Franchise Guide

The franchise business model has been called one of the greatest ever developed. With a proven track record and established brand, franchises are consistently popular. About 5% of small business owners choose to purchase a franchise versus starting from scratch.  

This Franchise Guide helps you through the process of evaluating and purchasing a franchise.

Franchise 101: The Basics

what is a franchise

A franchise gives you the right to use the franchise brand and systems.

Franchise History Infographic

The first franchises can be traced back to the middle ages. Explore the fascinating history.

Pros and Cons of Franchising (As a Buyer)

Franchisees are more likely to be successful vs. starting a business.

rookie entrepreneurs

Ten compelling benefits and reasons to become a franchise business owner.

franchise challenges

A list of 10 challenges that a franchise business owner often faces. 

franchisor vs. franchisee

The franchisor starts the business. The franchisee purchases the right to use the franchise system. 

How Does a Franchise Work?
When you purchase a franchise, the blueprint is laid out with specifications. You just have to follow the plans.
franchise fee - ongoing and one-time fees

The fee is owed to the franchisor for use of the brand and system.

Franchise Agreement: 20 Important Things to Know

A signed agreement gives you rights to help safeguard your investment.

Franchise Disclosure Document: The 23 Required Items

This document helps you understand the legal and financial commitments you’ll be making.

Is a Franchise Right for You?

How to Succeed as a Franchisee

You have to make a lot of the right moves when buying a franchise.

Is a Franchise Right for Me?

Good franchise owners are those who rise to the challenge of being a business owner.

24 Business Review Sites to Help Monitor Your Online Reputation

Does buying yourself a job really sound all that bad?

Top Stories: SMB Wages at All Time High, Franchises Create Even More Jobs

Some franchisees became owners by being an employee first.

Franchise Financing Options: How to Find the Money

Identify assets and lenders for the best sources of franchise financing.

Types of Franchises

25 Examples of Embezzlement and Workplace Theft

There are over 3,000 franchises in the US in 5 categories.

Franchise vs Business Opportunity

The major differences include upfront costs,  support, and the rules.

Master Franchises Business Relationship Diagram

In most systems, a master franchisee doesn’t own or operate outlets.

Multi-Unit Franchises: Path to Wealth

In multi-unit franchising, you have to spend money to make money.

Negotiating with the Franchisor

The Burger King $1 Cheeseburger: How Much Does It Really Cost?

Tips for buying into someone else’s already successful idea.

How to Research a Franchise

Eleven inexpensive franchise research steps to make the best choice for you.

Hiring A Franchise Attorney

Work with attorneys who know franchising inside and out.

Questions To Ask Franchise Company Executives

Well thought-out questions can have a big impact on your decision.

employee onboarding

If you’re invited to a Discovery Day, things are about to get serious.

Bankruptcy isn’t common, but it does happen. Protect your interests.

Franchise Resources and Templates

Most franchisors require a certain net worth. Check yours with this calculator.

Use this template to compare key points as you research franchises. 

Ready to Choose a Franchise?