Book Description

PRAISE FOR It's Not Where You Start, It's Where You Finish!

"Along her journey, [Hennessy-Ortega] has inspired, motivated, and encouraged thousands of women to believe they too can turn their dreams and goals into realities. You will love this book; it will produce incredible results in your life."
—Rena Tarbet, Independent Senior National Sales Director Mary Kay Inc.

"With a refreshing style all her own, Gillian Hennessy-Ortega uses her down-to-earth wit and wisdom to ignite your belief in what's possible, raise your level of expectation for your future, recognize your potential, and empower you to take a step ahead of the crowd and into a lifetime of success. A must-read for anyone committed to living their dreams!"
—Lisa Diane, author, When You Can Walk on Water Why Take the Boat?

"Gillian inspired me to reach for the level of excellence I had dreamt of. This book will encourage you, at all levels of your life, to reach for your highest accomplishments. You won't be able to put this book down. Inspiring!"
—Albert Pujols, First Baseman, St. Louis Cardinals 2001 National League Rookie of the Year

"In It's Not Where You Start, It's Where You Finish!, Gillian shares the nuggets of truth that ensure both starting and finishing with results and excellence. As someone who uniquely knows what it means to live the American Dream, she has made herself a master of life and business. Now, as master teacher, she is passing it on to you."
—Pamela Waldrop Shaw, author, Design Your Life 90-Day Planner Independent National Sales Director, Mary Kay Inc.

"Gillian inspires people to reach farther and stretch beyond the comfort zone and into greatness. She has practical, straightforward ideas and tools to help any organization or individual move to the next level of success. I would recommend this book to anyone who desires success in their life."
—Guy F. Hulen, Director of Human Resources Hong Kong Shanghai Banc Corp. (HSBC) ... Read more

Book Description

A colorful look at Avon's journey to the top
Avon is the world's largest direct sales company, with a record four million representatives in more than 140 countries worldwide. Its product line has expanded from cosmetics to vitamins, weight control products, clothing, and jewelry. In The Avon Story, author Laura Klepacki offers an in-depth look at how Avon grew from a small business selling books door-to-door to one of the world's leading cosmetics companies. Through exclusive interviews with company executives--both past and present--as well as analysts and other experts in the beauty and cosmetics industry, Klepacki reveals how Avon has built a global empire by addressing the needs and customs of women around the world as well as how it has managed to thrive in all economies even in tough times. Readers will also discover how this cosmetics powerhouse has maintained and increased its market share through new product introductions, the use of technology, appealing to different customers, including men and teens, rewarding its best performers, and giving back to society with financial support for such causes as domestic violence and breast cancer. The Avon Story also takes a look at the leadership principles that have allowed Avon to prosper over the years. Engaging and entertaining, The Avon Story offers readers a well-rounded account of one of America's most respected and successful companies.
Laura Klepacki (West Caldwell, NJ) is an experienced journalist who has covered beauty, marketing, and other consumer issues. She is the mass-market beauty editor for Women's Wear Daily, where she specializes in articles on the multibillion-dollar health and beauty care industry in the United States. She frequently travels to industry conferences to meet with senior executives and has close contacts with consultants and analysts in the cosmetics and fashion business. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Great Idea
I think it's a great idea to have some kind of knowledge in making this business a success for everyone.I never thought they would come out with a book, but if and when it comes out, I am going to read it!Great job at making something so lucrative in helping the women of today advance further! ... Read more

Book Description

For well over a decade, Franchising & Licensing has been the standard reference for industry executives, consultants, andacademics. Covering every aspect of these complex but highly profitable business strategies, the new third edition is applicable to domestic andinternational franchising initiatives alike. Every chapter has been brought up to the minute, with timely and detailed information on subjects such as:

* creating market-responsive sales, marketing, and globalization strategies * raising capital, structuring agreements, and protecting intellectual property * meeting regulatory, legal, and employment standards * establishing quality control and compliance measures * assessing opportunities for mergers & acquisitions, joint ventures, and other alternatives to franchising

