When SMB Franchise Advisors was founded in 2009, President and CEO Steve Beagelman had one goal: to help franchisors grow by providing unmatched support in franchise systems. Now, over a decade later, Beagelman and his team have helped over 450 emerging and established franchises realize their potential in an industry that is rewarding but complex. By Brianna Bohn
When SMB Franchise Advisors was founded in 2009, President and CEO Steve Beagelman had one goal: to help franchisors grow by providing unmatched support in franchise systems. Now, over a decade later, Beagelman and his team have helped over 450 emerging and established franchises realize their potential in an industry that is rewarding but complex.
“Franchising is a great industry, but franchising is a whole new business. If you have a pizza business that you decide to franchise, you’re no longer just in the pizza business; you’re also in the franchise business. We’re here to help you make that transition and embrace all the changes,” Beagelman explained.
SMB has a team of experts with industry-wide knowledge and expertise in niche areas, providing specialized support. As a result, business owners who partner with SMB reap the benefits of working with a group of skilled professionals who have their best interests in mind. Whether it’s franchise creation, branding, marketing or operational support, SMB does it all. The first time business owners work with the company, they gain access to invaluable resources, including ongoing support from a large industry network.
“When we work with you, we don’t just shake your hand, say goodbye and wish you luck. We’re a family. Every year, SMB has multiple in-person networking events to bring all our clients together and they share what’s working in key areas of franchising,” Beagelman said. Of those events, one of the most popular is the annual SMB Summit, featuring the company’s Panel of the Pros. Hundreds of SMB family members fly in to learn how to further enhance their businesses.
Always innovating and improving its practices to provide clients with the most advantages in the franchising world, SMB offers retainer services for ongoing support, with some clients returning years later for guidance on their FDD and other projects.
“As they’re expanding, they want to make sure they’re making the right decisions to grow,” said Beagelman. “I spend some of my time now helping clients with private equity exits. That’s a big part of franchising.”
For many businesses, including those that recently started franchising and existing franchisors that can’t seem to gain momentum, SMB is a much-needed genie in a bottle, making dreams come true through franchising. Beagelman proudly shared how his team’s systems and services have helped businesses jump from a single location to several franchisees in the first year and then over a hundred thereafter.
“I’ve helped [businesses] form advisory boards, I’ve sat on many advisory boards for years, and those who really listen and embrace the process will fulfill the American Dream,” Beagelman said.
Of course, according to the founder of the franchise consulting company, there are some measures that franchisors should and should not take.
Do:
- Recognize you’re moving into a new business
- Be committed
- Be willing and ready to support franchisees
Don’t:
- Say “I’m too busy”
- Think you have to/should do this on your own
- Sell to owners who don’t embrace your culture
With highly rated services and a commitment to the client relationship, SMB is excited to welcome new brands and continue its track record of success. Since SMB started, it has seen significant growth every year, even through the pandemic. For the past four years, SMB has been ranked as a top supplier in the franchise consulting/development category by Entrepreneur magazine.
“We’re your partner for success. We’re here to help you grow,” Beagelman said.
Brianna Bohn