Why Layoffs Are Increasing Business Ownership

Corporate giants are trimming teams faster than ever and the ripple effects are showing up everywhere.

UPS eliminated 48,000 positions in 2025 and is cutting up to 30,000 more in 2026 as it automates its network and pulls back from Amazon deliveries. Starbucks has cut hundreds of corporate roles across multiple rounds this year as part of its ongoing turnaround plan. Meta, Target and dozens of other household names have made similar moves.

Nationally, employers eliminated more than 1.2 million jobs in 2025 alone, the highest total since the 2008 financial crisis, and the cuts have continued into 2026.

For professionals who've built their careers around stability, headlines like these hit hard. But behind the uncertainty of corporate layoffs lies something unexpected: opportunity.

"Over the past year, I've seen a sharp increase in professionals – especially mid- to senior-level executives – exploring franchise ownership after corporate layoffs or burnout," said Anthony Hudson, Executive Franchise Advisor at Franchise Sidekick. "Many of them are realizing that the traditional 'safe' path isn't so safe anymore."

Instead of jumping back into another unpredictable corporate role, more people are asking a bigger question: “What if I bought a business of my own instead?”

Key takeaways

U.S. employers cut more than 1.2 million jobs in 2025, the highest total since the 2008 financial crisis, with layoffs accelerating further into 2026.
Franchising is projected to grow steadily in 2026, with more than 12,000 new franchise establishments and industry output topping $921 billion.
Home services, senior care and wellness are among the fastest-growing franchise categories, even as corporate layoffs continue.
Buying a franchise gives former corporate professionals structure and control, a combination traditional employment rarely offers.
Franchise Sidekick helps reduce the risk of buying a business by matching you to a franchise owner opportunity built around your goals, budget and lifestyle.

Why are more people waking up to the reality of corporate employment?

For decades, the corporate ladder was sold as a guarantee. Climb high enough, and you'll be safe. But the last few years have proven that even top performers can be let go with a five-minute Zoom call and two weeks of severance.

That realization is fueling a new kind of ambition, one rooted in control, ownership and freedom.

"Franchising is appealing because it blends entrepreneurial freedom with a proven process, lowering the risk of starting from scratch," Anthony said. "People want to take their effort, skill set and leadership experience and invest it into something that rewards them, not just shareholders."

Why is now the right time to buy a business?

For anyone sitting on the sidelines wondering if this is the right time to make a move, the data says yes.

The 2026 Franchising Economic Outlook from the International Franchise Association projects the number of U.S. franchise establishments will grow to roughly 845,000 units, with more than 12,000 new franchised businesses opening this year. Franchise output is expected to rise to $921.4 billion, and franchise employment is projected to grow by more than 150,000 jobs.

Home services, senior care and wellness are called out as among the fastest-growing categories, even as broader corporate layoffs continue.

"Timing matters, and right now, several market conditions make franchising especially attractive," Anthony said.

Corporate instability has pushed many professionals to seek income independence outside traditional employment.
Access to capital remains strong, with lenders actively supporting franchise investments as rates stabilize.
Fast-growing industries like home services, senior care and wellness are booming, even in an uncertain economy.

"While others are waiting for the economy to settle, smart operators are building ownership and equity right now," Anthony continued.

Why is franchising a fit for former corporate pros?

If you've built a career in corporate, you already have something most first-time entrepreneurs don't: leadership experience, process management skills and strategic thinking. The key difference is control.

"People coming from corporate backgrounds are used to structure, but not control," Anthony said. "Franchising offers both. You get a proven playbook and support system, but you're in charge of how fast you grow and how you manage your day-to-day."

That balance between predictability and autonomy is exactly what so many professionals crave after years of reorganizations and layoffs. With the right franchise, you can turn your experience into something that builds equity, income and confidence, not anxiety.

How do you turn a layoff into a launch pad?

If you've recently been laid off, it's normal to feel uncertain. But that uncertainty can become the push you need to reclaim control of your life.

