If you’re considering attending one of our franchise expos, we’re glad to hear you’re interested! To assist you, we’ve prepared a short guide on what to expect and how to prepare for a franchise expo. By Sheila Fischer
As people become increasingly concerned with the environment, interest in solar options has grown exponentially. Switching to solar can reduce a homeowner’s carbon footprint and monthly electric bill while positively impacting the environment. By Elice Morgenson
As a franchise consultant, I frequently share with clients who are considering a franchise that there are two sides of the business equation to understand. One side is a complete understanding of the business model and what makes it franchise-able. By Pamela Currie
Island Fin Poké’s (IFP) first conference recently took place at the Loews Royal Pacific Resort at Universal in Orlando, Florida. Mark Setterington, IFP founder and CEO, welcomed his franchisee families, support team and speakers at the two-and-a-half-day event, which is slated to become an annual tradition. By Cindy Charette
There are a lot of people who love the idea of owning a home-improvement business but don’t love the idea of doing the work themselves. Luckily, there’s a franchise business model that’s suited perfectly: the Executive Model. By Alesia Visconti
Seems like a simple enough question. However, I think many franchisors forget they are in two businesses. One is the underlying subject matter expert on the service provided to consumers, such as a restaurant, gym, roofing, etc. But the second, and increasingly more important, as your system grows, is the business of franchising. By Tom Spadea
It’s no secret that COVID-19 restrictions have taken a toll on businesses, with many industries affected by forced closures and even essential businesses impacted by social distancing rules. For members of the franchise community, however, the wide support available has made the journey a bit easier. By Rochelle Miller
by Brian LaCour
Certified Franchise Consultant
When you’ve got the entrepreneurial itch, you might be weighing whether to go it alone or invest in a franchise. Here are nine arguments in favor of the second option.
1. You get off to a head start with the backing of a named brand. By purchasing a franchise, you’re often buying into a business with a brand that’s already been developed or emerging, marketed, and, most important, familiar to consumers.
2. You can choose the franchise that accommodates your lifestyle. Maybe you want to work from home or work only certain parts of the year. Perhaps you don’t want to manage employees. Investing in a franchise allows for this flexibility. Franchises are diverse, and many of them don’t require employees or office space. You can opt for a franchise that’s right for your interests and skills.
3. You receive customized training designed to get you up to speed with your business. In a mix of classroom and on-the-job training, the franchisor will teach how to operate the business as well as the techniques particular to the brand. The transfer of knowledge during training serves as the foundation of a successful franchise network and is not available to someone in business by himself.
4. You benefit from intellectual property, trademarks, and patents. Many franchisors grant you access to proprietary technology or software that’s designed specifically to their brand and gives franchisees an edge over their competitors.
5. You benefit from strategic partnerships and agreements. By joining a franchise network, you become part of a much larger, more powerful network than you could have on your own. This applies to everything from negotiating the purchase of advertising to making supply arrangements.
6. You increase your chances of success. Franchise ownership increase your chances of being in business five or 10 years later and being profitable.
7. You have a team protecting the integrity of the brand. Being part of a franchise network requires adhering to rules and regulations. The upside is that there are standards for quality control among all franchisees. In addition, a strong franchise network will ensure all the franchisees are operating at peak performance.
8. You follow a formula that has proved successful. One discouraging aspect of starting your own business is testing the products and/or services you’re trying to sell. Going out on your own requires a leap of faith. A franchise network has already found what works.
9. You’re not alone. Starting a business can be intimidating. It is a test of endurance as you navigate unfamiliar territory. With a franchise, your network is just a phone call, email, or text message away. A support team will assist you when you open and as you continue to grow your business.
Brian LaCour has more than 20 years of business leadership experience in driving fiscal results, strategic planning, saving costs, increasing revenue, streamlining processes, and developing top performing teams. LaCour’s passion for helping people led him to the role as president of the International Franchise Group. Call LaCour at 561-502-7283 or email him at blacour@internationalfranchisegroup.com. Visit www.internationalfranchisegroup.com.