Corporate layoffs are rising – but for many, it’s a turning point. Learn why now may be the best time to buy a business and take control of your future.
Corporate giants are trimming teams faster than ever – and the ripple effects are everywhere. Target recently laid off 1,800 employees, Meta let go of 600, Starbucks cut 1,000 and UPS announced a staggering 48,000 layoffs.
For professionals who’ve built their careers around stability, these headlines hit hard. But behind the uncertainty 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, a Senior Franchise Advisor here at 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 built something of my own instead?”
The great corporate wake-up call
For decades, the corporate ladder was sold as a guarantee – climb high enough, and you’ll be safe. But the past 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 driving 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 now is the time to consider buying a franchise
For anyone sitting on the sidelines, wondering if this is the right time – the answer is “yes.”
“Timing matters, and right now, several market conditions make franchising especially attractive,” Anthony said.
- Corporate instability has pushed many to seek income independence.
- Access to capital remains strong – interest rates are stabilizing and lenders are actively supporting franchise investments.
- Fast-growing industries like home services, senior care and wellness are booming, even in uncertain economies.
“While others are waiting for the economy to settle, smart operators are building ownership and equity right now,” he said.
From structure to control: Why franchising fits former corporate pros
If you’ve built a career in corporate, you already have something most new entrepreneurs don’t – leadership experience, process management skills and strategic thinking. The key difference? 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 what so many professionals crave after years of leadership changes and instability. With the right franchise, you can turn your experience into something that grows equity, income and confidence – not anxiety.
Turning a layoff into a launchpad
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.
His advice for first-time business owners:
- 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: Sidekick exists to reduce risk and match you with franchises designed for your personality, skillset 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.
People don’t come to us for a franchise – they come for freedom
At Sidekick, we know people don’t come to us because they want a franchise. They come because they want what franchising can do for their life:
- Freedom from the 9-5 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 why we’re here. We simplify every step of the process, matching you with vetted, high-performing brands and expert guidance that keeps risk low and clarity high.
Because business ownership doesn’t have to be risky. 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 call with a Sidekick 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.
