In a franchise business, an individual or group (the franchisee) is granted the right to operate a business using the branding, products, and processes of an existing company (the franchisor).
The franchisor has hopefully invested time & energy developing their business and the franchisee can save this time & energy by purchasing the right to operate the franchise.
There are a number of elements that normally make up a franchise business
These include:
A Franchise Agreement – The franchisor provides the franchisee with a detailed franchise agreement, which outlines the terms and conditions of the franchise relationship, including the initial franchise fee, royalties, advertising fees, and other obligations and restrictions.
Branding and Processes – The franchisor provides the franchisee with the necessary branding materials, training, and support to help them operate the business according to the franchisor’s established standards and processes.
Initial Investment – The franchisee pays an initial investment to the franchisor, which typically covers the cost of training, equipment, inventory, and other startup costs. This fee can vary greatly depending on the franchise system.
Ongoing Fees – The franchisee pays ongoing fees to the franchisor, including royalties, which are typically a percentage of the franchisee’s gross sales, and advertising fees, which are used to promote the franchise system as a whole.
Support – The franchisor provides ongoing support to the franchisee, including training, marketing materials, and access to the franchisor’s network of suppliers and other resources.
Autonomy – While the franchisee is required to operate the business according to the franchisor’s established standards and processes, they still have a degree of autonomy in terms of day-to-day operations and business decisions.
Overall, the franchise model provides a way for entrepreneurs to own and operate their own businesses while benefiting from the established brand, systems, and support of an existing company.
What are the benefits of a franchise business for a franchisee?
Franchisees can get a tremendous benefit from a franchise business. One of the main benefits is that the franchise business has taken the time and energy to develop a business model that is more likely to succeed.
It has been reported that almost 60% of small businesses fail within their first three years in the UK. By contrast, according to the British Franchise Association/Natwest Franchise Survey, 93% of franchisees report profitability & fewer than 1% of franchisors close per year due to commercial failure.
For investors that are looking to make a prudent investment, franchise businesses can offer franchisees the benefits of experience & can be clear about what it will take in order to maximise the chances of success.
There are a number of other benefits of owning a franchise business for a franchisee, including:
Established Brand – One of the biggest benefits of a franchise business is that it comes with an established brand and reputation, which can help attract customers and build trust quickly. Customers are often more likely to choose a well-known brand that they recognize over a new, unknown business.
Proven Business Model – Franchise businesses often have a proven business model with a track record of success. Franchisors have typically already tested and refined their products, services, marketing, and operational systems, which can save franchisees time and money.
Training and Support – Franchisees receive training and ongoing support from the franchisor, which can help them get up and running more quickly and efficiently. This can include everything from initial training to ongoing marketing, technical support, and access to a network of other franchisees.
Marketing and Advertising – Many franchise systems have established marketing and advertising programs that are designed to promote the brand and attract customers. Franchisees often benefit from these programs by receiving marketing materials and access to national advertising campaigns.
Reduced Risk – Franchisees benefit from reduced risk because they are starting a business with a proven model, established brand, and ongoing support. This can make it easier to secure financing and reduce the risk of failure compared to starting a new business from scratch.
Economies of Scale – Franchisees can benefit from economies of scale by leveraging the franchisor’s buying power and negotiating discounts on supplies and equipment. This can help reduce costs and increase profitability.
Learn more about the benefits of buying a franchise vs starting your own business.
Benefits for Belvoir Group Franchisees
There are a number of benefits to joining the Belvoir Group. We have particular expertise in property, with six successful estate and lettings brands. With over 450 offices, our franchisees benefit from our economies of scale and from the power of our successful brands. They will also receive best-in-class support – from training and mentorship, through to shop fit-out and marketing – we’re on the side of our franchisees.
The journey to being your own boss
Every franchise journey starts with a discovery day, which is an opportunity for you to have your business plans looked at, discuss your ambitions and finances and work out the best opportunity for you.
You will then have the opportunity to talk to existing franchisees and be matched with a Business Development Manager to work closely with you throughout your journey.
Research, financing and properties will be discussed further on down the line with branding and training becoming an integral part of your journey here.
To find out more about the journey to becoming your own estate agent, read our Belvoir Group Sales and Lettings Franchise Journey and How to become an estate agent with no experience articles.
