What Makes a Great Franchise?

 

If the franchise you are looking at doesn’t have a strong business system or a proven business model, then cross it off your list and move on. What is the difference? A strong business system is how the business operates on a daily basis, such as the payroll, point of sale system, marketing and point-of-sale systems. These items are in direct contact with your consumer. If it isn’t well executed, they will be the first to know and word of mouth can be disastrous (or conversely, highly beneficial). Also, a proven business model is what makes a franchise…a franchise. Franchisees purchase an idea that has shown massive success. They then get training on how to replicate that success (system) to obtain the same outcome. The entrepreneur has the option to choose a business that has been around for years or may be newer, but either choice should have both a strong model and system.

 

 

When you find a franchise that is constantly innovating and trying new ideas, keep it on the list. This is a strong sign that they will remain a success through their consistent flow of creativity and openness to keep their business relevant. A business has its staples, however it shouldn’t remain monotonous or its customer base will grow bored and restless. Look for the franchise that has solid staples with an equally solid stream of fresh product or offers.

 

Befriend other franchisees and seek their wisdom – this will undoubtedly weed out some “maybes” on your list. Ask what they did in their research stage and during their first year, and compare their personality to their ownership responsibilities. Who are you most like? Are they succeeding or is their business struggling? The trick here is to be honest with yourself after the interviews. If you speak with a franchisee that is failing, yet resonates perfectly with your work habits, seriously question your next step. Franchisees in your community could be your future – carefully reflect on that.

 

Is there such a thing as a perfect franchise? No. If you are seeking perfection, you will not find it. What you can find, however, is a franchise that will embrace all your particular wants and needs and provide you with the future you’ve always wanted.