Finding the Perfect Franchise Model for Your Business

"Follow the system" is a mantra in franchising and critical to a franchisee's success. 

In this light, many view franchising as a commitment much like a marriage. A good match between franchisor and franchisee, sharing mutual goals over the long term, is essential to the success of each franchise unit, and thus the brand as a whole — an essential factor that must be considered seriously by both parties before any contract is signed.

Years ago, the most well-known franchise was the customary brick-and-mortar location, like for example, fast food eateries and retail facades. Present day innovation has conveyed an assortment of plans of action to the commercial center that offers a few distinct models to look over.

Home-based businesses

Home-based businesses are very popular these days since technology has made it possible to perform many business activities remotely. These businesses include accounting and professional services, consulting, digital and other marketing services and a variety of other models. These franchise models offer owners many benefits including lower operating overhead costs, fast and easy startup and the convenience of working from home. Consider the following when evaluating a home-based franchise business:

Are you a good time manager? Working from home allows you to live and work in the same place, which is great for some but a nightmare for others. Many have a hard time concentrating on work with the distractions of home such as children, pets, spouse or even TV or home projects. On the other hand, many struggle with stopping the work to enjoy family time.

You should give yourself specific starting and ending times to create a regular work schedule.

Have a door with a lock. You will need to have a private and professional workspace. Additionally, it is equally important for you to be able to shut the office door at the end of the day and focus on home life.

Brick-and-mortar businesses

Brick-and-mortar locations include the standard restaurants, retail, hotel, storefront, and offices. This model offers the potential benefit of walk-in traffic which may be a better fit for someone who is more comfortable having customers come to them as opposed to business models that require outbound marketing or sales. This model generally requires more planning and related expense due to the build-out and construction of the site before opening. Before you decide to open a brick-and-mortar franchise, you will want to keep the following items in mind:

Location is said to be the three most important factors in the success of a brick-and-mortar business. Proper due diligence is mission critical to ensure the best location. The franchisor may offer site selection assistance or refer you to qualified service providers that can help you find the best options.

Use a qualified commercial real estate broker. You should interview a few brokers to make sure that you find one that you feel will best serve your needs. You may find a broker that has experience in your specific business category, which can be an added benefit.

Mobile businesses

Some business owners prefer to work out in the field as opposed to being tied to an office or storefront. Mobile businesses can be flexible and offer lower startup costs. These businesses include food trucks, home and business repair and maintenance services, pet grooming and other creative service models. Here are a few things to consider:

Make sure that your franchisor offers a strong marketing program. Mobile businesses do not have the benefit of walk-in traffic so they must generate all of their business with outbound marketing efforts.

Use technology to maximize your efficiency: Time is money as they say, especially when you have to factor in travel time between paying jobs. On-demand scheduling apps, mobile point of sale systems and communication tools can add to your bottom line when implemented properly.

When you decide that the franchise model is right for you, you’ll have only answered the first of many questions that need to be addressed before you invest.