Suzana MikolovaUnderstanding the Basics Before Starting a Franchise
If you are an entrepreneur looking to start a new business, you may find that franchising is a viable option. This is because it comes with a lower risk of failure than other forms of business that are started independently. Also, most franchisors have an established base of customers and a recognized brand name. This ensures that the franchisees enjoy some brand recognition from the outset too. These are some reasons in favor of starting a franchise. To guide you through the process of obtaining a permit to open a franchise, the services of a Toronto franchise lawyer are essential. Here are a few basic aspects that you should be aware of when before a franchise:
Know how a franchise functions
Franchises are business systems in which the franchisor (company) permits the franchisee (independent operator) to distribute and sell its services and products with its trademark. To purchase the franchise, franchisees have to establish a contractual agreement with the franchisors. This agreement contains terms and conditions which have to be signed by the franchisee. These are largely binding. Therefore, it is important that the franchisee understand these terms before signing them. A Toronto franchise lawyer will be able to help the franchisee with this and ensure that the terms are fair. The franchisee then has to pay the franchisor a royalty fee and a percentage of monthly earnings.
Understand how you benefit from the franchise
Starting a franchise has numerous benefits to it. Firstly, it is relatively more affordable as a start up business than other independent businesses. Secondly, it affords better and quicker opportunities for expansion. Thirdly, it allows franchisees to achieve key goals for their business. Fourthly, it offers round the clock support on various issues. Some of them may be regarding: accounting, advertising and management. Fifthly, the products and services marketed by the franchisee will be those that have been tested and researched in the market. It is important to understand how you stand to benefit from opening a franchise and whether it is worth your investment.
What should be considered prior to buying the franchise
A crucial aspect that influences the success of a franchise is its nature. As an entrepreneur you may wish to start a franchise in an industry that you are familiar or comfortable with. Consider the franchise’s location and whether it will be conducive to bringing in customers. Inquire whether other franchisees have businesses in the same locality where you plan to set up shop. If they do, then it can reduce the customer base for all franchises involved. The costs involved in setting up the franchise and assistance in this regard from the franchisor (if any) is another aspect that will have to be looked at.
Another crucial aspect is the success rate of other franchises. If they have enjoyed good sales and have a loyal customer base, then your chances of succeeding with the franchise will be high. Once you are confident about opening a franchise, ensure that you hire the services of a reliable and experienced Toronto franchise lawyer.
