Advantages and Challenges
Advantage #1 – The Experience of the Franchisor
When an individual buys a franchise, he purchases the years of experience and the proven methods of the franchise system, also known as the franchisor. One franchisee expressed it this way: “What I have learned from the franchisor was worth ten times what I paid for the franchise.” In any new business, much time and money are spent in trial and error. A proven franchise may eliminate many of the start-up problems. This reason permits one to open a franchise business with little or no previous experience in a given industry."
Advantage #2 – Training
A franchise system will provide training for the new franchisee. This is usually done at the home office and at the franchisee’s place of business. This training should prepare the owner in all facets of the business.
Advantage #3 – Buying and Advertising
Most small business people cannot afford to inventory products in bulk or do extensive advertising. The franchisee buys this advantage when he or she purchases the right to use the franchise system’s purchasing power and advertising. Most systems provide advertising help and direction. Furthermore, as the number of franchisees increases, so does public awareness of the franchise. This can be a tremendous advertising advantage. Also, franchisees that are located near one another and advertise together, thus reducing costs.
Advantage #4 – Ongoing Advice, Research, and Development
Franchisees need assistance throughout the term of their business endeavors. The franchise system’s staff of experts can give this needed help in all aspects of the business. The franchisor is also in a position to provide on-going research and development. Thus, new products and services will be brought to the attention of the franchisee.
Advantage #5 – Business Synergy
The word “synergy” refers to the idea that the sum of the whole is greater than the separate parts. This principle can be applied to franchising. Those who buy a franchise become part of a family where all members work together for the good of the whole. Indeed, there can be support and assistance in a franchise organization that assists everyone in becoming successful. Often, some of the most effective ideas come from franchisees that in turn share their ideas with the corporate office and with other franchisees.
Challenges
Challenge #1 – Working Within the System
People who have difficulty following directions or who dislike working within a system may find franchising extremely frustrating. Conformity to the franchise system is critical as consistency among franchises is to be maintained. However, there are areas such as marketing where a franchisee can be creative
Challenge #2 – The Risk
While it is true that purchasing a franchise has less risk than starting an independent business, there are still risks. Because you own the business, to a great extent, you determine the success of your venture. The franchisor may have a great program and a respected name, but in the final analysis much of the risk in your hands.
Challenge #3 – Working With the Franchise System
Buying a franchise can be closely compared to entering into a marriage. Both are legally binding relationships that can last for a long time. Your relationship with the franchise system and its staff will be extremely important. Get to know the franchise system through the following methods: a) Visit the corporate headquarters. Seek to get a feel for the staff and how smoothly the operation runs. Ask what their relationship with the franchisor is like. b) Talk to other franchisees. c) Read as much about the franchise as possible.
Challenge #4 – False Expectations
Some people enter franchising expecting instant success. Perhaps the reason some expect this is the tremendous success achieved by some franchisees. However, this success did not come without hard work and great effort. Franchising, like any other business, requires tremendous time, initiative and industry. Obtain from the franchisor as realistic a picture as possible as to what is required in operating that particular franchise.
Challenge #5 – Managing the Business
Some individuals are more prepared to manage a business than others. They have some business experience and have learned to get along well with people. Other individuals may find that managing a franchise is a tremendous burden. You must honestly assess your preparation to run a business. If you find that you have little or no experience, you may want to seek special assistant from the franchisor in business management.
