7 Most Brilliant Franchise Founders

Henry and Richard Bloch -- H&R Block

The Bloch Brothers came up with an idea to start a family accounting business in 1955 after their return from WWII. Kansas City and New York were the first two places where the IRS decided to stop income tax preparation services and the brothers decided to capitalize.  The Blochs turn out to be the front-men for the operation, emerging on nationwide television commercials beginning in 1972 to show their personal uprightness and sincere, Midwestern style. Subsequently, Richard was diagnosing fatally with lung cancer and went on to beat the disease.  His survival motivated the two brothers to devote their lives to helping others fight cancer.

H&R Block Tax Services has gone on to serve over 20 million clients through 12,500 locations worldwide.  At present the company provides a full range of software, online, and in-office tax solutions, combined with personalized financial advice.  H&R Block is also the only “seasonal business” to appear on the Fortune 500 list.