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| Understanding the Franchise Agreement |
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| Written by Rick Bisio |
| Sunday, 14 December 2008 08:06 |
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So far, it's been kind of entertaining, hasn't it? This whole 'franchise education' process? You've told your friends that you're thinking of being your own boss, you've found a franchise that seems to fit your goals and desires, you've talked to existing franchisees and now it's time to read the Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD) and Franchise Agreement. Ugh. It looks and feels heavy and legal. No fun. Scary even. Rest assured that fear at this point is normal and healthy. What you don't know is that the franchise disclosure document you hold in your hands is a lot friendlier than it looks. It is a standardized document, brimming with franchise information. You've probably heard that it's written to protect the franchisor; you should also know that it protects the franchisee by leveling the playing field. The franchisor is required to share franchise information in a clear, transparent manner. In turn, all prospective franchisees clearly know their rights and will be asked to meet the same standards. So put yourself in a positive state of mind and dive in. Commit your entire attention now rather than making assumptions that may turn out to be erroneous. You don't want to count on using equipment you already own, or adding your wife's special carrot cake to the menu, only to find out that's not part of the business model. Franchise systems work best when there are clear systems, standards and expectations. The value of your franchise is enhanced and the brand is strengthened when all franchisees offer consistently superior products and services. The FDD covers every facet of the business, including: 1. What is covered in your franchise fee and initial investment 2. Physical property requirements, such as the location, building, equipment and supplies 3. A definition of the operating practices which protect the entire franchise system 4. Initial and on-going training and assistance provided by the franchisor 5. Whether advertising will be local or national and if the cost will be shared 6. How royalties are calculated and paid 7. Bookkeeping, accounting and reporting requirements 8. The parameters of your protected territory 9. More, much more Give special attention to the territory. This is one area of the Franchise Agreement that can be negotiable. For more information on all the sections in the FDD and what to look for in each section, read Chapter 7 of The Educated Franchisee. Examining the FDD and the Franchise Agreement is a crucial part of your franchise education! Go over each section carefully and be sure you understand how each item will affect you. A good franchisor will spend whatever time necessary to help you become comfortable with these documents. In the end, you might decide you can't live with the terms. Best to learn that now! And remember - at this stage of the franchise investigation fear is normal. Let it push you to seek the information you need to make the right decision for you. About the Author: Rick Bisio is the author of the highly acclaimed franchise training book, The Educated Franchisee; the book is all about the work that Mr. Bisio does every day in his own franchise consulting and mentoring business. Rick freely shares his experiences and advice regarding business ownership and franchising in his monthly newsletter; visit The Educated Franchisee to subscribe Kindly provided by MoneyHunter.org You are welcome to use this article on your own website, if you include the link just before this text. |
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