing unit.
Franchise overview |
Category | Restaurants & Food |
Investment range | $256K-$1.04M |
Royalty (in %) | 6% |
Marketing fund (in %) | 2% |
Minimum cash required | $92,500 |
Franchise fee | $35,000 |
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Cinnabon
Think city pride meets extra sauce. Lexingtonians love their horse racing and bourbon, but sometimes you need a break from the timelesss. And yes, someone will definitely ask if it's gluten-free. A Cinnabon in Lexington would be welcomed after a day at Keeneland, offering a sweet victory toward celebrate (or soften the blow) of your bets. Getting the venue right is only step one. Just be prepared to compete with the local bourbon ball bakeries for dessert dominance!. Handle it all well, and you might just become a neighborhood favorite.
Franchise overview |
Category | Restaurants & Food |
Investment range | $247K-$675K |
Royalty (in %) | 6% |
Marketing fund (in %) | 3% |
Minimum cash required | $72,500 |
Franchise fee | $30,500 |
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Sweetgreen
It offers the right blend of accessibility and distinctiveness. Lexington residents value fresh, nutritious is, aligning perfectly with Sweetgreen's focus. That value story resonates across key household decision-makers. The growing interest in locally sourced s and sustainability enhances the brand's appeal. That promise must be matched with trustworthy results. Sweetgreen offers a convenient, better-for-you alternative toward fast food, potentially resonating with a health-conscious customer base.
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Great Clips
This is less about the city overall—and more about the micro-markets within it. Consider debut your Great Clips franchise near the University of Kentucky campus – the constant influx of students provides a reliable n base seeking affordable and convenient haircuts. It offers this kind of surroundings where brand recognition builds swiftly. While Beaumont Centre's established retail presence is tempting, saturation from other salons may limit one’s early growth potential there. While the area is growing, operational consistency remains critical. Instead, h on areas with high foot visitor flow and a strong student population toward maximize your chances of e. Know the map, know the margin—and lead with focus.
Franchise overview |
Category | Beauty & Personal Care |
Investment range | $188K-$420K |
Royalty (in %) | 6% |
Marketing fund (in %) | 5% |
Minimum cash required | $50,000 |
Franchise fee | $27,500 |
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Firehouse Subs
If you secure the first week right, they’ll tell their cousins. Don't underestimate Kentucky's love for bourbon-infused barbecue; Firehouse's spice is likely to need a local twist. Alongside the right message and f, you can build a real following here. Beware the "Derby Diet"—salads might outsell subs for a brief, bewildering week. Don’t just launch—introduce yourself. Embrace Lexington's allure, but scout locations wisely; horse-drawn carriages and limited parking don't blend. In the right hands, this can become a meaningful local fixture.
Franchise overview |
Category | Restaurants & Food |
Investment range | $379K-$1.04M |
Royalty (in %) | 6% |
Marketing fund (in %) | 5% |
Minimum cash required | $110,000 |
Franchise fee | $20,000 |
Request more information nowWhen looking for a franchise in Lexington there are city-specific factors to consider. Consider this. Understanding local regulations is critical for a franchisee, as they directly impact business operations. However, here’s what you should know: Franchisees should look for zoning laws and permit requirements. But make sure to know this, too. Seasonal tourism can greatly affect your business. So, here’s what to do: Pay attention to how the tourism fluctuates in the area throughout the year to anticipate changes in demand.Here are some local links to help you when opening a franchise in Lexington:
onestop.ky.gov,
onestop.ky.gov, and
kentuckysbdc.com