Curious about business ownership? Ever considered the franchise route? Many aspiring entrepreneurs turn to franchising, attracted by the promise of operating under a proven brand while still calling the shots.
That said, the path to successful franchising is paved with insights not everyone stumbles upon during their initial research. In this article, we give you 50 “Did You Knows” about franchising—vital nuggets of information and industry secrets that often escape even the most diligent researchers.
From the surprising benefits of franchise ownership to the comparisons of startups that aren’t always apparent, we’ve compiled a comprehensive list to guide you through the lesser-known aspects of this business opportunity. Whether you’re a seasoned business person or new to it all, these insights could reshape your understanding of what it means to own a franchise.
Here are 50 franchise “did you knows?”
1. Franchising offers a unique combination of control and high potential opportunity
Franchising presents a unique blend of entrepreneurship and structure, allowing you to run a business with the backing of a proven model. Unlike starting from scratch, a franchise comes with a playbook of strategies that have been tested and refined over time. This unique investment offers you the reins of your business while significantly reducing the risk associated with new ventures.
2. Business ownership is a hedge against inflation
Owning a business can protect your financial future against the eroding effects of inflation. By generating income through your business, you’re not solely reliant on fixed income or savings, which may lose value over time. Franchises, especially those with strong brand recognition and customer loyalty, can offer stable and sometimes increasing revenue streams despite economic fluctuations.
3. The tax code is written in the favor of business owners
Business ownership, including franchising, opens up a world of tax benefits that are not typically available to individuals. From deductions for business expenses to potential tax breaks for hiring and investment in equipment, the tax code supports the growth and sustainability of businesses. This advantage is something potential franchisees should consider when evaluating the financial aspects of franchise ownership.
4. A GOOD franchise coaches their franchisees to be successful business owners
The relationship between a franchisor and a franchisee is a partnership of mutual success. A good franchisor provides extensive training, ongoing support, and coaching to ensure their franchisees have the knowledge and skills to succeed. This educational aspect of franchising is invaluable for first-time business owners and seasoned entrepreneurs alike.
5. The product the franchise sells isn’t the priority in the franchise investment decision
While the product or service is important, the true value of a franchise lies in its business model, brand strength, support system, and the network of other franchisees. A successful franchise investment is often more about the system and support in place than the product itself. This is why potential franchisees are encouraged to look beyond the product and evaluate the entire business model and the franchisor’s track record of success.
6. GOOD franchises provide a culture that owners can utilize for thriving environments
A franchise’s culture can significantly impact your business’s success. A supportive, positive culture fosters a thriving environment for both employees and customers, contributing to overall satisfaction and loyalty. GOOD franchises cultivate cultures that emphasize values like integrity, excellence, and teamwork, which are critical for long-term success.
7. Business owners get to set their own schedule
One of the most appealing aspects of business ownership, particularly in franchising, is the flexibility it offers. Many franchise models allow owners to set their schedules, providing a balance between work and personal life that suits their needs. This flexibility is a significant advantage for entrepreneurs looking to escape the rigidity of traditional 9 to 5 jobs.
8. Business owners have the ability to compound assets pre-taxed
Franchising offers financial strategies that can amplify your wealth-building efforts. The ability to reinvest profits into your business or other vehicles pre-tax is a powerful tool for financial growth. This approach can accelerate asset accumulation, providing a more efficient path to financial security and independence.
9. Most people get into business ownership for the independence and flexible lifestyle
The drive towards franchising often stems from the desire for independence and a flexible lifestyle. Franchise ownership offers the unique opportunity to be your own boss, make decisions that directly impact your business, and establish a work-life balance that meets your personal and professional goals.
10. Our systems don’t educate people on the tax benefits and opportunities of business ownership
Despite the significant tax advantages available to business owners, there’s a gap in general education about these benefits. Franchising can open doors to various tax strategies that maximize your earnings and minimize liabilities, making it a financially savvy option for entrepreneurs.
11. There are new management structures for businesses that create strong work environments
Innovative management structures in franchising are reshaping traditional business environments. These new models prioritize employee engagement, leadership development, and open communication, leading to more productive and positive workplaces. This evolution in management can significantly influence franchise success.
