Franchising And The Entrepreneur 451711

Franchising And The Entrepreneur

Based on the case study (“Firehouse Subs”), determine which of the three options executives are considering would be most beneficial to a single franchise owner. Explain your rationale. From the e-Activity, discuss the advantages and disadvantages of being a franchisee of the franchise you selected. Provide specific examples to support your response.

Week 2 e-Activity: Go to the World Franchising Directory located at . Select any of the hottest new franchises that interest you and go to their websites. View the site and identify the information about the financial requirements that you, as the franchisee, would have to meet. Be prepared to discuss.

Paper For Above instruction

The concept of franchising plays a pivotal role in the expansion of entrepreneurial ventures, providing pathways for entrepreneurs to own and operate businesses under established brands. In analyzing the case study of "Firehouse Subs," it becomes essential to evaluate the three options considered by the company's executives to determine which would be most advantageous for a single franchise owner. These options typically revolve around different franchise model structures, investment levels, and operational autonomy, each with its unique implications on profitability, control, and growth potential.

Assuming the options include a traditional franchise model, a developmental license, and a joint venture, the conventional franchise model often emerges as the most beneficial for individual franchise owners. This model provides a comprehensive framework that balances support, operational independence, and brand recognition. For example, in Firehouse Subs' case, selecting a traditional franchise would mean the owner benefits from established operational procedures, central marketing strategies, and brand loyalty, all of which can accelerate profitability and market penetration. Moreover, this structure typically offers training, ongoing support, and a proven business model, reducing the risks inherent in starting a new venture independently.

On the other hand, a developmental license might offer faster expansion opportunities but at the cost of reduced control and sharing of revenue streams with the franchisor, possibly diminishing long-term profitability for the individual owner. Similarly, a joint venture may involve shared ownership and decision-making, which could complicate operational autonomy and lead to conflicts of interest. Therefore, from a single franchise owner's perspective, the traditional franchise model aligns best with the goals of stability, support, and sustained growth.

Turning to the e-Activity, selecting a new franchise from the World Franchising Directory allows prospective franchisees to evaluate financial requirements and understand the investment landscape. For instance, considering a franchise like "Wildbirds" — a popular new concept in the food sector — the website indicates initial franchise fees, royalty payments, required liquid assets, and total estimated investment costs. Typically, an initial franchise fee may range from $20,000 to $40,000, with total startup costs including equipment, marketing, and initial inventory summing up to approximately $150,000 to $500,000. These financial benchmarks serve as a crucial evaluation point for prospective franchisees, ensuring they meet the necessary criteria for investment and operational sustainability.

Understanding these financial prerequisites helps entrepreneurs assess their readiness to enter the franchise system and plan for funding options such as personal savings, bank loans, or investor capital. The transparency provided in franchise disclosures and detailed financial requirements fosters informed decision-making, ultimately contributing to the success and growth of the franchisee within the broader franchising ecosystem.

In conclusion, selecting the most suitable franchise model depends on the entrepreneur's goals, risk appetite, and desired level of control. The traditional franchise model generally offers a balanced approach for individual franchise owners, combining support with operational independence. Additionally, thorough analysis of franchise financial requirements, as exemplified by recent franchise opportunities, is vital for ensuring a feasible and sustainable business venture. Understanding these factors enhances the potential for long-term success in the competitive franchise landscape.

References

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  • International Franchise Association. (2022). Franchising Overview. Retrieved from https://www.franchise.org
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  • World Franchising Directory. (2023). Search for New and Emerging Franchise Opportunities. Retrieved from https://www.worldfranchisingdirectory.com
  • National Franchise Association. (2022). Franchise Disclosure Documents and Financial Requirements. Retrieved from https://www.nationalfranchise.org