ADVERTISEMENTS

ARTICLE | February 3, 2012

Home Instead Senior Care franchisee Steve Boos has always followed his heart in business, starting when he worked in the paper industry for a company that was focused on reducing waste in paper manufacturing. So it’s not surprising that a stint in the Army Reserves and a year in Iraq drastically changed his career path.
more >   comment

NEWS | January 11, 2012

Franchise Business Review announced today that Padgett Business Services, which offers financial services to small businesses, has become a business partner and content expert for Frantopia, FBR’s social networking and business resources site.
more >   comment

SECTOR REPORT | November 1, 2011

Veterans and Franchise Report 2011Although many organizations have set out to look at the “best” franchise opportunities for veterans, until now, none of these listings included data on actual veteran franchisee satisfaction and performance—perhaps the most telling data of all. Franchise Business Review’s Veterans and Franchising 2011 is the first report to look at which franchise opportunities are most veteran-friendly based on franchisee satisfaction.
more >   comment (2)

ASK FBR | June 15, 2010

There are plenty of franchise opportunities in the cleaning services and maintenance sector. They vary by many aspects including investment level, commercial vs. residential services, the amount of support the franchisor supplies and several other factors...
more >   comment

Are you new to franchising or an old hand at being your own boss? The executives at Franchise Business Review share their insights into the ever-changing and ever-challenging world of franchising.

BLOG POST | FEBRUARY 3, 2012

Every Brand Needs a Jerk

I just read an article in Inc. magazine titled, “Why every company needs a jerk.” In a nutshell, the article says smart entrepreneurs have someone by their side who will be brutally honest when leaders need it most.
more >   comment

BLOG POST | JANUARY 30, 2012

I'm Not Going to Tell You We Told You So

It gets pretty old saying the same things over and over again, so it’s so great when someone else says it for us. A recent article on cnbc.com says what we’ve been saying: Franchise brands need to find new and different ways to get their information out on the internet and to validate their brands because prospective franchisees won’t necessarily go directly to them in the early stages of their research.
more >   comment

BLOG POST | JANUARY 9, 2012

What's Your Franchisor's Leadership Approach?

When it comes to business books, more ink (virtual or real) has been dedicated to the topic of leadership than nearly any other. This month, Bark Busters COO Bill Marino shares why it seems that every notable CEO, politician, military general, and even celebrities and sports figures are compelled to publish their respective takes on leadership...it matters!
more >   comment

BLOG POST | JANUARY 9, 2012

FBR in the News

2011 was a big year for Franchise Business Review in the news. Here’s a glimpse at just some of the places FBR’s research appeared.
more >   comment

BLOG POST | JANUARY 4, 2012

How to Select the Right Speakers for Your Franchise Convention

Selecting the right speakers for your event can be the most important marketing decision of the year. Katrina Mitchell with SPEAK! shares some tips on how to pull that right speaker in for your franchisee conventions.
more >   comment (1)

BLOG POST | DECEMBER 22, 2011

Do you want to be a business owner or own a business?

One of the biggest mistakes people make when thinking of franchising as a career option is not properly evaluating the personal commitment it requires to run a small business. Many people fall in love with the idea of becoming their own boss, but are not ready to run a business successfully. Being unhappy with your current career, disliking your boss or wanting to work in a new industry all together are all reasons for wanting to go into business for yourself – but do you really have what it takes? This month, Right at Home shares the self-evaluation process of selecting a franchise.
more >   comment

BLOG POST | DECEMBER 22, 2011

2012’s Top Business Sales Trends

Dave Mattson with Sandler Training discusses sales trends for businesses, and what to look for in the upcoming year; from those trends and from his blogs.
more >   comment

BLOG POST | DECEMBER 21, 2011

Love and Marketing

Joey St. John of JumpBunch shares this month how finding love and marketing a company are similar in that you can't just jump in and expect it to work the first time. You have to make a connection and build trust to form a lasting relationship.
more >   comment

BLOG POST | DECEMBER 15, 2011

Leadership

Reed Nyffeler of Signal 88 Security is back with a guest blog on leadership, how it's important to any organization and the best qualities a leader should have in order to be successful.
more >   comment

BLOG POST | DECEMBER 6, 2011

How Important is Culture?

John DeHart of Nurse Next Door shares this month why it is that team culture is so important, and why prospective franchisees should make sure to choose a franchise opportunity that reflects the type of culture they believe in.
more >   comment

BLOG POST | DECEMBER 6, 2011

'Tis the Season to Celebrate...and Prepare to Execute a Plan to make 2012 a Great Year

In Bark Busters blog post this month, Bill Marino, COO, discusses planning ahead and why those contemplating purchasing a franchise should make sure to inquiry about the franchisors' annual plans, and the process they follow. Planning is the first step, but executing that plan is what makes the difference.
more >   comment (1)

BLOG POST | DECEMBER 1, 2011

Key Performance Indicators

This month, Steve Tanner of TGA Premier Junior Golf talks about Key Performance Indicators or KPI's and how franchise prospects should know what these are when looking at a franchise system, and ask about them as part of their due diligence.
more >   comment

BLOG POST | NOVEMBER 30, 2011

No Excuses!

“We don’t have time.” “It’s too expensive.” “We don’t need more data.” Even though franchisor transparency has become a must-have for franchisees and buyers investigating a brand, we still sometimes hear the same old excuses for why a company doesn’t want to survey its franchisees with Franchise Business Review.
more >   comment

BLOG POST | NOVEMBER 18, 2011

Quantity vs. Quality

Have you ever been asked at checkout if you have a rewards card, and if you don’t would you like one? It’s virtually impossible to escape that question these days if you purchase anything from anywhere. Joey St. John of JumpBunch is no stranger to this practice being a veteran of the retail industry, and he's seen the results that can come from that simple procedure. What he really wants to discuss this month is the question of quantity versus quality.
more >   comment

BLOG POST | NOVEMBER 17, 2011

How Business Can Lessen Their Sales Anxiety - Step 5

Last month Dave Mattson of Sandler Training shared more advice when it comes to sales: don't practice on your prospects, be prepared. This month, he gives his final tip in lessening sales anxiety: rehearse and refine your sales messages again and again, enabling you to catch a psychological wind.
more >   comment

BLOG POST | NOVEMBER 11, 2011

A Salute to our Veterans

In honor of veterans everywhere on this Veterans Day 2011, the team here at Franchise Business Review is proud to present the first-ever special report... Veterans and Franchising. Thank you for your service to our country, and please enjoy this unique report that explores today's top-rated franchise opportunites based exclusively on the independent satisfaction ratings and reviews by nearly 2,000 military veteran franchise owners.
more >   comment (2)

BLOG POST | NOVEMBER 7, 2011

Recognizing Your Limits and Finding the Perfect Sidekick

Batman and Robin. Joe Montana and Jerry Rice. Harry Potter and Ron Weasley and Hermione Granger. What do almost all super achievers, real or fictional, have in common? They can’t do it on their own! Joan Trinka of Bark Busters shares one of the most important things to realize as you’re starting your own franchise business: you shouldn't have to do it on your own.
more >   comment (1)

BLOG POST | NOVEMBER 3, 2011

What's the Profit? "Owner's Discretionary Income"

Everyone wants to know the same thing when analyzing a business – what’s the profit? This month, Steve Tanner of TGA Premier Junior Golf shares an equation that helps to determine the value a business delivers to its owner, because "profit" isn't as simple as looking at the bottom line of a P&L statement.
more >   comment (1)

