In recent decades, franchising has grown increasingly popular and widespread. Sales from franchises in the United States more than doubled during the 1980s, the period of the most extensive growth for this creative form of business. Especially prevalent in the retail sector, businesses where franchising has established a strong presence include fast-food outlets, convenience stores, automobile rental agencies, and service stations.

近几十年来，专卖店日渐普及并受到广泛的欢迎。20世纪80年代是这种富于创造性的行业发展幅度最大的时期，美国专卖店的销售量增加了一倍多。专卖店中占有很高比重的行业包括快餐店、便民商店、汽车租赁机构，以及加油站等，零售业尤其普遍。

(短文节选,本篇始于：开间专卖店)