Take it from Nina Hunter, owner of Voda Cleaning & Restoration of Sarasota, Florida. After being suddenly laid off from her corporate job, she had a choice to make.

"You go through all of the emotions," Nina said. "There's doubt, wondering, 'What could you have done better?' But then you ask, 'What am I going to do next? Do I want to invest in another company where I don't know what the outcome's going to be, where they can determine my fate? Or am I going to lean into myself and start my own business?'"

It's all about mindset.

"A layoff can feel like a setback, but it's often the nudge toward freedom many people need," Anthony said.

How do you buy a business the right way?

For first-time franchise owners, Anthony recommends a clear, deliberate process:

Don't rush. Explore different franchise models and industries that fit your goals.
Get clear on your "why." Flexibility, income or purpose will shape your direction.
Work with experts. An experienced advisor exists to reduce risk and match you with franchises designed for your personality, skill set and goals.
Think long-term. This isn't just about replacing a paycheck, it's about building an asset and creating control over your life.

"This is your sign to break free from the golden handcuffs keeping you stuck in something you hate," Anthony said.

Why do people come to Franchise Sidekick looking for freedom?

At Sidekick, we know people don't come to us because they want a franchise. They come because they want what franchise ownership can do for their life:

Freedom from the 9-to-5 grind
A way to build wealth on their own terms
A meaningful path forward that doesn't feel like a gamble

We also know the pain points that stop most people before they even start. You're overwhelmed by the thousands of options out there. You don't know where to begin or who to trust.

That's where our team comes in. Buying a business doesn't have to mean doing it alone, and it doesn't have to mean guessing. Our services are free to you as the buyer, and we help simplify every step of the process. We match you with vetted, high-performing brands and expert guidance that keeps risk low, so the business you choose actually fits your lifestyle, your financial commitments and your goals.

Because business ownership doesn't have to be risky – and in today's economy, it might just be the safest move you can make.

Ready to take control of your future?

"I would say start the journey," Nina said. "There's no penalty for doing research. And if you have an advisor, they can help you navigate. Don't be scared. If you want to invest in yourself, believe in yourself. Otherwise, you're always going to wonder what would have happened if you had just done it. You're doing yourself a disservice if you don't even explore the option."

If you're ready to turn uncertainty into opportunity, schedule a free, 10-minute call with an advisor today. We'll help you buy a business that fits your life and goals, so you can build something that's secure, sustainable and yours.

Not ready to talk to an advisor yet? Start with Sidekick SeeThrough

If you're still in research mode, that's a good place to be. Our franchise research platform, Sidekick SeeThrough, lets you explore franchise brands, compare opportunities side by side and read franchisee reviews at your own pace. No pressure, no sales pitch.

It's built for people who want clarity before they commit to a conversation. Explore SeeThrough and create your profile today.

Frequently asked questions about buying a business after a layoff

Is it a good idea to buy a franchise after a layoff?

For many professionals, yes. A layoff often provides both the capital (through severance) and the motivation to pursue business ownership. Franchising offers a proven system and support structure, which can lower the risk compared to starting an independent business from scratch.

How much does it cost to buy a franchise?

Costs vary widely by brand and industry, ranging from under $50,000 for some home-based or service franchises to several hundred thousand dollars for retail or food concepts. A franchise advisor can help match your budget to viable options.

What industries are growing the fastest in franchising right now?

Home services, senior care and wellness are among the fastest-growing franchise categories in 2026, driven by steady consumer demand and demographic trends.

Do I need business experience to become a franchise owner?

No. Many successful franchise owners come from corporate backgrounds with no prior business ownership experience. Franchising provides training, operational systems and ongoing support designed for first-time owners.

How do I know which franchise is the right fit for me?

The right fit depends on your budget, goals, skill set and lifestyle preferences. Working with a franchise advisor or using a self-serve research tool like SeeThrough can help you compare brands and narrow your options before committing.

How long does it take to buy a business and open a franchise?

Timelines vary, but most franchise buyers spend a few weeks to a few months researching and vetting brands, followed by several more months for financing, training and setup before opening.