Franchising a business makes your dream into a reality; however, it all depends on whether you select one that fits your objectives, strengths and lifestyle. It is not simply a process of purchasing a brand. This is the step-by-step process to help you pass through dreaming and owning with confidence.
Step 1: Think about Your Vision and Goals.
You need to do yourself a favour and be honest with yourself before you get yourself into franchise listings.- Question yourself as to why you would like to have a franchise. Is it financial freedom, flexibility in work-life, or love of a certain industry?
- Establish your objectives: What is the definition of success to you, a stable pay, long-term growth or practical leadership?
- Evaluate your living: Determine to what extent you want to become involved. There are those franchises that must be managed on a day-to-day basis; there are those that are semi-absentee.
- Assess your strengths: Determine what you have already done in management, sales, or operations and use it in selecting a model that complements your strengths.
Step 2: Carry Out In-depth Research.
- You have a vision: start visiting industries and opportunities that suit you.
- Check franchise directories: Franchise directories such as the International Franchise Association (IFA) or Hoopdesk can assist you in investigating the options, depending on their category and the level of investment.
- Research industry trends: Find markets with steady growth and consumers who are ready to buy.
- Make a shortlist: Select 1-3 franchise systems that meet your interests, financial objectives and lifestyle. Ask them to provide their Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD) to have a closer look at it.
Step 3: Dissect the Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD).
Your greatest research weapon is the FDD. It is a legal document that franchisors are supposed to give to enable you to make an informed decision.- Read everything: Find out about the history, fees, and commitments of the franchisor.
- Know the charges: Be interested in startup costs, royalties and marketing charges.
- Evaluate financial performance: Research on past earnings.
- Know your territory: this is significant in ensuring that you shield your business against competition in the surrounding areas.
Step 4: Perform Due Diligence
After shortlisting, it is now time to get down to business.- Interview existing and former franchisees: These people will provide you with a personal experience regarding the operations, support, and profitability.
- Get expert advice: An accountant may be used to evaluate financial feasibility, and a franchise attorney may go through legal specifics.
- Visit Discovery Day: Gain entry into the leadership team of the franchisor, inquire, and see what the culture of the brand is like.
Step 5: Secure Financing
Franchises can be costly to invest in, but you do not need to contribute all the funds.- Evaluate your capital: Have an idea of how much you can invest as personal funds.
Explore your options:
- Franchisor funding: Certain brands provide preferred lender financing or in-house financing.
- Alternative lenders: It is more immediate access to capital, but at a higher rate.
Step 6: Finally, sign the deal and start being launched.
You have researched, looked through the FDD and got financing, but the moment to jump has come, and you are ready to jump.- Sign the franchise agreement upon approval by your attorney.
- Total training to know the systems and standards of the franchisor.
- Establish and open your location through continuous marketing and operation assistance by the franchisor.
- When you open your doors, you are not only embarking on a business venture, but you are also going into a successful model.