MAIN Business Small Business Franchises

Are you thinking of opening a franchise? There's lots to learn before you make the leap into this unique form of self-employment.

Franchises provide those with limited cash to run their own businesses, but it's not entirely a free ride. You'll have to stick closely to the system laid out by the franchiser, who has the ultimate say on how you run your business and make a profit, or hire & train your employees.

On the Web, learn whether or not you may be cut out for the franchise game - with discussions on promise and pitfalls, pros & cons, major companies to contract with, contract negotiating, and the jargon & buzzwords of franchising ...

StartupJournal | Franchising - Maybe the only resource you'll ever need in terms of what questions to ask, what pitfalls to watch out for and more on the nitty-gritty of franchise operations with a cache of information-rich stories from the Wall Street Journal, including how to interpret the Uniform Franchise Offering Circular (UFOC), reading the contract, preparing an exit strategy, and lots more.

The Franchise Prospector - The online journal featuring a directory of U.S., Canadian and international franchise opportunities, plus related story articles, guides & a list of what's hot and popular in franchising right now.

FranchiseGator.com - Related story articles plus information on featured franchises from big name companies you'll recognize, together with a searchable directory of franchise opportunities, and browse around the left-hand menu for more resources, free newsleter, FAQ.

International Franchise Association - Clearinghouse of news & information on over 1,000 opportunities plus guides to minority franchising, advice & how to's for finding the right franchise, online forum, suggested reading and related links.

Franchise Times - Check out their annual Top 200 list of choice franchises in the U.S. along with feature cover story and more with paid subscription.

Franchise World - Online UK magazine with guides for beginners on pros and cons, buying tips, a glossary of industry jargon & buzz words, franchise classifieds.

also see feature story -> Franchise Do's & Don'ts

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