Multi-unit franchising is a popular business model that allows entrepreneurs to start a business with an established brand, products, and services. While franchising can offer many benefits, such as lower startup costs and support from the franchisor, success is not guaranteed. In fact, according to the International Franchise Association, about 20% of franchises fail within the first year, and another 10% fail within the second year. Therefore, having a clear understanding of one’s goals and planning for the future is crucial to building a successful franchise.
One of the first steps in building a successful franchise is identifying your reasons for starting the business. Are you looking to make a quick profit? Do you want to be your own boss? Are you passionate about the brand or product? Understanding your motivations can help you create a plan that aligns with your goals and sets you up for success.
Another common mistake that franchisees make is not having a clear end goal in mind. It’s important to consider what you want to achieve in the long term, whether that’s building a business that you can sell for a profit or developing people who can take over the business and allow you to have options and freedom in the future. By focusing on developing people, you can create a strong team that can continue to grow the business even if you step back from day-to-day operations.
While it’s important to have a clear end goal, it’s also important to enjoy the journey of building your business. Franchising can be a rewarding and exciting experience, but it can also be challenging and stressful at times. Therefore, it’s important to take time to celebrate your successes and find joy in the process.
Lastly, planning the exit strategy is crucial in franchising. Even if you plan to be involved in the business for the long term, it’s important to have a plan in place for when you eventually exit the business. This could include selling the business, passing it on to a family member or trusted employee, or simply stepping back and enjoying the fruits of your labor.
In conclusion, understanding your goals and planning for the future is essential to building a successful franchise. By identifying your motivations, having a clear end goal, enjoying the journey, and planning your exit strategy, you can create a strong foundation for your business and set yourself up for long-term success.
For more insight:
Visit the “Franchisee Succession: How to Grow & Build Value” discussion page or select one of the additional episodes of the series below:
- Understanding the Difference Between Estate Planning and Succession Planning
- Challenges and Strategies for Franchise Growth
- Building Resilience in Your Business
- Key Strategies for Retaining and Attracting Talent in Today’s Business World
- Expert Advice for Franchise Business Growth and Management
- Preparing for the Future as a Multi-Unit Franchisee
- Managing Inflation: Key Considerations for Franchise Owners and Business Leaders
Resources
- American Franchise Academy: assistance for franchise leaders in building a successful growing enterprise so that they can achieve their business & financial goals.
- Succession Readiness Survey: A 7-minute investment in time will put you in an informed position of opportunities many business owners overlook, impacting business value, growth, and lifestyle, and ultimately achieving your vision.
- Contact a Succession Planner: The Rawls Group can help you with insights and other resources and see if it makes sense to work together. At the very least, in 30 minutes, you may get some ideas you can apply to your business immediately.
Growth Strategies for the Family-Owned Business
If you’re ready to get serious about succession and planning to ensure your business’s future success, then we can’t wait to see you at the 2023 Multi-Unit Franchising Conference in Las Vegas
The Succession Planning Matrix
The Succession Planning Matrix
Many people put off succession planning because they think it means retirement, exit, and the end. However; succession planning is just the beginning. It gives the owner options in terms of what “their next” looks like, whether that be growth, philanthropy, or a new business venture. Our process focuses are addressing 10 key areas of what we call the Succession Matrix.
Click the following link for more drill-down resources on The Succession Matrix, or check out our Facebook post.
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We can help you with insights, other resources, and see if it makes sense to work together. At the very least, in 30 minutes, you may get some ideas you can apply to your business right away.
