Smart investment, real impact: Why you should own staffing a franchise
Thinking about trading your current job for the opportunity to own a business that makes an impact and has greater flexibility yet still has the earning potential you’re seeking? Take a good look at Express Employment Professionals. Express has been ranked the #1 staffing franchise by Entrepreneur magazine for 14 years in a row, thanks to industry-leading sales, outstanding Franchise Owner support and better work-life balance.
Keep reading to learn how the Express personnel franchise cost combines with award-winning support and the chance to give back to make this staffing franchise a smart choice and a strong contender in your search.
What is a staffing franchise?
A staffing (or personnel) franchise works with local businesses that have open positions and matches them with local job seekers that have the skills and experience needed. An Express personnel services franchise offers a wide range of opportunities — from temporary to full time — across a variety of industries. There will always be a demand for staffing services because there will always be people looking for work and companies looking to fill open positions.
How much does an Express personnel franchise cost?
Express is considered a lower-investment franchise opportunity, thanks to its initial investment amount and open market availability across the United States. We also recently earned the #8 spot out of 100 on Entrepreneur’s 2025 Top Franchises for Less Than $150,000 list. The initial investment range for a new Express office is $131,700 to $213,000. If you’re looking to jumpstart your business, you can also purchase an established Express office through our resales program. The cost of a resale location varies depending upon availability. Regardless of the type of office you choose, you will need to have a net worth of at least $250K and liquid capital of at least $200K (cash, 401(k), rollover or business/home equity loan).
How much money can I make?
The ability to earn the money you want is always an important factor when evaluating any new business venture. Express is a proven opportunity that’s repeatedly won top honors for its growth potential and financial performance:
- $1M AUV* for first-year offices
- $5.7M AUV* for offices open over five years
Can I make an impact as an Express Franchise Owner?
Absolutely. The benefits of owning an Express personnel services franchise go far beyond your bank account. Our Franchise Owners love the traditional business hours that give them more flexibility and more time to spend with friends and family. They also love the opportunity that Express creates to help people in the community find meaningful work. “It gave me the work-life balance that I sought and the benefits of business ownership,” says Franchise Owner Tracy Thompson. “But it’s also really helpful to me to be able to help people — help them find their next job opportunity and hopefully change their life.”
Are there any incentives to ownership?
As an Express personnel Franchise Owner, you can get help with the initial cost of ownership by participating in the Fast Track program, earning back up to 100% of the $40K franchise fee with successful completion. Get $20K back when you bill 16 clients in one week or achieve a $65K gross margin in your first 26 weeks of business. Do both and you’ll hit Double Fast Track, earning back your entire $40K franchise fee. That’s up to $40K to put back into your new business. It’s also a great way to enhance your ROI potential while giving your new office a strong start at the same time.
We’re also proud to offer a 50% discount on the initial franchise fee to veterans — a savings of $20K.
Who makes a good Express personnel services Franchise Owner?
You don’t need any staffing industry experience to become an Express Franchise Owner, but a background in sales or client services is preferred. We’ve found that high-energy people who are natural leaders tend to do well in this industry. This concept isn’t for absentee owners, so you should be ready to work hands on in your new business daily.
“If you’re thinking about buying an Express franchise, know that you’re going to get all the support you need to start a business,” says Express Franchise Owner Zach Daffin. Express provides ongoing, award-winning support from Day 1, from training to back-office support and help with digital and social media marketing.
How can I learn more?
If you’re ready to take a closer look at the Express franchise opportunity, just fill out the form below. A member of our Franchise Development Team will contact you with next steps. Don’t wait — now is the perfect time to make your business ownership dreams a reality.
* For territories open more than 60 months, average sales in 2024 were $5,764,669. First-year offices averaged $1,098,880 annual sales according to Item 19 in the Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD).