Article contributed by Don Daszkowski

When considering life as an entrepreneur, it is important to understand the definitions of a franchise, business opportunity and a start-up business. There are, of course, advantages and disadvantages to each style of business. In this article we will discuss the advantages and disadvantages of owning a franchise.

FRANCHISE:
A franchise is a right granted to an individual or group to market a company's goods or services within a certain territory or location. The franchisor (the company owner) sells the rights to the franchisee and then typically receives a fee for ongoing support, therefore having a vested interest in the success of each franchise.

Franchising began back in the 1850's when Isaac Singer invented the sewing machine. In order to distribute his machines outside of his geographical area, and also provide training to customers on the use of the machines, Singer began selling licenses to entrepreneurs in different parts of the country. Today many such franchise opportunities are advertised via the Web and other media. Examples of franchises include Carvel, Tutoring Club and Liberty Tax Service.

Advantages:

* There is a higher likelihood of success since a proven business formula is in place. The products, services, and business operations have already been established.
* Bankers usually look at successful franchise chains as having a lower risk of repayment default and are more likely to loan money based on that premise.
* The corporate image and brand awareness is already recognized. Consumers are generally more comfortable purchasing items they are familiar with and working with companies they know and trust.
* Franchise companies usually provide extensive training and support to their franchisees in effort to help them succeed.
* Many times products and services are advertised at a local and national level by the main franchise companies. This practice helps boost sales for all franchisees, but individual franchisees don't absorb the cost.

Disadvantages:

* Franchises can be costly to implement. Also, many franchises charge ongoing royalties cutting into the profits of franchisees.
* Franchisors usually require franchisees to follow their operations manual to a tee in order to ensure consistency. This limits any creativity on the part of the franchisee.
* Franchisees must be very good at following directions in order to maintain the image and level of service already established. If the franchisee is not capable of running a quality business or does not have proper funding, this could curtail success.

Sometimes franchisors may be lax on their commitment to support the franchisee. Also, they may make poor decisions that would have an ill effect on the franchisee. Therefore, it is important to research any franchise concept thoroughly before signing any agreements.

It is suggested you contact a franchise consultant to discuss if franchising is right for you. You can visit FranchiseBuyersNetwork.com and click on the Franchise Consulting link to have a local franchise consultant contact you for a phone interview.

About the Author

Don Daszkowski is President and CEO of BusinessMart.com. BusinessMart.com has thousands of businesses for sale, franchises and small business articles. Don is also About.com's Guide to Franchises. About.com is a New York Times Company.

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