BLOG POST | OCTOBER 28, 2011

A Handful of Helpful Tips for Any Franchisee

This month Michelle Wiginton of Just Between Friends shares some helpful tips with a shake of the hand, the fingers on that hand rather. Each finger on your hand can be used to remember five important tips on implementing a new idea.
more >   comment

BLOG POST | OCTOBER 28, 2011

The Value of an Annual Conference

This month John DeHart of Nurse Next Door shares how to gain value from an annual conference, that the quality of the content is just as important as the relationships nurtured there. Discussing relevant topics are key to helping the system grow, and for showing potential candidate researching these system just how serious the franchise is on helping to grow your business.
more >   comment

BLOG POST | OCTOBER 21, 2011

Practice Makes Permanent

Read this quote slowly: “The other seven swimmers in the pool do not affect me at all unless I let them.” Natalie then went on to say, “If I focus on anything other than my race, I find it difficult to swim in a straight line.” This months blog from Joey St. John of JumpBunch will explain how this quote relates to franchising.
more >   comment

BLOG POST | OCTOBER 21, 2011

How Business Can Lessen Their Sales Anxiety - Step 4

Last month Dave Mattson of Sandler Training wrote about how much success for many small businesses and entrepreneurs hangs on their ability to sell products and services to their customer base. This month, he shares more advice when it comes to sales: don't practice on your prospects, be prepared.
more >   comment

BLOG POST | OCTOBER 5, 2011

Spouses as Business Partners - Harder than Marriage?

Before going into business with a spouse, there are many things to consider that may make executing a successful and enjoyable business partnership even harder than making a marriage work. Joan Trinka of Bark Busters discusses the considerations to take, and how an important part of assessing if you and a spouse can work together in business is to objectively recognize both the strengths and weaknesses of each person.
more >   comment

BLOG POST | SEPTEMBER 29, 2011

Important Questions Potential Franchisees Should Ask

After you’ve read the FDD and you are diving into your due diligence, there are some things you should consider before signing the dotted line. Eric Little, Right at Home’s VP of franchise development, takes a look at some important questions potential franchisees should be asking. Take a look at his perspective in this guest blog.
 
more >   comment (1)

BLOG POST | SEPTEMBER 28, 2011

Buying a Franchise Shouldn't Feel Like Buying a Car

Having just gone through the process of purchasing a car, Steve Tanner with TGA Premier Junior Golf developed a topic for this months blog: Franchise vs Car Sales. During the process, Steve concluded there are two types of sales - good and awful. He has seen this type of business in the franchising world as well, unfortunately, and shares how to tell the "good" franchise systems from the "awful".
more >   comment

BLOG POST | SEPTEMBER 28, 2011

Do you know when you are going to sell?

Many people go into business thinking that they will be in it forever. But few are. The reality is, things change as time goes on. John DeHart of Nurse Next Door discusses key assets that anyone going into franchising should know in order to maximize the value of their franchise.
more >   comment

BLOG POST | SEPTEMBER 23, 2011

Numbers Don't Lie

Numbers don’t lie. Your knowledge of your market and business will get you close. The hard work you go out and do will nudge you even closer. However, it is your attitude about everything that actually adds up to 100%. Joey St. John with JumpBunch shares an interesting fact founded by some math teachers in this month's blog about numbers.
more >   comment

BLOG POST | SEPTEMBER 22, 2011

How Business Can Lessen Their Sales Anxiety - Step 3

Last month, Dave Mattson continued his discussion on business owners lessening their sales anxiety by discussing how entrepreneurs need to become accustomed to discussing difficult subjects with their employees, partners, or customers. This month, he builds on that by talking about what to do before every sales call so that you become more comfortable and feel confident about what you're selling.
more >   comment

BLOG POST | SEPTEMBER 21, 2011

A Day in the Life of a Franchisee

The first thing you should know is there is no typical day in the life of a franchisee. You must be able to embrace change, remain flexible and think on your feet without allowing the stress and strain of the unknown turn your positive attitude to a series of negative experiences. Michelle Wiginton of Just Between Friends talks this month about what it's like to be a franchise and how it’s all a matter of choice; (Your choice!)
more >   comment

BLOG POST | SEPTEMBER 13, 2011

Due Diligence

What is the most important aspect of your due diligence while investigating a franchise? Without question its actual conversations with franchisees. That is going "right to the source" for accurate, front line data you can base your decision on. Steve Hearon of CertaPro Painters shares this month questions that have been asked of his own franchisees, and what should be asked to any franchisee in order to better understand what it's like within a franchise system.
more >   comment

BLOG POST | SEPTEMBER 7, 2011

Choosing a Recession-Resistant Industry

Joan Trinka of Bark Busters shares this month some pointers on choosing the right franchise opportunity, and what to look for to make sure that franchise is successful no matter the economic outlook.
more >   comment

BLOG POST | SEPTEMBER 7, 2011

When the Ink Dries

When the ink dries on the franchise agreement - is the franchisor still willing to consider their franchisees needs? This, with an example of a concept they use within their own system, is what John DeHart of Nurse Next Door discusses in his recent blog. What happens if a franchisee has second thoughts or wants to leave the system? Will the franchisor facilitate an exit, or hold the franchisee to their agreement?
more >   comment

BLOG POST | AUGUST 25, 2011

Franchisees are Quarterbacks and Franchisors are Coaches

What does football have to do with franchising one may ask? Steve Tanner of TGA Premier Junior Golf and his collegues believe that the best analogy in explaining the role a franchisor plays in managing its franchisees is this: the franchisees are quarterbacks and the franchisor is the coach. Both work together, the franchisor (coach) providing a strong system that the franchisee (quarterback) can use in order to become successful.
more >   comment (1)

BLOG POST | AUGUST 25, 2011

If it's not hard you must not be doing it right

Joey St. John with JumpBunch shares this month how critical it is to have the right perspective and expectations towards buying a franchise. Many franchise systems are great choices for those who want to benefit from a trails already blazed. The reality though is that no hard work is eliminated by doing this. In fact, if you don’t find yourself actually working much harder than in a regular job, you probably are doing something wrong. If your expectations are accurate and paired with a good system, that work will pay off in rewards and flexibility that go well beyond those of the traditional daily grind.
more >   comment (1)

BLOG POST | AUGUST 25, 2011

How Business Can Lessen Their Sales Anxiey - Step 2

Last month Dave Mattson of Sandler Training wrote about how much success for many small businesses and entrepreneurs hangs on their ability to sell products and services to their customer base. For business owners that have no previous sales experience the process of engaging a customer in a sale can be an extremely daunting prospect that can lead to a great deal of stress and tension.
more >   comment (1)

BLOG POST | AUGUST 23, 2011

What every Franchisee needs to know

According to John DeHart of Nurst Next Door, to build a stronger and better team culture, one needs to understand the dynamic and evolving relationship of franchisee and franchisor. John follows Greg Nathan's "6 Stages of a Franchise Relationship", and shares what they are in this weeks blog.
more >   comment

BLOG POST | AUGUST 18, 2011

Cruising through the Debt and US Economy

Cruise Planners asks, "Did you ever wonder what really drives the economy?" A little-known fact is that small businesses drive the economy, not the assumed “wars” that many think are the factor behind the economy’s growth.
more >   comment

BLOG POST | AUGUST 17, 2011

5 Tips: Certain things a candidate should look for when searching franchises

Michelle Wiginton of Just Between Friends follows up her July blog with five more tips on what potential business owners should look for when researching franchises. Many candidates struggle with finding the best fit franchise for them. Each opportunity looks exciting, financially-rewarding and almost perfect…but glossy marketing materials are not what make a successful franchisee, finding the right franchise fit for YOU, however, is a great start to your future personal and professional success.
more >   comment

BLOG POST | AUGUST 8, 2011

The Best Question to Ask your Potential Franchisor

What seems to be the best question a franchise candidate should ask any potential franchisor? John DeHart of Nurse Next Door says that there is one question that stands out as a best question, and that's the question of how conflicts are dealt with between a franchisor and their franchisee.
more >   comment

BLOG POST | AUGUST 8, 2011

Tenacity

Tenacity is never giving up. It means pushing through when you are too tired, think you are overmatched or don't think you can muster the physical, mental or emotional strength to put one more foot in front of the other. In his blog this month, Reed Nyffeler of Signal 88 Security describes how tenacity is what wakes you up in the morning after a late night of patrols to go out and face the next day with a fresh and energetic face. Tenacity is what picks you up after a major set-back.
more >   comment

BLOG POST | AUGUST 8, 2011

Top 5 Things to Ask Yourself Before Deciding to Become an Entrepreneur

Joan Trinka of Bark Busters discusses this month five questions you should ask yourself before choosing to start your own business.
more >   comment (1)

BLOG POST | AUGUST 5, 2011

Choosing the Right Franchise for You

Steve Hearon of CertaPro Painters has blogged previously on items of owning your own business, as well as the difference between owning a franchise over starting from scratch. Once you have done the self reflection and analysis necessary to determine if business ownership is right for you, and, you've chosen to go the route of franchising rather than go it alone, you are still left with a final, very large decision - which franchise should you choose?
more >   comment (1)

BLOG POST | JULY 26, 2011

From Firefighters to Franchisors

Firehouse Subs founders Robin and Chris Sorenson (also brothers) know what it takes to make a franchise concept stick—even in a sector as competitive and trend-driven as food. As they recently wrote in a guest blog for CNBC.com, however, it wasn’t always so easy.
more >   comment (1)

BLOG POST | JULY 21, 2011

How Businesses Can Lessen Their Sales Anxiety - Step 1

Over the next few months, Dave Mattson of Sandler Training will be sharing five steps that business owners can use in order to help minimize their sales fear. Step one involves realizing that selling is a science more than an art form.
more >   comment

BLOG POST | JULY 20, 2011

Invest in Lines, Not Dots

Steve Tanner of TGA Premier Junior Golf had the pleasure of hearing Mark Suster discuss his philosophy on why entrepreneur's should "invest in lines, not dots." In this post, Steve shares why the important thing is to gather enough dots to form a reasonable, consistent line; be objective about the analysis and then decide if that line is worth your investment.
more >   comment

BLOG POST | JULY 20, 2011

What Makes Our Most Successful Franchise Partner?

What makes a successful franchise partner? John DeHart of Nurse Next Door uses an example with home care to explain what a successful franchisee is made of. They need to be passionate about the system they are going into, as well as having great business sense.
more >   comment

BLOG POST | JULY 20, 2011

Resources for Financial Assistance in Franchising

Have you wanted to own your own business and wondered where you can find the capital to do so? Dan Hicks with Cruise Planners shares several franchise finance assistance programs offered that are meant to help you start that business.
more >   comment

BLOG POST | JULY 14, 2011

5 Tips for Finding the Right Franchise Fit

Michelle Wiginton of Just Between Friends gives us five tips this month on how to find the right franchise "fit". There are many contributing factors in making a decision to join a franchise community, but the five listed here are very important considerations to think about as you search for the right "fit".
more >   comment

BLOG POST | JULY 8, 2011

Corporate Advantage of Franchising

Often times the most successful entrepreneurs start businesses in fields with which they are familiar. They begin their businesses from scratch in an industry where they have extensive experience and feel comfortable taking the plunge into entrepreneurship. Right at Home believes that those entrepreneurs who are inexperienced can still become successful business owners as well; and that's through franchising.
more >   comment

BLOG POST | JULY 6, 2011

Franchise Versus Independent Business Opportunities

This month, Steve Hearon of CertaPro Painters shares several reasons why he believes franchising is the way to go when starting a business. Going into business for yourself is a big decision, but its only the first of several as you evaluate which path to take. Deciding on going it alone or joining a franchise must be taken as seriously as your initial decision to become an entrepreneur.
more >   comment

BLOG POST | JULY 6, 2011

10% Makes the Difference

Reed Nyffeler of Signal 88 Security prides his company in being different from competitors. In his guest blog this month, Reed discusses why it's important to always be ahead of the competition, and to strive to be at least 10% better than them in one way or another.
more >   comment

BLOG POST | JULY 5, 2011

Should You Hire Employees or Independent Contractors?

Among the many considerations to weigh when shopping for a franchise is whether you will need to hire workers to provide services to the business. Further, depending on the franchise requirements, you may be required to hire a specific classification of worker, namely, employees or independent contractors. Warren Jones of Bark Busters takes the time to discuss the differences between these two, and how understanding those differences can greatly impact you as a business owner.
more >   comment (2)

BLOG POST | JULY 1, 2011

Common Themes in Franchising

The overall franchise landscape is a very different place than it was five years ago. Thankfully, it’s also a different place than it was three years ago when the economy went bottoms-up. In a recent Franchise Times SuperBook article, FBR president and CEO Eric Stites discussed some of the common themes we’re seeing in franchising.
more >   comment (1)

BLOG POST | JULY 1, 2011

The #1 Trait of an Entrepreneur (and Successful Franchise Owner)

To be an entrepreneur, you need to be resourceful. You are not going to know all of the answers. In fact, you aren’t going to know many of the answers. From Nurse Next Door, John DeHart touches on how his company became resourceful and the philosophy they encompassed to succeed.
more >   comment (1)

BLOG POST | JUNE 30, 2011

How to Cook a Frog

You're probably wondering why this is entitled "How to Cook a Frog" when that really doesn't have much to do with franchising. Joey St. John of JumpBunch doesn't know how it relates either, but in his guest blog this month he ties the two together.
more >   comment (1)

BLOG POST | JUNE 23, 2011

What Do Your Royalty Fees Buy You?

Once you’ve paid the initial franchise fee for an “opportunity,” as Steve Tanner of TGA discussed in his May blog post, the question then becomes - what does your royalty fee buy you? The answer is different and more complicated than explaining a franchise fee – and it’s also more important.
more >   comment (1)

BLOG POST | JUNE 22, 2011

Why Sales Training Should Be Like Golf

In this months blog post, Dave Mattson of Sandler Training, touches on why businesses should look at sales training like playing golf. Golfers continuely work with coaches to improve their swing, putt and mentality in order to move up in the golfing community, just as businesses should do with their sales; continuely build on goals, routines and technique in order to gain success.
more >   comment (1)

BLOG POST | JUNE 21, 2011

Round Down to Improve Results

Realistic Item 19 help drive long-term franchise successWant to improve franchisee satisfaction, engagement, and overall performance? Start by setting realistic expectations from the very beginning. It sounds so simple, but very few franchise companies actually do it. And here's why...
more >   comment (1)

BLOG POST | JUNE 17, 2011

Big Isn't Always Better

This Friday, John DeHart of Nurse Next Door Home Healthcare shares how, sometimes, a bigger franchise system isn't always the better franchise system. He discusses how a lack of communication can cause frustration to build among the franchisees, and that when researching franchise systems to make sure one of their main practices is to keep in contact with their franchisees.
more >   comment (1)

BLOG POST | JUNE 15, 2011

Franchisee Performance: It's a matter of choice.

