Franchising: Bruce R. Barringer R. Duane Ireland
Franchising: Bruce R. Barringer R. Duane Ireland
Franchising
Bruce R. Barringer
R. Duane Ireland
• Franchising
– Franchising is a form of business organization in which a
firm that already has a successful product or service
(franchisor) licenses its trademark and method of doing
business to another business or individual (franchisee) in
exchange for a franchise fee and an ongoing royalty
payment.
• Buying a Franchise
– Purchasing a franchise is an important business decision
involving a substantial financial commitment.
– Potential franchise owners should strive to be as well
informed as possible before purchasing a franchise and
should be aware that it is often legally and financially
difficult to exit a franchise relationship.
• How willing are you to put your money at risk? How will
you feel if your business is operating at a net loss but you
will have to pay royalties on your gross income?
• Advertising Fees
– Franchisees are often required to pay into a national or
regional advertising fund.
• Other Fees
– Other fees may be charged for various activities, including:
• Training additional staff.
• Providing management expertise when needed.
• Providing computer assistance.
• Providing a host of other items or support services.
• International Franchising
– International opportunities for franchising are becoming
more established for the following two reasons:
• The markets for certain franchised products in the U.S. have
become saturated (i.e., fast food).
• The trend toward globalization continues.
– Steps to take before buying a franchise overseas:
• Consider the value of the franchisor’s name in the foreign country.
• Get a good lawyer.
• Determine whether the product or service is saleable in the foreign
country.
• Find out how much training and support you will receive from the
franchisor.