Entrepreneur Magazine released its 39^th annual Franchise 500 list and we can proudly report that Dunkin’ Donuts continues to enjoy recognition as one of the country’s best franchises, coming in at #3 on the list. For the first time in almost 20 years, McDonalds topped the ticket, edging out 7-Eleven, which has owned the #1 spot for the past few years running. The ratings consider these 5 pillars of franchising: costs & fees, size & growth, support, brand strength, and financial strength & stability.  With more and more stories in the news about paid sick leave mandates being adopted in cities and states around the country, it is important to note that the 20 largest employers in the country now provide some sort of paid sick and family leave. Home improvement giant Lowe’s was the last of the top 20 to join the club last week.