According to Michelle Wiginton of Just Between Friends, when starting a new business adventure, or refueling a current endeavor, the goal is to find success within your industry and enjoy each and every day of your professional journey. Along the way, each person involved with your business will have daily choices to make that will affect performance—either positively or negatively.
more >   comment (1)

BLOG POST | JUNE 10, 2011

Settling the Anxiety of Transitioning from Corporate America to Business Ownership

After 20 years in Corporate America working for First Data Corporation, Diane Huffer was comfortable. She had a good job, a steady income, and a solid employer. But even with her corporate success, and perhaps even because of it, the idea of business ownership was intriguing to her. Right at Home helps to subside those fears of transitioning into business ownership with their first FBR blog.
more >   comment (1)

BLOG POST | JUNE 6, 2011

Choosing a Location: The Importance of Exclusivity and Demographic Research

You’ve heard it before—location, location, location. Whether you are interested in a brick-and-mortar franchise or a home-based business, among the most important things to bear in mind is the viability of the location you are considering. Bark Buster's Joan Trinka explains that the most influential factors in your likelihood for success are the exclusivity and demographic makeup of the market you will be serving.
more >   comment (1)

BLOG POST | JUNE 6, 2011

Right People, Right Places, Right Time

Reed Nyffeler of Signal 88 Security discusses how managing a business requires time, energy, insight and patience (among many other things) in a recent blog. However, putting the right people in the right place at the right time can really make your life as a business owner a whole lot easier.
more >   comment (1)

BLOG POST | JUNE 3, 2011

Entrepreneurial Roller Coaster

Building a great culture in a franchise system is a unique challenge: at the core, it is a business relationship, which means there is inherent conflict built into the relationship. And that can make it challenging when trying to build a world class culture! By understanding Greg Nathan's "6 Stages of a Franchise Relationship", John DeHart of Nurse Next Door believes a franchise can build a strong culture.
more >   comment (1)

BLOG POST | JUNE 2, 2011

Common Franchise Terms

Dan Hicks of Cruise Planners shares the common franchise terms that everyone within the franchise community, and those looking to join, should know in his first FBR blog of the season. From a "Business Format Franchise" to "Trademarks", Mr. Hicks breaks down those terms that all franchise businesses use daily.
more >   comment (1)

BLOG POST | JUNE 1, 2011

Is Business Ownership for you?

It seems that almost everyone at some point has dreamed of owning their own business. It's the entrepreneurs of the world that drive free economies. However, business ownership is not for everyone. Wanting to own a business and truly having what it takes are two very different things. Steve Hearon of CertaPro Painters explains the benefits to owning your own business, and the key questions you should ask yourself before doing so.
more >   comment (1)

BLOG POST | MAY 26, 2011

Hiring is Not a Process; It's an Attitude

According to Webster's dictionary, a process is a systematic series of actions directed to some end; whereas an attitude is the way a person views something or tends to behave towards it, often in an evaluative way. To the Vice President of Operations at JumpBunch, Joey St. John, hiring individuals should be perceived as an attitude and not a process one goes through to fill a need.
more >   comment (1)

BLOG POST | MAY 25, 2011

How to Profit from Unsuccessful Sales Calls

Learning from experience, Dave Mattson, CEO of Sandler Training, shares how to benefit from sales calls that go bad in his first blog for FBR. "It's like baseball, where even Hall of Famers make three times as many strikeouts, fly outs and groundouts as hits. But somewhere along the way in my sales career, I discovered a way to win even when I lose."
more >   comment (1)

BLOG POST | MAY 24, 2011

What Does a Franchise Fee Buy You?

"Franchisors provide a model/framework for success. You want to build a castle and we provide a proven blueprint and the necessary tools." This is what Steve Tanner, COO of TGA Premier Junior Golf, shares in his first FBR blog of the year. He discusses what a franchisee should expect when investing in a franchise, and why franchises are considered an opportunity for entrepreneurs.
more >   comment (1)

BLOG POST | MARCH 24, 2011

Moving the Franchise Performance Needle

After six years of researching franchisee satisfaction and engagement, Franchise Business Review shares insights on the key drivers that really make a difference in franchise performance, and what the best franchise companies are doing to "Move the Needle."
more >   comment (1)

BLOG POST | MARCH 14, 2011

International Franchise Expo in DC April 1-3

Don't miss this year's International Franchise Expo (IFE) in Washington, DC - April 1 - 3. Come meet FBR in person, along with hundreds of franchise brands!
more >   comment (1)

BLOG POST | MARCH 11, 2011

Top Pizza Franchises for 2011

The sky may be falling for some major pizza brands, but current franchisee satisfaction research from FBR indicates that the pizza segment is performing better – and more profitably – than many other QSR segments.
more >   comment (1)

BLOG POST | MARCH 8, 2011

A Lean Compromise is Better Than a Fat Lawsuit

There’s a lot that goes into a franchisee’s satisfaction – or dissatisfaction – with a franchise system. And, as a recent Fast Casual article points out, there are a lot of little things a franchisor can do to improve franchisee satisfaction and avoid big problems.
more >   comment (1)

BLOG POST | FEBRUARY 3, 2011

What is a Franchise Discovery Day?

Discovery Day is an opportunity for prospective franchisees to meet the franchise corporate office team. It is a day spent with the team to get a feel for the corporate culture, as well as other departments of the franchise organization that support franchisees.
more >   comment (1)

BLOG POST | JANUARY 19, 2011

Even CEOs Need Coaching

When a franchisee steps outside of training they are usually the chief executive officer of everything! In theory, a new franchisee could perform each and every task impeccably themselves without any outside resource. Deb Evans, CEO of COMPUTER EXPLORERS, shares how, eventually, all business owners need help with their business functions, and a professional business coach can help owners improve on their performance, leadership and profitability.
more >   comment (1)

BLOG POST | JANUARY 17, 2011

Franchise Businesses: Doing More with Less!

According to the IFA’s 2011 Franchise Business Economic Outlook report produced by PricewaterhouseCoopers, the franchise sector will experience solid, but conservative growth this year, as the overall U.S. economy continues to improve. That’s good news for everyone working in the franchise sector, as well as those considering a franchise investment.
more >   comment (1)

BLOG POST | JANUARY 5, 2011

Senior Care Franchisees Wanted

Senior care and home health is a multi-billion-dollar industry that is only expected to grow. From a franchising perspective, the senior care industry—specifically businesses that provide in-home care to seniors—has weathered the economy far better than other, perhaps more established franchise models. Just one week into the new year, we’ve already seen a number of these senior care franchisors expand even further, opening new offices in cities around the country.
more >   comment (1)

BLOG POST | DECEMBER 17, 2010

Is there an App or Video for that?

