HOTWORX Surges to No. 58 in Entrepreneur's 2026 Franchise Rankings
HOTWORX®, the innovative 24-hour infrared fitness studio franchise, has made a remarkable jump to No. 58 on Entrepreneur magazine's prestigious 2026 Franchise 500® list. This achievement is evidence of the brand's incredible growth trajectory and is a dramatic leap from its previous ranking of No. 95 in 2025. Just eight years since its inception in 2017, HOTWORX is not only solidifying its place within the fitness industry but is also expanding its presence globally.
Stephen Smith, the Founder and CEO of HOTWORX, expressed pride in the ranking, attributing the recognition to the robust franchise model and the enthusiasm of franchisees. He noted, “This recognition speaks to the strength of our model and the passion of our franchisees. We've always known that infrared training would change the way people think about fitness.” The franchise has built a strong community of over 250,000 members, providing a unique fitness experience that combines infrared heat with personalized workouts.
The Evaluation Process of Franchise Excellence
Entrepreneur’s Franchise 500® is regarded as the most comprehensive franchise ranking worldwide, setting the benchmark for evaluating franchise opportunities. The ranking process considers various factors, including:
- - Unit Growth: The increase in the number of locations over time.
- - Financial Strength: The overall financial health of the franchise system.
- - Franchisee Support: The level of support provided to franchisees.
- - Brand Power: Recognition and reputation in the market.
- - Operational and Marketing Systems: The effectiveness of the systems in place for running the franchise.
Jason Feifer, Editor in Chief of Entrepreneur, remarked, “For 47 years, the Franchise 500 has been the gold standard for identifying franchise excellence. This year's ranking proves that the best brands don't just survive changing markets; they thrive in them.”
Recognition Beyond the Franchise 500
In addition to being ranked No. 58 on the Franchise 500, HOTWORX received several national accolades in 2025, including:
- - No. 15 for Fastest-Growing Franchises
- - No. 57 for Top Brands for Multi-Unit Owners
- - No. 75 for Top Franchises for Veterans
This recognition reflects the brand’s adaptability and the increasing consumer demand for efficient, impactful fitness solutions. The unique model of 24-hour access, innovative workouts, and patented infrared sauna technology enhances the wellness journey for users, making HOTWORX a go-to option for fitness enthusiasts.
A Differentiated Fitness Approach
HOTWORX is built around offering high-quality fitness solutions that cater to individuals seeking effective workouts in today’s fast-paced environment. Their patented “3D Training” method combines heat, infrared energy, and exercise to deliver a potent fitness experience. Members can engage in a variety of workouts that include both 30-minute isometric sessions and 15-minute high-intensity interval training (HIIT).
The HOTWORX experience is made even more accessible through the HOTWORX Burn Off app, allowing members to book their sessions easily and ensuring that fitness is convenient for everyone.
As HOTWORX gears up for continued growth, the combination of a strong franchise model and an ever-expanding member base suggests promising opportunities moving forward. With the increased emphasis on health and wellness, HOTWORX appears well-positioned to continue attracting attention in the increasingly competitive fitness market.
To explore the complete list of the Franchise 500 rankings, visit
www.entrepreneur.com/franchise500. For further information on HOTWORX or to find a studio location near you, explore their website at
hotworx.net. If you’re interested in franchising opportunities with HOTWORX, more details can be found on the same site.