12. Most businesses struggle by having the wrong people in the wrong roles
The success of any franchise depends heavily on having the right team in place. Many businesses face challenges due to misalignment between employees’ roles and their strengths or interests. GOOD franchises have systems for recruiting, training, and placing individuals in positions where they can thrive and contribute to the business’s success.
13. You need to regularly review your annual financials as a business owner
Regular financial reviews are crucial for maintaining the health and growth of your franchise. These reviews help you understand where your business stands, identify areas for improvement, and make informed decisions. Franchisors often provide tools and support for financial management, ensuring franchisees can navigate their finances effectively.
14. Business owners have access to much greater retirement saving opportunities
Franchise ownership can significantly enhance your retirement planning options. The ability to invest in retirement accounts with pre-tax dollars and the potential for business equity growth present valuable opportunities for building a robust retirement fund. This advantage is another compelling reason to consider franchising as a path to financial freedom.
15. Most businesses DON’T mystery shop or audit their teams’ performance
Regular evaluations like mystery shopping or performance audits are essential for maintaining high standards of service and operations. GOOD franchises implement these practices to ensure consistency across locations, helping franchisees identify areas for improvement and celebrate successes. This level of oversight is part of the value proposition of investing in a franchise.
16. Most businesses don’t have a value proposition statement
Unlike most independent businesses, franchises often excel in articulating a clear value proposition. This articulation provides a straightforward explanation of the benefits their products or services offer, distinguishing them in the market. Franchisees inherit this value proposition, giving them a significant advantage in conveying their business’s worth to customers.
17. Most businesses don’t have core values that they hire, fire, and manage by
Franchises typically operate on a foundation of core values, which guide hiring, firing, and day-to-day management. This alignment ensures that the franchisee’s team not only supports but also enhances the brand’s reputation in the local market through consistent execution of these values.
18. A business needs financial benchmarks to make decisions by
A crucial aspect of business management is the establishment of financial benchmarks, which aid in informed decision-making. These benchmarks allow owners to gauge their business’s performance against industry standards, facilitating strategic planning and adjustments as needed.
19. Each department of a business needs its own KPIs to measure its success of the department
To ensure the success of various departments within a business, it’s essential to define Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) for each. These metrics provide a clear view of performance, enabling targeted improvements and accountability at the departmental level.
20. A GOOD franchise has invested in research and development to stay ahead of the market
A distinguishing feature of a GOOD franchise is its investment in research and development. This proactive approach keeps the franchise ahead of market trends and innovations, ensuring long-term competitiveness and appeal to consumers.
21. GOOD Franchises have training systems for not only the owner but employees of the franchise owner
Comprehensive training systems are a hallmark of GOOD franchises, benefiting not just the franchise owner but also their employees. This emphasis on education equips the team with the skills and knowledge necessary for exceptional service delivery.
22. The returns on a franchise are not necessarily related to the investment amount
The potential returns on investing in a franchise can vary widely and are not strictly proportional to the initial investment. Success in franchising often depends more on the execution of the business model and the support provided by the franchisor than on the amount invested.
23. The right pace of growth for a franchise is critical to its success and sustainability
An optimal staff-to-growth ratio, typically 1:20, serves as a benchmark for managing expansion effectively. This ratio ensures that each franchise unit receives sufficient support, particularly in the crucial, labor-intensive early stages. However, if a franchise experiences rapid growth, a more intensive staffing approach may be necessary, sometimes even a 1:10 ratio, to maintain service quality and operational efficiency.Â
24. The franchise system acts like a partner in the business
In the franchising model, the relationship between franchisor and franchisee is a partnership rooted in mutual success. Franchisors play a crucial role, not just as overseers, but as active partners invested in the franchisee’s growth and profitability. This partnership is characterized by ongoing support in various forms—be it through comprehensive training programs, marketing strategies, operational support, or financial advice.