To follow our "Franchises Embrace Social Media" post, Deb Evans of Computer Explorers writes about how YouTube is becoming a popular source for franchise companies to communicate with their franchisees and candidates. There may not be an app for everything you need but most likely there is a YouTube video. There is an entire list of videos featuring apps on YouTube! YouTube is one of the largest search engines today. Many of us are guilty of saying, “I will Google that” but now I hear “let’s search YouTube.”
more >   comment (1)

BLOG POST | DECEMBER 16, 2010

No Guarantee

Not even the best franchise system can guarantee financial success. There are steps that you can take to litigate risk of failure and improve your odds of becoming successful. It all starts with following a few practical pointers laid out for you in an article by Entrepreneur Magazine (with comments from our own Eric Stites).
more >   comment

BLOG POST | DECEMBER 14, 2010

Franchises Embrace Social Media

Different franchise systems are now using social media sites as a marketing channel to their customers, according to an article on Entrepreneur.com this week. Nearly 75% of franchise businesses are now leveraging social media, and 69% of consumers say they’re more likely to patronize a local business if it offers information on a social networking site.
more >   comment

BLOG POST | DECEMBER 3, 2010

John Jantsch's "How to Lose a Customer"

John Jantsch, author of “Duct Tape Marketing”, produced an article last fall explaining five ways that people can lose a customer. Getting a customer is hard work. Keeping them, or more importantly turning them into repeat and refer customers, requires an equal amount of strategic thinking and tactical action, but it’s where the real business building momentum is generated.
more >   comment

BLOG POST | NOVEMBER 18, 2010

8 Advantages of Investing in a Franchise

Opening your own business can seem scary when you are first starting out, but it does not have to be. By investing in a franchise business you can rest assured that you are opening a business with a history of success, while still rewarding you with the pride of financial independence. To help those thinking about a owning a franchise, the Roni Deutch Tax Center has put together this list of the 8 largest advantages.
more >   comment

BLOG POST | OCTOBER 21, 2010

What is so great about franchising?

In franchising, the success of both the franchisee and franchisor is truly dependent on the success of one another. The symbiotic relationship thrives on the willingness to prepare for success. Through consistent training, they strive to improve and to increase the system’s value. But each must be willing to invest in the other.
more >   comment (1)

BLOG POST | OCTOBER 19, 2010

How to Interview Potential Employees

Interviewing someone for the first time can be extremely nerve wrecking for a new small business owner. It is a good idea to prepare yourself with organized questions and a well thought out game plan. To help readers of the Franchise Business Review blog, The Roni Deutch Tax Center team has put together the following basic tips on interviewing potential employees.
more >   comment (1)

BLOG POST | OCTOBER 18, 2010

Starting a Franchise is NOT Easy...

Starting a franchise is not easy. In fact, it’s very hard. Deb Evans, President of COMPUTER EXPLORERS, shares how it may be hard to start your very own franchise but if you can find the right people to help guide you through the process, things are a little easier.
more >   comment (1)

BLOG POST | SEPTEMBER 29, 2010

Franchise before Start-up

Despite the misfortune that the business world has experienced this past year, many are finding opportunities to build their business in this downward economy. Franchising is one of them.
more >   comment (1)

BLOG POST | SEPTEMBER 21, 2010

If The Franchise Doesn't Come With A Marketing Machine, Keep Shopping!

Marketing machines . . . that's what separates successful franchisees from failing franchisees. As you're evaluating franchise opportunities, be sure to look only at those that come with a marketing machine!
more >   comment (1)

BLOG POST | SEPTEMBER 17, 2010

Franchise Mentorship Programs

The IFA's Franchise Relations Committee, along with FBR, would like to encourage all franchise systems to develop a mentoring program. Starting a new business can be frightening, even to those with experience. Situations may arise that can be unnerving and overwhelming. The IFA's Mentorship Program provides an expert in the field who will listen and give sound advice!
more >   comment (1)

BLOG POST | SEPTEMBER 15, 2010

8 Habits of Successful Business Owners

Successful small business owners often have a few common habits. The Roni Deutch Tax Center franchise team works with dozens of business owners across the country, and in our experience we often see these eight traits among our most successful franchisees.
more >   comment (1)

BLOG POST | SEPTEMBER 15, 2010

Buying a Used Franchise

If you're thinking of buying a franchise as a way to secure your future, you're not alone. The job market is still pretty tough and the competition for high-paying jobs is quite intense. Is it any wonder that people are looking at some career alternatives? Could becoming a franchise owner be a good one?
more >   comment (1)

BLOG POST | SEPTEMBER 14, 2010

Before You Buy A Franchise Get The Answers To These Three Questions

"Not long after I lost my job, a friend told me about this franchise. I looked into it and bought one." It may surprise you, but that's how -- and why -- many people buy franchises! Here are some other reason.... and 3 questions you must answer.....
 
more >   comment (1)

BLOG POST | SEPTEMBER 9, 2010

If Franchising Is Your Back Up Plan, Get A Job!

"I am between careers. I was laid off in January from a 27-year engineering career. I'm trying to juggle two possibilities at one time . . . (1) interview for jobs when they come up and, (2) look at franchise opportunities. I am continuing to research franchises as, frankly, a backup plan. . . I'd definitely like to get your opinion . . . ."
more >   comment (1)

BLOG POST | SEPTEMBER 7, 2010

Faithful Fastsigns

A lack of trust has formed between many franchising partners and their corporate teams. When franchisees feel as though their concerns and questions are not being heard there is breakdown in franchisee/franchisor relations... Catherine Monson CEO of Fastsigns recognized the need to establish a strong franchisee and franchisor relationship. Catherine has worked with the corporate team at Fastsigns to implement a strategy of "getting back to basics".
more >   comment (1)

BLOG POST | SEPTEMBER 1, 2010

Franchise Advisory Councils- The White Paper

Evan Hackel of Ingage Consulting shares his Franchise Advisory Council White Paper
more >   comment (1)

BLOG POST | AUGUST 25, 2010

5 Ways to WOW Franchisees!

I'm curious... how many of you already have programs like these running in your franchise system? What other similar ideas can you share with the group? Help me add 5 more tips...
more >   comment (1)

BLOG POST | AUGUST 18, 2010

I'm a CFE because...

"The CFE program is the only one of its kind entirely devoted to continued education in the franchising field," said Randy Burzynski, CFE, manager, franchise support systems, ADQSR, and chairman of the ICFE Board of Governors.
Deb Evans, President of Computer Explorers and a CFE herself, shares how being a part of this program allows franchisees and franchisors to gain more knowledge of the franchise industry. Whether you've been apart of the industry for years, or have just started researching, becoming a Certified Franchise Executive can make for a better franchising experience.
more >   comment (1)

BLOG POST | AUGUST 18, 2010

Common Franchise Myths Debunked

Unfortunately, there are dozens of myths about franchising that many consumers mistakenly believe. Investing in a franchise is a huge decision, and you want to make sure you are well informed before signing any agreements. To help anyone looking for more information on franchising, the Roni Deutch Tax Center team has put together the following guest blog debunking the most common franchise myths.
more >   comment (1)

BLOG POST | AUGUST 16, 2010

Franchisee and Franchisor Relationships

In today's market, brands need to be constantly evolving to meet the changing wants and needs of their customers. Franchisees need to be comfortable with constant change and franchisors need to be comfortable involving franchisees in that decision process.
more >   comment (1)

BLOG POST | AUGUST 11, 2010

Using Social Media In Your Search to Find the Right Franchise System

Most people today use the internet to evaluate franchise opportunities before they ever contact someone at the corporate office. Here are some ideas of what to look for and questions to ask when you finally do talk with their franchise development.
more >   comment (1)

BLOG POST | AUGUST 10, 2010

Find Your Niche Franchise

Franchising has provided the opportunity to invest in niche companies that offer specialty work for services ranging from environmental cleaning to concrete cutting. These companies are worth looking to invest in because they offer opportunities in markets that haven’t been saturated with businesses; they still have a lot of potential market share and not been fully capitalized on.
more >   comment (1)

