What is franchising?

If you are keen to be your own boss but don’t want to start from scratch, franchising could be the ideal business model to explore.

A franchise is a business investment that allows the franchisee (you!) to start a business using an existing brand (the franchisor’s) established business, systems and processes.

Well known businesses in the UK which you may not even realise are franchises, include McDonalds, Subway and Domino’s Pizza.  All of these are locally owned and run by people who have invested in the brand’s franchise model.  But it’s not just fast food that can be franchised.  Across the country there are thousands of different franchise opportunities across every business sector.  Pick a sector that appeals to you and reap the benefits of buying into a successful brand.

Franchising is an attractive proposition because it allows you to invest in a proven business model, enjoy the rewards of self-employment and create your own work/life balance.  Investing in a franchise from an established brand not only gives you a head start in your chosen industry, but is also an attractive investment proposition when seeking funding. Your bank manager is far more likely to provide a loan for a franchise company with a proven track record, than a new business idea you think might work!

Franchisees benefit from the support and advice of the franchisor through the investment and set up of the new business and beyond.  Many companies offer franchisees expertise across every aspect of running a business from sales and marketing to recruitment and HR.  Add to this the invaluable advice and insights available through the network of like-minded franchisees that you have joined, and it’s easy to see why franchising is such a popular business choice.