25. The franchise gives the financial budget of estimated expenses and ongoing expenses
Franchises provide franchisees with financial budgets detailing estimated and ongoing expenses. This transparency helps new owners plan effectively, reducing financial uncertainties associated with starting a new business.
26. You can see the retention rates of franchise owners in a system
Prospective franchisees can gauge the stability and success of a franchise system by reviewing retention rates. High retention rates often indicate a supportive franchisor and a viable business model.
27. You can call all past purchasers of a franchise and are provided their contact information
Access to contact information for past franchise purchasers allows prospective franchisees to conduct due diligence, gaining insights into the franchisor’s track record and the franchise’s performance from those who have firsthand experience.
28. The franchise must provide you with their audited franchise financial statements
The requirement for franchisors to provide audited franchise financial statements offers transparency and reassurance, allowing potential franchisees to make informed investment decisions based on solid financial data.
29. Some huge franchises have extremely LOW retention rates
The common perception that a bigger brand equates to a better franchise opportunity doesn’t always hold true, especially when considering franchisee retention rates. While a large, well-known franchise may seem like a safer bet due to its brand recognition and established market presence, this can be misleading. These rates are a crucial metric, as they can reflect underlying issues such as inadequate support, poor franchisee satisfaction, or financial performance not meeting expectations. For potential franchisees, assessing the long-term viability of a franchise means looking beyond brand size and popularity to understand the real experiences of current and former franchisees.Â
30. You can see how well the leadership team works together before you purchase a franchise
Understanding how a franchise’s leadership team collaborates can offer valuable insights into the franchisor’s operational effectiveness and culture, aiding prospective franchisees in choosing a franchise with a supportive and efficient leadership structure.
31. You can see how franchises handle conflict before purchase
The approach a franchise takes to conflict resolution before purchase can significantly affect a franchisee’s decision-making process, highlighting the importance of compatibility and support in overcoming challenges.
32. Some franchises offer large vendor discounts that offset certain fees they charge
Franchises that offer large vendor discounts can provide financial benefits that help offset other fees, making them an attractive option for entrepreneurs looking to maximize their investment’s value.
33. Some franchises have call centers to book appointments and generate leads
The availability of call centers or lead generation services from the franchisor can greatly enhance a franchisee’s ability to attract and serve customers, contributing to the franchise’s growth and profitability.
34. Some franchises offer national accounts and government contracts
National accounts and government contracts offered by some franchises can provide a stable and significant source of revenue, enhancing the attractiveness of the franchise opportunity.
35. Some franchises use AI in hiring and can book you with appointments with pre vetted employee interviews
The incorporation of AI in hiring processes and the provision of pre-vetted employee interviews can streamline the recruitment process for franchisees, ensuring a higher quality of candidates and reducing administrative burdens.
36. Some franchises offer career path planning for the franchise owner’s employees
Career path planning for employees of franchise owners not only aids in staff retention and satisfaction but also contributes to the overall growth and success of the franchise by fostering a motivated and skilled workforce. People go to work where there is room for growth and development.
37. You have to be approved for a franchise, you can’t just buy one
The approval process for purchasing a franchise ensures that franchisees are well-suited to the franchisor’s model and values, contributing to the success of the system. Franchisors look for individuals who not only have the financial capacity to invest but also possess the motivation, skills, and temperament to build and maintain a successful business under their brand. By meticulously selecting franchisees who are a good fit, franchisors aim to uphold the quality and reputation of the brand, ensuring long-term success for both parties.
38. When you are able to run a business that empowers your team as leaders, it’s incredibly rewarding
Cultivating leadership within your team not only aids in personal development but also builds a stronger, more resilient business structure where decisions are informed by diverse perspectives. The rewards of such an environment are multifaceted, from enhanced productivity and innovation to increased loyalty and reduced turnover.Â
39. In franchising, the use of technology cuts down admin work exponentially
The adoption of technology in franchising reduces administrative work significantly, allowing franchisees to focus more on strategic activities and growth. This tech is provided to you through the system, and by franchising you cut down on the time it takes to research and test this tech.