BLOG POST | AUGUST 3, 2010

Local Marketing Techniques Launch Papa Murphy's Success

Papa Murphy’s has consumers lining up to experience the Take-'N'-Bake Pizza franchise. The serving process is innovative, convenient and is offered at reasonable price compared to dine-in pizza restaurants. However, it is not just the Take-'N'-Bake process that contributes to the success of Papa Murphy’s; it is the company’s local, community-oriented marketing techniques.
more >   comment (1)

BLOG POST | AUGUST 1, 2010

FBR Book Suggestions

Franchise Business Review would like to recommend some of the most informational and useful books to help perspective franchisees to make an educated decision when purchasing a franchise.
more >   comment (1)

BLOG POST | JULY 31, 2010

The Educated Franchisee: The How-To Book for Choosing a Winning Franchise Review

Franchise Business Review would like to recommend one of the most informational and useful books to help perspective franchisees to make an educated decision when purchasing a franchise.
more >   comment (1)

BLOG POST | JULY 31, 2010

Franchise Times Guide to Selecting, Buying & Owning a Franchise Review

Franchise Business Review would like to recommend one of the most informational and useful books to help perspective franchisees to make an educated decision when purchasing a franchise.
more >   comment (1)

BLOG POST | JULY 31, 2010

Franchise: Freedom or Fantasy? Review

Franchise Business review would like to recommend one of the most informational and useful books to help perspective franchisees to make an educated decision when purchasing a franchise.
more >   comment (1)

BLOG POST | JULY 31, 2010

The E-Myth Revisited: Why Most Small Businesses Don't Work and What to Do About It Review

Franchise Business Review would like to recommend one of the most informational and useful books to help perspective franchisees to make an educated decision when purchasing a franchise.
more >   comment (1)

BLOG POST | JULY 21, 2010

7 Most Popular Business Tax Deductions

The Roni Deutch Tax Center team put together a guest blog this month that consists of a list of the 7 most popular business tax deductions to help new business owners who might be confused about tax planning.
more >   comment (1)

BLOG POST | JULY 15, 2010

Why Consider Franchising...

5-Star Painting is back with a new blog post about why you should consider franchising. To be successful as a franchisee, the relationship between the franchisor and the franchisee must thrive. It's a way to be your own boss within a system with proven results.
more >   comment (1)

BLOG POST | JULY 15, 2010

Is Open Leadership Important To You?

This month, Deb Evans, President of Computer Explorers, gives us a look at open leadership and what it may mean to you. If there are certain attributes you wish to see in a leader, or yourself, perhaps the four talked about in this blog will help you assess a certain franchise system better.
more >   comment (1)

BLOG POST | JUNE 23, 2010

5 Tips on Obtaining Insurance for your Franchise Business

Roni Deutch Tax Center shares a few tips this month on what to look for when choosing insurance for your franchise. Finding proper business insurance can be difficult and confusing, but RDTC believes with the help of these tips, you'll be more at ease when doing the research.
more >   comment (1)

BLOG POST | JUNE 16, 2010

Satisfaction: It's Everything!

Satisfaction is everything! If a customer is unsatisfied with your product or service then they won't use your business again. When employees or franchisees are unsatisfied, sales drop and complaints start. Deb Evans, President of Computer Explorers, gives advice, from personal experience, about communicating with her franchisees and being open to their opinions.
more >   comment (1)

BLOG POST | JUNE 9, 2010

Entrepreneurship

For this week, 5-Star Painting talks about entrepreneurship and how it's connected to franchising. Franchisees are entrepreneurs and they fit the definition just right.
more >   comment (1)

BLOG POST | JUNE 8, 2010

Selecting a Franchise: Why the Day Spa Category is Worth Researching

This month, Thomas Scott of Showhomes Home Staging shares why researching day spas may be worth the time and effort. Day spas may make up a smaller category in the franchising world, but they have the largest growth in franchising opportunities.
more >   comment (1)

BLOG POST | JUNE 3, 2010

Franchise Opportunities in the Senior Care Industry

As the target audience for senior care services continue to grow there hasn’t been a better time to consider a senior care franchise.
more >   comment (1)

BLOG POST | JUNE 2, 2010

How to Make a Great Elevator Pitch: Part One

This weeks installment from 5-Star Painting is made of two parts. The first part is about making a great elevator pitch. An elevator pitch is a very short presentation, lasting the amount of time if would take you to go on an elevator ride from the lobby of a building to the top floor of your investor's office. 5-Star Painting supplies some scenario's for using an elevator pitch and key tips on what makes a pitch a good one.
more >   comment (1)

BLOG POST | JUNE 2, 2010

Elevator Pitch Part Two: Leadership and Acting

The second part to the Elevator Pitch blog is about how it improves leadership skills and helps make entrepreneurs successful in leading others. If you are able to demonstrate any of the key points discussed here during your elevator pitch, then you are on the right path toward great leadership.
more >   comment (1)

BLOG POST | MAY 27, 2010

Selecting a Franchise: 5 Tips from a Former Franchisee Turned Franchisor

Thomas Scott of Showhomes Home Staging shares a few tips on selecting a franchise that is the right fit for you. From someone who once was a franchisee himself, he knows first hand what it's like to be on the otherside.
more >   comment (1)

BLOG POST | MAY 26, 2010

How to Keep your Staff Motivated

This month, Roni Deutch Tax Center shares ways to keep employees motivated. This comes at a great time with the summer months ahead and everyone feeling the pull of nice days. Motivation can be hard to muster sometimes, but perhaps these tips can help you find a way to bring focus to the tasks at hand rather than the sunshine outside.
more >   comment (1)

BLOG POST | MAY 26, 2010

Language Barriers Affecting Business

There are thousands of different languages spoken worldwide. This week, 5-Star Painting discusses how living in a country where there is more than one language spoken can cause difficulties within the workplace. Patience and understanding are great qualities to have in order to override the frustration and intimidation of not being able to communicate properly.
more >   comment (1)

BLOG POST | MAY 19, 2010

Starting a Business

This week 5-Star Painting brings some insight into starting a business. Gain support where you can and know what you're up against when starting out. 5-Star believes that by being smart with the decisions you're making and maintaining focus on the end product and buyer, you will be successful.
more >   comment (1)

BLOG POST | MAY 19, 2010

Does Your Personality Fit the Franchise?

Deb Evans, CEO of COMPUTER EXPLORERS, shares with us this month some insight on the different personalities franchisors look for in prospects. The assessment is known as DISC which represents Dominance, Influence, Steadiness, and Conscientiousness. Read this months blog and see where your personality falls.
more >   comment (1)

BLOG POST | MAY 12, 2010

Why You Should Buy a Franchise

5-Star Painting shares five reasons why they think investing in a franchise is a good thing.
more >   comment (1)

BLOG POST | MAY 5, 2010

IFA's VetFran Program

This week, 5-Star Painting is reaching out to those veterans interested in starting their own business. The International Franchise Association has helped many veterans establish their own franchise. By working with the franchise companies themselves, the IFA provides discounts as well as other financial incentives to help our veterans get started.
more >   comment (2)

BLOG POST | APRIL 28, 2010

What Motivates an Entrepreneur?

Ever wonder what makes someone leave their job to start their own business? This week, 5-Star Painting discusses what they believe is the motivation behind an entrepreneur's decisions. It's never easy going off on your own, but true entrepreneur's have what it takes to succeed; hard work and determination.
more >   comment (1)

BLOG POST | APRIL 28, 2010

10 Common Mistakes Made by Prospective Franchisees

Roni Deutch Tax Center provides some insight on common mistakes made by prospective franchisees when choosing franchises. Overlooking these issues may cause problems in the future, and making a plan beforehand may save you the headache of dealing with these obstacles afterward.
more >   comment (1)

BLOG POST | APRIL 21, 2010

How Can Social Media Improve Business?

