For over 15 years, SMB Franchise Advisors has been a pivotal player in the franchise industry, assisting over 500 brands across more than 100 industries to prepare, launch and grow in the franchise industry. Founded in 2009 by Steve Beagelman, SMB has distinguished itself as a full-service franchise development consultancy, offering tailored strategies and programs that cater to the unique needs of each client. By Rose Mango
COVER STORY: SMB Franchise Advisors’ Journey in Transforming Over 500 Brands
For over 15 years, SMB Franchise Advisors has been a pivotal player in the franchise industry, assisting over 500 brands across more than 100 industries to prepare, launch and grow in the franchise industry. Founded in 2009 by Steve Beagelman, SMB has distinguished itself as a full-service franchise development consultancy, offering tailored strategies and programs that cater to the unique needs of each client.
SMB Franchise Advisors prides itself on its holistic approach, guiding businesses through every phase of their franchising journey. Their services include developing comprehensive marketing materials, building robust sales processes, and designing efficient training and operational systems. Their C-suite team also assist in crafting financial performance representations, defining territory and fee criteria, and other strategic inputs to the franchise disclosure documents (FDDs), ensuring no detail is overlooked in the quest for growth.
One of the hallmarks of SMB’s success is its ability to forge strong, lasting relationships with clients. SMB goes beyond being just a consultancy; they act as an integral extension of their clients’ teams. This people-first approach has led to successful partnerships with numerous well-known brands, such as Lawn Doctor, K9 Resorts, SoBol, The Goddard School, Bagel Boss and GYMGUYZ. Under SMB’s guidance, these brands have experienced significant expansion in a short period of time.
SMB’s services are based on an accelerator model, designed to meet the specific needs of each client with not only their deliverable items, but the mentorship and connectivity offered in the franchising ecosystem. They offer leadership support, acting as fractional franchise executives to coach and guide businesses to their next development level. Their team conducts thorough financial performance analyses, operational reviews and brand assessments to ensure optimal growth strategies. Additionally, SMB connects clients with a network of industry professionals, including legal experts, technology providers, marketing agencies and financial advisers, covering all aspects of franchising.
SMB’s team comprises seasoned professionals with diverse franchising, operations, marketing, and business development backgrounds. For instance, Ken Moran, Chief Operating Officer, brings over 40 years of experience in the restaurant, franchise and hospitality industries. His expertise in managing multi-unit operations and developing franchise systems has been invaluable to SMB’s clients. Another key team member, Joanne Hoyer, has held various leadership, sales and development roles growing brands like Rita’s Water Ice. Her extensive experience in franchise sales and development further strengthens SMB’s consulting capabilities.
When asked about the SMB difference, Drew McWilliams, Ivybrook Academy, said: “In the 7 years we have been working with SMB, my wife and I have grown our business from two corporate locations to over 100 locations sold as a franchise brand across the U.S. and even a licensing deal in China. With SMB, it really is all about the relationship and we couldn’t have done it without them!”
SMB Franchise Advisors has built a legacy of innovation and customized, performance-driven strategies over its 15 years in the industry. Its comprehensive, relationship-focused approach has helped over 500 brands navigate the intricacies of franchising. With a dedicated team of experts and a robust network of industry partners, SMB continues to be a trusted partner for businesses looking to expand by franchising.
“I am so proud of our team, who over the 15 years, have stayed committed to helping over 500 brands. Franchising is an amazing way to expand and grow your business. We look forward to developing our relationships further, helping emerging brands fulfill their dream of expansion into new markets.” -Steve Beagelman
Rose Mango