40. In franchising, you can see and measure almost every aspect of your business
Technology enables comprehensive monitoring and measurement of various business aspects, offering insights that can drive improvements and efficiency in franchising operations. If you had metrics to track everything you’re doing, plus a guide on how to do it, success would be a clearer path.
41. Technology is making targeted marketing much easier
The advent of technology has revolutionized targeted marketing, especially for franchises. Sophisticated algorithms and data analytics allow for the precise targeting of specific demographics, interests, and behaviors, making marketing campaigns more efficient and cost-effective. This capability enables franchises to craft personalized messages that resonate deeply with their intended audience, significantly enhancing engagement and conversion rates.Â
42. Some franchises have GPS tracking on vehicles
GPS tracking on vehicles and customer apps that eliminate the need for direct interaction with employees are examples of how technology is enhancing operational efficiency and customer experience in franchising.
43. Some franchises have apps that customers use instead of engaging directly with employees
Apps allow customers to access services and products directly, bypassing traditional employee interactions. This digital approach enhances convenience, streamlines operations, and often leads to improved customer satisfaction. This tech-forward strategy not only caters to the modern consumer’s preference for digital interactions but also positions the franchise at the forefront of technological adoption in their industry.
44. You can leverage your investment in a franchise against the banks capital
Once approved, franchisees can leverage their investment against bank capital, opening up additional financial resources for growth and expansion. Banks, recognizing the inherent stability and support system provided by established franchisors, are generally more inclined to extend favorable financing options to franchisees. This could include enhanced loan amounts, competitive interest rates, or more flexible repayment terms, all of which are designed to facilitate the franchisee’s growth and expansion efforts.
45. Certain banks like certain franchises and give preferred terms
Certain banks have established preferences for specific franchises based on their historical performance and financial stability, resulting in preferred lending terms for franchisees of those brands. This can lead to lower interest rates, better repayment terms, and potentially easier qualification criteria, providing a significant financial advantage and facilitating a smoother start for the business.
46. There are franchise owners from all walks of life
Franchising attracts individuals from diverse backgrounds, contributing to a rich community of franchise owners with varied experiences and perspectives. This blend of backgrounds and perspectives cultivates a dynamic ecosystem where learning from one another is constant, and adapting to market demands is a collective effort. It’s the diversity within the franchise owner community that contributes to the resilience and continued growth of the franchising model, making it a robust avenue for those looking for a business venture.
47. Veterans make excellent franchise owners and can receive discounts
Veterans are recognized as excellent franchise owners, with certain franchises offering discounts to honor their service and support their transition to civilian entrepreneurship.
48. There’s a movement for diversity and minorities in franchising
There is a growing movement to promote diversity and inclusion within franchising, expanding opportunities for minorities and fostering a more inclusive industry.
49. You can fast-track to Millionaire status through franchising
Franchising not only offers a route to business ownership but also an accelerated path to wealth. Research by Tom Corley shows that entrepreneurs can reach millionaire status in about 12 years, a significant contrast to the 32 years it often takes through traditional saving and investing. A key advantage for franchisees is the ability to reinvest pre-tax earnings, leveraging a 20-30% saving into compounded growth. This financial strategy, unique to business owners, underscores the underestimated power of investing pre-tax income.
50. Finding a GOOD franchise without an FBA Franchise Broker is more difficult
Brokers offer specialized knowledge and access to a wide network of franchisors, making the search process more efficient and tailored to an individual’s goals and financial capabilities. Without a Broker, prospective franchisees must navigate a vast and complex market on their own, which can lead to missed opportunities or, conversely, overwhelming options. A Broker’s expertise in matching candidates with suitable franchises and guiding them through the evaluation process significantly simplifies the journey to franchise ownership.
Next Steps in Franchising
After reading 50 insightful “Did You Knows,” you now understand the franchising industry a little better.
If business ownership is on your horizon, the next step is to connect with your FBA Franchise Broker. They can help you leverage this newfound knowledge, guiding you towards making informed decisions and taking confident steps towards achieving entrepreneurship.
Let’s get connected and explore how you can turn this research into actionable steps as soon as today.