Franchising Checklist

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• Attend Franchise Seminars & WebinarsLearn from industry experts, franchisors, and consultants.  
• Read Franchising BooksGain foundational knowledge about the franchising process, benefits, and risks.  
• Consult a Franchise AnalystGet a professional evaluation of your business's potential to franchise.  
• Take a Franchisability AssessmentUse online quizzes or tools to gauge your business’s readiness.  

• Expand InternallyOpen new company-owned locations and maintain full control.  
• Seek InvestorsRaise capital to grow without franchising.  
• Consider Franchising Models 
  • Traditional Franchising: Replicate your entire business model under a brand.  
  • Business Opportunity: Provide tools or services without strict brand control.  
  • Licensing: Allow use of your IP without a full franchise agreement.  

• Evaluate the environment and professionalism of the team.

• Do they use proven systems?  
• Is work done in-house, or is it outsourced? 

• How long have they been in business?  
• Review their client portfolio and industry reputation.  
• Contact references to understand why others chose them and what value they gained.  

• Is their team collaborative and communicative?  
  • Are they co-located or working remotely?  
  • How often do team members meet face-to-face?  
• Will a dedicated project manager lead your franchise development?  

• Meet in person with consultants.  
• Speak with advisors, mentors, close friends, and family.  

• Financial: Can you fund the franchise launch?  
• Team: Do you have the right people to support franchisees?  
• Motivation: Are you truly committed to building a franchise network?

• Ensure they offer a proven system and a transparent process.  
• Visit their offices to assess culture and professionalism.  

• They will handle:  
  • Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD)  
  • Franchise Agreement  
  • Regulatory compliance  

• Don’t Make Assumptions

              Franchising success depends on preparation, not guesswork.  

• Don’t Rely Solely on a Lawyer

              Legal documents don’t build franchises—solid systems and support do.  

• Not All Lawyers Are Franchise Experts

              Ask about experience specifically in franchise law.  

• Being a Franchisor Is Different from Being a Franchisee

              Running a franchise system requires leadership, coaching, and operational

              support skills.