Does it Make Sense for Me to Franchise My Business?

July 18th, 2008

Recently, we’ve had a number of entrepreneurs asking us questions about whether it makes sense to franchise their businesses. While it’s truly something that should be considered on a case by case basis, we thought we’d provide some basic information to aid in the decision-making process.

Reasons why an entrepreneur might consider franchising a business include:

  • Great business model/idea, but a lack of capital or unwillingness to risk one’s own capital
  • Desire to get to scale quickly

Whether the business is successful at franchising depends on a number of factors, among them:

  • Does it generate the steady cash flows necessary to keep both franchisor and franchisee happy?
  • Does the concept resonate with (the right) prospective franchisees?
  • Is the model replicable? Are the systems in place and effective?
  • Will the underlying product/service meet the needs or expectations of the business’ customers, i.e. does the frozen yogurt taste good?

For expert advice on whether you should franchise your business please check out some information on our partner, The Franchise Edge. They’ll provide a free consultation to assess your business’ needs and determine whether franchising is an appropriate fit for your business.

We’d be interested in hearing any thoughts or experiences our users might have about franchising their businesses.

Looking for Lawn Doctor info

July 10th, 2008

I’ve been looking into expanding my small lawn care business by buying a franchise. I’ve seen TruGreen and Scotts Lawn care throughout my service area so I’m sure this territory is closed for those opportunities. I’ve heard a few good things about Lawn Doctor and that they may provide more environmentally friendly options for their clients.

Does anyone have any experience either as a Lawn Doctor franchisee or a customer? I’ve found some information on the web at franchise.com and the lawn doctor website but it’s really more of just an advertisement.

Any feedback would be greatly appreciated.
I’m looking to grow in the Louiville,KY region.
Harold J.

Established Companies Adopting Franchise Model

June 18th, 2008

Interesting blurb on Advantage Rent A Car, which dates back to 1963 (when it was called Three Ninety-Nine Car Rentals), has just recently opened its first franchise location in suburban Memphis, TN.

http://minneapolis.dbusinessnews.com/shownews.php?newsid=160575&type_news=latest

Anyone have any other examples of long-established companies moving to franchising model after sustained success expanding via company-owned stores? One example that comes to mind is La Quinta Inn & Suites, which was founded in 1968 but only began franchising in 2001. Since that time, it has been one of the fasest growing hotel companies.

Any other good examples?

WSI Internet franchisees….

June 2nd, 2008

…are trained and supported to help small to mid-size businesses get online and develop targeted traffic to help thier businesses grow.

Driveway Impressions Franchise

May 23rd, 2008

Scott Hind of Driveway Impressions talks about who would make an ideal candidate for a Driveway Impressions franchisee.




For more information on becoming a Driveway Impressions franchise owner click here.

Older Workers Losing Jobs - CNN.com Article

May 21st, 2008

An interesting article from CNN on so-called “older workers” losing their jobs due to economic duress and consequent corporate downsizing. According to the piece, these workers are often senior level and find themselves overqualified for positions available in the job market, following an involuntary layoff.

It’s pretty surprising that the author didn’t mention franchising as a potential career path for these job seekers. Franchise ownership is a natural fit, one where they can harness the skills they spent decades honing and achieve job security (not to mention creeate wealth). Check out the article below and share your thoughts.

http://money.cnn.com/2008/05/21/news/economy/olderworkers/index.htm?postversion=2008052109

Liberty Tax Service has become the fastest growing international income tax franchise company ever with 2,700 offices in the U.S. and Canada.

May 16th, 2008

Learn more about Liberty Tax Service at Franchise.com

Mortgage/real estate industry professionals - changing careers

May 15th, 2008

Much ado has been made about the housing market’s state of disarray and the role of subprime mortgages in creating the issues plaguing America’s economy. Naturally, as is the case anytime people lose significant sums of money, fingers are being pointed. The Federal Reserve, Wall Street, mortgage brokers, and home-buyers are among those drawing the ire of the media. Who’s to be blamed? I don’t think that culpability should be assigned to a single group.  

 

Lost in the shuffle of the subprime mortgage disaster is the fact that thousands of honest people who once earned a living in the mortgage or real estate industries will find themselves unemployed, or perhaps to choosing to seek an alternative career path, as a result of the housing market’s collapse. Where will they turn?

 

For many of these people, we think franchising presents a wonderful option for getting their career back on track. There are myriad franchise opportunities that require the same skill sets they have honed throughout their careers. From financial services franchises to business services franchises to work from home businesses, there are plenty of opportunities they should consider exploring.

Floor Coverings International on You Tube

May 15th, 2008



Get more information on Floor Coverings International at
Franchise.com

Financing your Franchise with 401k money

May 12th, 2008

Through Guidant Financial Group’s award-winning programs, your retirement account can fund your entrepreneurial endeavor, help increase the success rate of your new business and effectively earn you a higher rate of return on your investment dollars. Unlike traditional bank loans or using home equity to finance your new business, Guidant’s funding option allows you to start your franchise or business with minimal (if any) debt, provides you with significant tax benefits, and helps pave the way to a successful business future.