Franchising can represent a good choice for many people as it could effectively be a type of supported self-employment. Although a franchise system has a business ownership option, the franchise owner should typically provide training and on going support aside from a demonstrated franchise system on which to build a business.
How then could you find the very best franchise opportunity for yourself? What could be the key factors that need to be considered?
Established System
The heart of a franchise business is its proven system. By piloting a small business idea, a franchisor will demonstrate that their business prototype and formula works and is lucrative. This may then be replicated by any person who wishes to purchase into the franchise business proposition and dedicate themselves to sticking to the proven system. Take a good look at the franchise business idea and look to see if it has a proven track history.
Track record
The track record is generally established by talking to the franchise owner and requesting information of their pilot businesses and their performance. Contacting any current franchisees is also important to find out how the franchise business is functioning for them and if they’re operating profitably. It’s also possible to consult the franchise departments of a few of the major high street banks. If they have knowledge of the franchise business, and are presently lending finance to current franchisees, this is a positive sign.
Finance
Its also crucial that you consider what you may have the funds for. Any investment investment you’ve got to hand, might possibly be combined with any lending that a bank can offer, so chat to a few of the main high street banks concerning financing to evaluate what your purchase potential is. This will assist you to explore franchise offerings that meet your financial constraints and not throw away time considering those you cannot come up with the money for.
Gut Feel
Its also vital that you meet the franchise owner face-to-face and establish how you are feeling about working with them. A franchise isn’t a totally self-supporting choice, but one which may sometimes require interaction between you as the UK franchise operator, or franchisee, and the franchise brand owner, or franchisor.