Building Buzz: Get the Rulers Out

As PR execs brace for 2004, what are the hot (read: cool) niche businesses that may need a little PR oomph to help get the message out? A special supplement to The Wall Street
Journal on December 15, titled "Franchise Fever," handicapped the top 25 franchises and their chances of becoming "the next big thing." Here's a sample to show the various types
of businesses that may shine in '04.

  • Airbag Service International: Replaces car air bags
  • Black American Income Tax Service: Ethnic Tax Service
  • Geeks on Call: On-site computer solutions
  • Itex: Business barter
  • It's just Lunch: Dating Service
  • 1-800-Got-Junk?: Junk removal
  • Parmasters: Indoor Golf training centers
  • Pump it Up: Backyard inflatables for parties
  • Save-it Now: Bulk purchasing for businesses
  • We The People: Legal-document services