Randy James, president of the Utah office of FranNet, said he expects several segments of the franchise industry to be hot in the next two to five years.

Fitness and weight loss, including gyms that cater just to men or to women and businesses that offer personal training.

Business services, offering anything a small-business owner might need to run his operation.

Home improvement, both on the retail and service side.

Basic consumer services, like home cleaning and dry cleaning.

Services for the elderly.

Financial services and consulting, including tax preparation and sales training.

Human resources staffing and consulting.

Unique and new niche businesses, including everything from FiltaFry, which filters cooking oil for restaurants, to Sweet Beginnings, a wedding-planning franchise.