5-Star Painting discusses how social media has become a popular trend and how businesses should embrace being able to have a more personal touch with their clients.
more >   comment (1)

BLOG POST | APRIL 21, 2010

How to use Social Technology in your search for a Franchise.

Deb Evans, from COMPUTER EXPLORERS, gives some insight on social media. Learn how to find certain franchisors online and which social media platforms can help you get there. The use of social media can provide potential franchisees with information about franchises from a real time perspective.
more >   comment (1)

BLOG POST | APRIL 16, 2010

Selecting a Franchise: How well is the system documented?

Showhomes gives advice on how having online resources that franchisees can access easily makes for a better overall franchise system.
more >   comment (1)

BLOG POST | APRIL 14, 2010

Searching for Opportunities in Times of Obstacles

Learn more about how 5-Star Painting believes that teamwork and exposure to new tasks and functions is the best way for franchisees to find opportunities during an economic downturn.The use of technology may be the key to franchisees becoming cost efficient.
more >   comment (1)

BLOG POST | APRIL 8, 2010

Running a Business with Your Head in the Sand

Some franchisors still think they can run their brand without asking the franchisees what is working, what isn't. This "turning a blind eye" doesn't work for franchisor/franchisee relationship anymore! With the amount of tools available today there is no reason not to have this information to help you make smart decisions for your business.
more >   comment (1)

BLOG POST | MARCH 24, 2010

Secret to Happy Franchisees

Learn how top franchises, Showhomes Home Staging and Brightstar Home Health Care, maintain happy franchisees, top performers, and system growth.
more >   comment (1)

BLOG POST | FEBRUARY 19, 2010

Franchise Performance Resources

Here's a short list of incredible resources for franchisors and franchisees to help improve franchise relations and drive franchise system performance forward...
more >   comment

BLOG POST | FEBRUARY 18, 2010

FRANomenon: Social Media at the IFA

The New Girl assesses the franchise industry and social networking just one year in the making...
more >   comment (1)

BLOG POST | FEBRUARY 17, 2010

Technology at the IFA Conference

Sharing my favorite topics and take aways from the IFA convention this month in San Antonio.
more >   comment (4)

BLOG POST | JANUARY 19, 2010

3 Ways to Guarantee Satisfied Franchisees

Small Business Expert, Rieva Lesonsky, reports on Franchise Business Review's satisfaction surveys, transparency within your system, and the importance of the franchise relationship.
more >   comment (1)

BLOG POST | JANUARY 18, 2010

A Top Franchise Quick-Draw

In just a short two and a half weeks, FBR will join hundreds of other franchise companies, and thousands of colleagues and friends in Texas to reveal our Top Franchises for 2010.
more >   comment (1)

BLOG POST | DECEMBER 22, 2009

Holiday Shopping: Franchise Style

Discover how FBR's partnering companies can help guide you to the franchise of your 2010 dreams...
more >   comment (1)

BLOG POST | DECEMBER 8, 2009

They Are Coming...

Do you have what it takes to join them? FBR's 5th Annual Franchise Satisfaction Awards are under way...
more >   comment (1)

BLOG POST | DECEMBER 3, 2009

A Wealth of Franchise Relations Information

IFA Franchise Relations Committee Document Library... a great resource for both franchisors and franchisees.
more >   comment (1)

BLOG POST | NOVEMBER 23, 2009

Want to Buy a Franchise? The Wall Street Journal Reports

Wall Street Journal reports on Franchise Business Review, Our President, Eric Stites, and the importance of third party franchisee surveying... Read more!
more >   comment (1)

BLOG POST | NOVEMBER 5, 2009

Disney World may be the Happiest Place on Earth, but Here Are Where the Happiest Franchisees Live & Work!

With 5 years of franchise satisfaction research under our belt, we decided to take a look at where the most satisfied franchisees live and work in the United States.
 
more >   comment (1)

BLOG POST | NOVEMBER 3, 2009

Want to Buy the RIGHT Franchise?

The New Girl promotes FBR's webinar, Franchise Success: The Ins and Outs of Buying the Right Franchise. It will be held Wednesday, November 4th at 1pm ET and is free to register! Take a peek...
more >   comment (1)

BLOG POST | OCTOBER 27, 2009

Social Media "Savvy?"...

With the advice of a Hollywood pirate, The New Girl takes a look at the definition of being "Social Media Savvy," and gives just a few critical ideas that will keep you up to speed with your networking platforms.
more >   comment (3)

BLOG POST | OCTOBER 15, 2009

Calling all Franchisors for our 5th Annual Franchise Satisfaction Awards

FBR is on the hunt for franchisors up for the challenge of our 5th Annual Franchisee Satisfaction Awards. No risk, great data, why aren't you registered? 
 
more >   comment (1)

BLOG POST | OCTOBER 10, 2009

Tips from The New Girl: Bill Withers had it Right All Along

The New Girl delves into the words of an old classic rock song to uncover social media strategies for attaining franchisee satisfaction now...
more >   comment (2)

BLOG POST | OCTOBER 5, 2009

Risky Business...

Continuing from her last entry, Social Media 101, the New Girl discusses simple ways to avoid a Social Media storm...
more >   comment (1)

BLOG POST | OCTOBER 2, 2009

Got Satisfaction? And a great story to tell?

Attending the Leadership & Development conference last week confirmed business and franchising is changing. Thanks to social media and internet research, prospective buyers are more knowledgeable before they even have the first conversation with your corporate office. Franchisee (& Employee & Customer) Satisfaction is more relevant than ever.
more >   comment (1)

BLOG POST | SEPTEMBER 28, 2009

Social Media 101: Tips from the New Girl

What I've learned as a social media newbie turned groupie here at FBR...
more >   comment (2)

BLOG POST | JULY 24, 2009

Finding (and Keeping!) the Right Customers - An Important Webinar Series by Dr. John Hayes

From what we have seen in today's economy, it seems undeniably clear that finding and keeping the right customers must be a top priority. Recently, there has been a lot of talk about this in the franchise world...
more >   comment (1)

BLOG POST | JULY 1, 2009

Buying an Existing Franchise Business

Question: I am about to purchase a sandwhich shop near a 22,000+ student campus that is a Franchise store.  My question given the recession (if we are really in one), what is your opinion on this idea outside of the scientifcal and business facts needed to give an even more accurate opinion?
Thanks, Torrey
more >   comment (1)

BLOG POST | MAY 26, 2009

i9 Sports franchise opportunity investment

Q: What can you tell me about the i9 Sports franchise opportunity from an "outside voice." Thanks, Bo
more >   comment (1)

BLOG POST | MAY 15, 2009

Buying a New Franchise Opportunity

Q: What are your thoughts on investing in a fairly new franchise and what are the risks. The franchise I am looking into is less than 2 years old. What are your thoughts?
 
A: Be very cautious and approach the "opportunity" like an angel investor. (read full response)
more >   comment (1)

BLOG POST | JANUARY 21, 2009

Can you negotiate franchise fees?

Q: Are franchise fees negotiable? I was told by a certain franchise that the FTC regulations restrict this from happening. Thanks - Rob
A: Yes... franchise fees are negotiable! But...
more >   comment (1)

BLOG POST | DECEMBER 8, 2008

Is Now the Right Time?

