From Fries to Fluff: McDonald’s Franchisees Diversify into Luxury Pet Resorts

CHICAGO, IL – In a surprising franchise crossover, a Chicago-area family with a 60-year history operating McDonald’s restaurants is pivoting to a new venture: luxury pet resorts. Bear Family Restaurants has signed a multi-unit agreement with K9 Resorts Luxury Pet Hotel to open eight locations in Cook and Kane counties, signaling a growing trend of diversification within the franchise world and a booming market for premium pet care.

For decades, the Bear family built its reputation on quick service and consistent quality within the fast-food industry. Now, they’re applying those same principles – operational excellence, community focus, and a commitment to customer satisfaction – to a decidedly different clientele: four-legged companions. The family’s new holding company, BFRx Hospitality, reflects this expanded focus.

“We’ve been ingrained in the Chicagoland area for nearly six decades, and partnering with K9 Resorts felt like a natural evolution,” says a representative from BFRx Hospitality. “We recognized a growing demand for high-quality pet care services and saw an opportunity to leverage our operational expertise to create a truly exceptional experience for pets and their owners.”

The Luxury Pet Boom: A Growing Market
The timing of this move is no accident. The pet industry has experienced significant growth in recent years, fueled by a confluence of factors. Increasingly, pets are viewed as integral members of the family, leading owners to spend more on their well-being. This “humanization of pets,” coupled with rising disposable income and a desire for convenience, has created a booming market for premium pet services.

According to the American Pet Products Association (APPA), total U.S. pet industry expenditure reached a record $147 billion in 2023. A significant portion of that spending is directed towards services such as boarding, daycare, grooming, and training. Luxury pet resorts, in particular, are catering to a growing segment of pet owners who are willing to pay a premium for upscale amenities, personalized attention, and a safe, comfortable environment for their beloved companions.

“The demand for luxury pet care has been steadily increasing, particularly in metropolitan areas like Chicago,” says an industry analyst specializing in pet services. “Owners are looking for more than just basic boarding; they want a resort-like experience with spacious accommodations, enrichment activities, and attentive care.”

From Operational Expertise to Paw-sitive Experiences
The transition from fast-food franchising to pet hospitality may seem unusual, but experts believe the Bear family’s operational experience will be a valuable asset. Running a successful McDonald’s franchise requires strong management skills, efficient processes, a focus on cleanliness and hygiene, and a commitment to customer service – all qualities that are directly transferable to the pet care industry.

“The fundamentals of running a successful business are the same, regardless of the industry,” says a franchise consultant. “The Bear family has a proven track record of operational excellence, and that will give them a significant advantage in the competitive pet care market.”

K9 Resorts, with over 50 locations nationwide, provides a structured franchise system, comprehensive training, and ongoing support. This allows franchisees like the Bear family to leverage a proven business model while building a strong local presence.

“We were impressed by K9 Resorts’ commitment to quality, safety, and customer satisfaction,” says the BFRx Hospitality representative. “Their state-of-the-art facilities, enrichment programs, and highly trained staff align perfectly with our values.”

Diversification as a Strategy for Growth
The Bear family’s decision to diversify into the pet care industry reflects a growing trend among franchisees. In today’s dynamic business environment, many operators are looking for ways to mitigate risk, expand their revenue streams, and capitalize on emerging market opportunities. Diversification can be a particularly effective strategy for established franchisees who have a strong operational foundation and a loyal customer base.

“Diversification allows franchisees to leverage their existing expertise and resources while entering new markets,” says a business analyst. “It can also help them build brand recognition and customer loyalty across multiple industries.”

Local Impact and Future Growth
The opening of eight K9 Resorts locations in Cook and Kane counties is expected to have a positive impact on the local economy, creating jobs and generating revenue. The new facilities will offer a range of services, including overnight boarding, daycare, grooming, and training, catering to the needs of pet owners throughout the region.

“We’re excited to bring K9 Resorts’ exceptional pet care services to the Chicago area,” says the BFRx Hospitality representative. “We believe there’s a strong demand for high-quality pet care, and we’re committed to providing a safe, comfortable, and enriching experience for every pet.”

The Bear family’s expansion into the pet care industry is a testament to their entrepreneurial spirit and their commitment to meeting the evolving needs of the community. As the demand for premium pet services continues to grow, BFRx Hospitality is poised to become a leading provider of luxury pet care in the Chicago area, proving that a little pampering can go a long way – for both pets and their owners.