Express Employment Professionals Expands Franchise Footprint Amid Leadership Transition

Event summary

  • Express Employment Professionals added 54 new franchise locations and 5 resale agreements in 2025, bringing the total to nearly 900 worldwide.
  • The company hosted 12 Discovery Days, resulting in 38 new franchisees and 5 existing owners expanding their portfolios.
  • Express entered seven new territories in 2025, including Raleigh, NC, Greenville, SC, and Naples, FL.
  • The organization experienced the passing of both co-founders, William H. Stoller and Bob Funk Sr., during 2025.
  • Over 5,000 individuals expressed interest in becoming Express franchise owners, demonstrating sustained confidence in the brand.

The big picture

Express Employment Professionals' expansion demonstrates the resilience of the franchise model within the staffing industry, which remains crucial for businesses navigating ongoing labor shortages. The company's continued growth, despite the loss of its founders, suggests a well-established system and strong franchisee commitment. However, the high level of franchise interest also indicates potential competition and the need for Express to maintain its brand differentiation.

What we're watching

Succession Risk
The continued success of Express will depend on the ability of existing management to maintain momentum and brand consistency following the loss of its co-founders, a risk that could impact franchisee confidence.
Franchise Saturation
With nearly 900 locations, Express will need to carefully manage expansion to avoid market saturation and ensure profitability for individual franchisees.
Labor Market Dynamics
The staffing industry's performance is intrinsically linked to broader economic conditions and labor market trends; Express's growth will be affected by the pace of recovery and shifts in employer hiring practices.