Anyone looking to step on the road to successful franchising is advised to make sure they follow a few simple stages of planning before they leap.
Step. 1. What kind of franchise...
Firstly, deciding on what kind of franchise offers the best option can be the most crucial step to be made by any potential franchisee. Many successful operations tend to build on existing skills or work experience. For instance, opting for a pet food franchise could be the ideal choice for someone already experienced in animal care.
However, potential franchisees should not dismiss franchises even if they do not have directly relevant experience, as franchises can also make use of general skills such as strong leadership.
Step. 2. Narrow your search...
The next step involves narrowing down the wide range of franchise opportunities available even within certain sectors. For example, deciding to open a restaurant franchise can still mean a wide choice between the various types of cuisine as well as whether a take-away or eat-in establishment is preferred.
Step. 3. Carry out local search...
One way to find the ideal franchise is to carry out local market research as well as assessing the company support that will be provided by the franchisor.
Step 4. Find a franchisor...
Many franchise schemes can offer a quick way of starting a new business using a proven brand name and an existing way of operating on a day-to-day basis. For any new franchisee is it is crucial to long-term business success to invest in a franchise that offers a well run and successful model to ensure maximum profits and sales. In addition, finding a franchise that offers complete support can help negotiating and ensure easy access to relevant training.
Step 5. Raising franchise finance...
Having covered the steps of finding the right franchise, the next leap involves raising the right level of finance needed to invest in a franchise. The cost of franchise opportunities can vary and is often dependent on the franchise type, although they do tend to be cheaper that starting stand-alone ventures.
The franchise purchase fee will often include necessary equipment and supplies as well as accounting procedures. Potential franchisees will often discover that many banks are willing to support new franchisees rather than completely new businesses because such operations have the support of a parent company and an already successful model.
Step 6. Go for gold!
Finally, the last step to success involves long-term planning and the development of an ongoing business and marketing plan to ensure that a new franchise gradually evolves in to a well established and profitable operation.