Low Cost Franchise Opportunities: Pros and Cons
Los Angeles, California (PRWEB) February 11, 2014 -- I am often asked by interested clients about the cost of franchise opportunities in Canada and where to start looking. Before they consider price as a starting point, I strongly suggest that they spend time reflecting on WHY you want to own a franchise and write down your reasons – most have three or four compelling reasons. This will be far more important than the price. For example, “making lots of money” is not a strong reason. It is an outcome of your efforts. You’ll have to dig deeper than that! Matching your unique skills and personality to a business model that requires those specific skill sets is far more important than anything else – period!
However, price consideration is a high priority for most. The real question behind the “how much” price question is how best can I manage risk? Clients are really asking for insight to:
1. How long to breakeven?
2. How long before I can start paying myself?
Low cost franchise opportunities can be a double edged sword. If I buy a franchise that is low cost, how much support will I actually receive from the franchisor. What level of training will they provide? Will the training last long after I open my doors or will it evaporate shortly after opening. What is the sophistication of their marketing program – in other words, how strong is the customer acquisition and customer retention program? As we all know, without customers your success rate will be challenged.
Some franchise systems will have a very low franchise fee in order to attract more franchisees, like Kumon for example which only has a fee of $1000 and has grown to over 25,000 locations. Do not be deterred if a franchise fee is too low.
Many are attracted to franchising because they don’t have to reinvent the systems that most small business startups lack. The franchisor has likely developed and refined many of their processes reducing administrative tasks allowing you, as the business owner, to focus on driving sales. Good systems cost money to startup.
The other side of the coin, how entrepreneurial are you? Some are interested in finding a franchise that allows them a fair amount of latitude to operate. They don’t want to be “pigeon holed” into a box. They seek freedom to operate and the autonomy to set their own schedule. Flexibility is an important criteria and often ranks higher than money.
From a banking perspective, when your small business managers evaluate a business plan, they will place a heavy weighting on how sophisticated the franchisor’s systems & processes are and the track record of the franchise. Banks, much like most business owners, are looking at ways of reducing their risk and having proven systems in place are an important consideration.
I have seen franchise fees as low as $8,000 that offer incredible value to their franchisees providing the continuous support setting them up for long term success while noting other more expensive franchise fees that offer very little long term value to their franchisees. Understanding the value proposition is a critical element to moving forward with your research of that particular franchise.
When looking at the cost of a franchise, ask yourself, what support do I get for my franchise fees and royalties and how will that address my original risk questions; How long to breakeven and the timeline to when you can start paying yourself.
#franchise opportunities Canada, #Canadian franchise opportunities
Dan M, Canadian Franchise Journal, http://canadianfranchisejournal.ca, +1 6049997630, [email protected]
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