50 Most Successful Small Businesses to Start in America

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10. Electronic Shopping and Mail-Order Houses
> Establishment growth, 2017 to 2021: +32.8%
> Total establishments, 2021: 55,085
> Total employees, 2021: 734,096
> Avg. annual pay, 2021: $59,048

The rapid growth of e-commerce has been a significant driver for the electronic shopping and mail-order houses industry. Consumers’ preference for online shopping, convenience, and wider product selection has led to a surge in demand for electronic shopping platforms. Over the past few years, the number of businesses in the industry rose 32.8% from 41,490 in 2017 to 55,085 in 2021.

Also, advancements in technology have played a crucial role in the growth of the electronic shopping and mail-order houses industry. Improved website functionality, secure payment gateways, efficient inventory management systems, and enhanced logistics solutions have made online shopping more seamless and reliable. These technological advancements have allowed businesses in the industry to offer better services, attract more customers, and scale their operations.

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9. Barber Shops
> Establishment growth, 2017 to 2021: +32.8%
> Total establishments, 2021: 6,838
> Total employees, 2021: 26,118
> Avg. annual pay, 2021: $29,093

There has been a growing emphasis on personal grooming and self-care, leading to increased demand for barber shop services. Consumers are increasingly valuing well-maintained hairstyles, beard grooming, and overall grooming experiences. This trend has fueled the demand for barber shops as individuals seek professional services to achieve their desired look. The number of businesses in the industry rose 32.8% from 5,148 in 2017 to 6,838 in 2021.

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8. General Freight Trucking, Local
> Establishment growth, 2017 to 2021: +33.0%
> Total establishments, 2021: 41,896
> Total employees, 2021: 294,834
> Avg. annual pay, 2021: $47,024

The rise of e-commerce has significantly impacted the demand for local freight trucking services. With the growth of online shopping, there has been a surge in the need for efficient transportation of goods from distribution centers to local customers, leading to growth in the freight trucking industry. Over the past few years, the number of businesses in the industry rose 33.0% from 31,490 in 2017 to 41,896 in 2021.

One other factor behind growth in the industry may be urbanization and population growth. As cities expand, so does the need for goods to be transported within these areas. Local freight trucking companies have capitalized on this trend by offering convenient and cost-effective transportation solutions to businesses and individuals in urban centers.

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7. Tobacco Stores
> Establishment growth, 2017 to 2021: +36.7%
> Total establishments, 2021: 14,512
> Total employees, 2021: 50,153
> Avg. annual pay, 2021: $26,282

Despite growing awareness of the health risks associated with tobacco use, there has been a sustained demand for tobacco products. Factors such as addiction, social habits, and cultural influences contribute to the demand for tobacco products, driving the growth of the tobacco stores industry. The number of businesses in the industry rose 36.7% from 10,618 in 2017 to 14,512 in 2021, among the fastest expansions of any industry.

One other factor behind growth in the industry may be product diversification with the introduction of various tobacco-related products such as e-cigarettes, vaping devices, and smokeless tobacco. This diversification has expanded the range of offerings in tobacco stores, attracting a broader customer base and contributing to the growth of the industry.

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6. Document Preparation Services
> Establishment growth, 2017 to 2021: +40.7%
> Total establishments, 2021: 5,521
> Total employees, 2021: 39,087
> Avg. annual pay, 2021: $37,565

The growing complexity of legal and administrative procedures, such as immigration, estate planning, and business registrations, has created a higher demand for professional assistance in document preparation. Individuals and businesses seek specialized services to navigate the intricacies of paperwork and ensure compliance with regulations. Over the past few years, the number of businesses in the industry rose 40.7% from 3,923 in 2017 to 5,521 in 2021.

Another factor behind growth in the industry may be entrepreneurial opportunities. The relatively low barrier to entry, compared to other professional services, attracts individuals seeking to establish their own businesses. The availability of such opportunities has contributed to the growth of the industry as more entrepreneurs enter the market.