Recently, I have been receiving dozens of emails every week from people wondering if now is the right time to invest in a business. This morning I received an email from a guy who's thinking about investing in a handyman service. My advice to him applies to anyone looking at buying a franchise right now - or really any time for that matter.
Here's my advice...
more >   comment (1)

BLOG POST | DECEMBER 1, 2008

Franchises vs. Business Opportunities

Q: What has been the feedback on waste management consulting companies such as Environmental Waste Solutions? Do you think that it is a good opportunity?
Thanks, Idrees
A: Survey says... NOT a good opportunity. Read more...
 
more >   comment (1)

BLOG POST | JUNE 13, 2008

Hungry for Franchise Success?

Whether you’re a fast-food junkie or just an occasional eater, quick service restaurants (QSR) are as American as baseball and apple pie. From Main Street to Wall Street, and just about every highway exit and rest area nationwide, QSR franchise options have exploded in recent years.
more >   comment (1)

BLOG POST | APRIL 21, 2008

Evaluating Franchises in a Down Economy

Just because the economy is down doesn't mean that a smart investment decision can't be found. In fact, I would argue it is actually a great time to look at investing in a new business -- as long as it has a history.
more >   comment (1)

BLOG POST | MARCH 26, 2008

Interviews, Interviews and More Interviews

We've been busy this week interviewing some of the best minds in franchising. We already have an archive of almost 40 interviews and this week alone we've added interviews from Two Men and a Truck, Bruegger's, Snap-on Tools and more.
more >   comment (1)

BLOG POST | MARCH 19, 2008

Bad Economy, Good For Franchising

It's common knowledge that the US franchising industry expands as the US economy dips. At first blush this doesn't make sense but let's break it down.
more >   comment (1)

BLOG POST | MARCH 10, 2008

FBR 50 Awards Announced

When nearly 45,000 franchisees talk about their franchise systems, they have something to say. The 2008 Franchisee Satisfaction Awards presented by Franchise Business Review highlights those franchises whose validation among their franchisees was superior in the industry.
more >   comment (1)

BLOG POST | JANUARY 18, 2008

FBR 50... The Anticipation is Building!

Just a few weeks away from the 2008 FBR 50, we are keeping busy collecting data, measuring franchise systems, and growing our client list!
more >   comment (1)

BLOG POST | OCTOBER 17, 2007

Franchising Going Green?

Franchising follows trend of capitalizing on the Green Movement. more >   comment (1)

BLOG POST | OCTOBER 10, 2007

Validation is Easy... HA!

I've heard franchisors mention that validation is easy for their prospective investors. What planet are these guys from? Have they tried it themselves? more >   comment (1)

BLOG POST | SEPTEMBER 21, 2007

Where Is All the Financial Information?

Why Financial Details on Franchises Aren't Easy to Find more >   comment (1)

BLOG POST | SEPTEMBER 14, 2007

Expectations and Angry Franchisees

Even the franchise systems with the happiest franchisees have dissatisfied owners. The reasons why these people are unhappy are a varied as the people themselves. more >   comment (1)

BLOG POST | JULY 31, 2007

Marketing your franchise to a moving target

Reaching the 21st century consumer. more >   comment (2)

BLOG POST | JULY 17, 2007

Advertising Funds - Part II

Part II of a look at advertising funds for franchise companies. more >   comment (1)

BLOG POST | JULY 11, 2007

Advertising funds for franchises

As part of many franchise agreements, franchisors require franchisees to contribute to an advertising fund. Sometimes these funds are national (i.e. McDonald's) ... more >   comment

BLOG POST | JULY 6, 2007

Make sure your spouse is on board with the franchise!

Including your spouse in your search for a franchise may help ease their worries and make for a more successful business AND marriage! more >   comment

BLOG POST | JULY 3, 2007

Home based franchising

A few examples of franchises offering home based opportunities more >   comment

BLOG POST | JULY 2, 2007

Things I've Learned... Continued

One of the things I realized early on here at FBR is how hard it is to find a good franchise information online. If you've done some research yourself you know what I'm talking about. If not, do a Google search for "franchise." Go ahead, I'll wait... What did you get? more >   comment

BLOG POST | JUNE 26, 2007

My First Post!

I'll start with the most obvious lesson in franchising: if someone out there has found a profitable business model, someone is offering a franchise of that model. Honestly, the number of franchise opportunities available is astounding and there is no doubt one that a perfect fit for you... more >   comment

BLOG POST | MAY 23, 2007

Richard Branson's "Luck"

I just read this in the May 14 issue of The New Yorker and wanted to pass it along. Richard Branson, CEO of Virgin Atlantic (and about 130 other "Virgin" brands) says about entrepreneurship
more >   comment

BLOG POST | MAY 22, 2007

The Art of Selling ... What techniques work well for you?

The ability to market (sell) your business to the public could be one of the most important steps to succeeding. Franchisors are not only selling products to consumers ... but they are also convincing other entrepreneurs to buy in to their businesses. more >   comment

BLOG POST | MAY 16, 2007

Getting things done

Entrepreneurs are often go-getters; people that can do anything ... for anyone ... and, yes, sometimes overcommit. I recently read David Allen's, Getting Things Done and found it one of the most helpful books I've read in 2007. A quick excerpt on the five phases of project planning. more >   comment

BLOG POST | APRIL 30, 2007

Betting on the established brand or the hot, new franchise concept?

I am often asked whether or not it is a good idea to invest in a “hot, new franchise concept” or to go with a “safe” established brand. Certainly, established franchise brands typically have a higher success rate as compared to younger franchise systems. Yet, while investing in a new franchise concept may come with higher risks, the return on your investment, if successful, may be higher as well. Which is right for you? The answer really depends on two factors: you and the franchise itself. more >   comment

BLOG POST | APRIL 25, 2007

Not Necessarily a Franchise

It’s a common misunderstanding that businesses with many locations are all franchises. In fact, many of the places you frequent on a daily basis are NOT franchises at all, but corporate-owned and operated stores. For example, FedEx/Kinkos, The Gap, Red Lobster and yes, even Starbucks are NOT franchises. more >   comment

BLOG POST | APRIL 25, 2007

Show Me the Money!

I can’t tell you how many times I’ve been asked by someone thinking about investing in a franchise “How much money can I make?” It’s far and away the number one question prospective franchisee want answered. And why not? Isn’t money the primary reason most people go into any business? I love my job and the work I get to do helping people discover the best franchise opportunities in the marketplace today – but heck, if it weren’t for the equity I’m building as part of owning my own business, I’d rather be fishing! more >   comment

BLOG POST | APRIL 25, 2007

The ultimate form of entrepreneurship

A few questions to start: What are the keys to franchising? How do you (or I) know if franchising is right for me? And the frequently asked, “What are the hot franchises right now?” Most of these questions will be covered in the articles and resources section in the upcoming Franchise Center and while I may not know what the hot concepts are, I can try to provide you with the information and guidance to make a more educated decision yourself. more >   comment

BLOG POST | APRIL 24, 2007

Life Is Short

Last week was a tough week. Hundreds of people lost their lives in the escalating war in Iraq. The Virginia Tech massacre left 33 students and faculty dead and 29 others injured. A neighbor of mine was killed in a car accident, leaving behind his wife and three young kids. So much tragedy. So much loss. Yet for most of us, life continues on. more >   comment

BLOG POST |

Is now a good time to buy a franchise?

With bad news on the economy and instability in the job market, there are a lot of people questioning if it is a good time to think about buying into a franchise system.
more >   comment (1)