50 Most Successful Small Businesses to Start in America

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5. Breweries
> Establishment growth, 2017 to 2021: +46.0%
> Total establishments, 2021: 4,825
> Total employees, 2021: 81,483
> Avg. annual pay, 2021: $48,516

There has been a significant shift in consumer preferences towards craft beer and unique flavor profiles. Consumers are increasingly seeking high-quality, locally brewed beers with distinct characteristics, leading to higher demand for breweries that can offer a diverse range of craft beers to cater to the evolving tastes of consumers. Over the past few years, the number of businesses in the industry rose 46.0% from 3,305 in 2017 to 4,825 in 2021.

Also, the breweries industry offers attractive entrepreneurial opportunities, particularly for individuals passionate about craft beer. Favorable regulations, such as the easing of licensing requirements and the availability of specialized brewing equipment, have encouraged aspiring brewers to start their own breweries. The combination of entrepreneurial spirit and supportive regulations has contributed to the growth of the industry.

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4. Distilleries
> Establishment growth, 2017 to 2021: +49.6%
> Total establishments, 2021: 1,171
> Total employees, 2021: 19,068
> Avg. annual pay, 2021: $67,260

There has been a significant rise in consumer interest in craft spirits, driven by a desire for unique, high-quality, and locally produced alcoholic beverages. Consumers are seeking artisanal spirits with distinct flavors and production methods, which has led to a surge in demand for products from distilleries. Over the past few years, the number of businesses in the industry rose 49.6% from 783 in 2017 to 1,171 in 2021.

Also, the distilleries industry presents attractive entrepreneurial opportunities for individuals passionate about spirits and distilling. Favorable regulations, including the easing of licensing requirements and the growth of craft spirits legislation, have created a conducive environment for aspiring distillers to start their own operations. This has led to an increase in the number of distilleries.

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3. General Freight Trucking, Long-Distance, Truckload
> Establishment growth, 2017 to 2021: +53.9%
> Total establishments, 2021: 57,000
> Total employees, 2021: 573,674
> Avg. annual pay, 2021: $55,213

The rapid growth of e-commerce has driven the demand for long-distance truckload transportation services. As online shopping continues to gain popularity, there is a greater need for efficient and reliable transportation of goods from distribution centers to consumers across the country. General freight trucking, long-distance, truckload companies play a crucial role in meeting this demand by providing timely and cost-effective delivery services. The number of businesses in the industry rose 53.9% from 37,029 in 2017 to 57,000 in 2021, far greater than the national business establishment growth of 3.7%.

Another factor behind growth in the industry may be expansion of fleet capacity to meet the growing demand for long-distance truckload services. This expansion includes adding new trucks and trailers to their fleets, investing in advanced logistics technologies, and hiring additional drivers and staff. Increased fleet capacity has allowed these companies to take on more shipments and fulfill the rising demand.

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2. Advertising Material Distribution Services
> Establishment growth, 2017 to 2021: +73.1%
> Total establishments, 2021: 1,246
> Total employees, 2021: 10,599
> Avg. annual pay, 2021: $93,216

Businesses have been allocating more funds to marketing and advertising activities to reach their target audiences effectively. This has resulted in a higher demand for advertising material distribution services, which deliver promotional materials, such as brochures, flyers, and product samples, to targeted locations and demographics. Over the past few years, the number of businesses in the industry rose 73.1% from 720 in 2017 to 1,246 in 2021.

Also, advertising material distribution services have improved their distribution networks and logistics capabilities to meet the growing demand. They have invested in advanced tracking systems, efficient delivery routes, and optimized warehousing and storage facilities. These enhancements have allowed them to provide reliable and timely distribution services, attracting more clients and supporting industry growth.

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1. Mobile Food Services
> Establishment growth, 2017 to 2021: +88.2%
> Total establishments, 2021: 10,134
> Total employees, 2021: 26,594
> Avg. annual pay, 2021: $28,010

The demand for food trucks has been driven by shifting consumer preferences towards convenience, variety, and unique dining experiences. Consumers increasingly seek out diverse and innovative food options, and mobile food services provide a platform for food entrepreneurs to offer a wide range of cuisines and flavors in a convenient and accessible manner. Over the past few years, the number of businesses in the industry rose 88.2% from 5,386 in 2017 to 10,134 in 2021.

One other factor behind growth in the industry may be urbanization and population density. The growth of urban areas and increasing population density have created a favorable environment for mobile food services. Urban dwellers often have busy lifestyles and limited time for traditional sit-down dining experiences. Mobile food services cater to this demographic by providing quick and accessible food options, especially in locations such as office complexes, parks, and busy street corners.