Filled with illuminating examples, stories from the field, and dozens of forms for drafting franchising agreements and licensing programs, Franchising &Licensing remains the definitive resource for corporations in a myriad of industries. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Franchising for Dummies, by Michael Seid and Dave Thomas, details everything you need to know about this ever-popular route to self-employment. In typical Dummies fashion, it outlines the basics (from initial research through signing on the dotted line); development procedures (such as training employees, choosing locations, and buying goods); running the business (attracting customers, managing staff, dealing with franchisors); and moving on (considering further acquisitions, franchising your own ideas). Seid, a well-known consultant with 20 years in the field, and Thomas, the high-profile founder of and low-key spokesman for the fast-food chain Wendy's International, make this volume especially valuable by including inside tips taken from their extensive personal experience. "Too often, franchisees make the mistake of hiring an attorney to do battle with their franchisor, rather than simply sitting down with the franchisor, discussing their concerns, and coming to a negotiated conclusion," Seid advises at one point. "Training is nonstop, never-ending.It has to be," Thomas suggests elsewhere. "It has to remain a priority in your business because, one, you have turnover, but two, you can always improve." The combination provides a clear and complete primer for enlightened decision-making on virtually all aspects of franchise purchase and operation. --Howard Rothman ... Read more

Reviews (2)

A good helping hand
Despite my initial misgivings about a franchising book written by the late founder of Wendy's, I have come to like the book a lot, because it gives you exactly the information you need to (1) consider whether franchising is right for you, and (2) get started becoming a franchisee.

The book starts with a general discussion of what franchising is and what the different types and varieties are, then proceeds to discuss the most important topic of the entire book (and your decision-making process): is becoming a franchisee right for you. An entire chapter is devoted to this topic and it's an open and honest discussion with a focus on what *you* want out of franchising. After you decide yes, it's right for you, it's time to get your hands dirty, and the book gives you a lot of information on every aspect of establishing a franchise and running it. Luckily, the authors do not promote Wendy's blatantly, although there's little information on their hamburger franchising competitors.

I first read a library copy of this book but it was good enough for me so I bought my own copy. I'm considering joining the franchising army, even though the compenstation doesn't seem attractive esp. in the first few years. Maybe in 5 years I'll come back to this page and report my experience. :)

This book was published in 2000 but the information (except statistics cited) is quite up-to-date.

Thorough Overview of Franchising, Good and Bad
A thorough overview of the process of evaluating, buying, running, and selling a franchise. Definitely read through this book (even if only in parts) before you start to invest yourself (time and money) into a franchise. It is a frank, and straightforward book about a complicated subject.

Some clues from the book:

1) As a franchisee, you buy "the right to use the franchisor's expertise, brand name, experience, methods, and support." (pg. 14).

2) Although you get a proven system, the business is yours.
It is work and it is not for everyone. Successful franchisees must be very good operators who stick to the rules.

3) Franchisors vary. Since you will be paying a royalty going forward, make sure you do the research and know what you are getting for your money. A contract can be a life preserver and a trap.

4) The evaluation, preparation, funding, and negotiation for the franchise is paramount. This book gives detailed lists, and questions to ask before you sign on that contract.

5) Top two reasons franchises fail: 1) not enough money going into the investment 2) absentee owners

6) Factors in assessing your location: population density, neighboring stores (cross promotion), anchor tenants, traffic patterns, speed of traffic, seasonal factors, day / night, competition, security, access to employees, size of property, zoning, landscaping, parking, landlord reputation, visibility, signs, environmental concerns, title, buy vs. lease, hidden costs.

7) Royalties vary according to franchisors. Wendy's is 4%

8) In the end, franchising is a relationship business with franchisor, customers, other franchisees, suppliers, attorneys, bankers, and family.

9) When selling the franchise to others, the franchisor often has the "right of first refusal" which means they can purchase it on the same terms and conditions as the offer you received from a prospective buyer. Check this clause prior to signing.

10) Use the International Franchise Association's webpage:
www.franchise.org. ... Read more

Reviews (4)

Excellent introduction to Franchising
Hands down the best book I've read about franchising. It covers the topic in an easy-to-read fashion and doesn't oversimplify. Reading this will yield useful information to franchise novices as well as more seasoned entrepreneurs.

A great book for someone who has a concept they feel might be franchise-worthy as it can help you understand what needs to be done to make you successful with franchisees.

Great for prospective franchisees who get an understanding of what they should look for in a franchisor.

The examples/case studies are very good and demonstrate points effectively.

The only area the book does not touch upon in any detail are master franchise and/or area development arrangements that franchisors/franchisees sometimes have. But I cannot knock the book for this as most franchise books don't touch upon this at all.

Packed With Knowledge!
Being an entrepreneur who sells a brand name product in a consumer-conscious marketplace is an appealing way to make a living. It must be: the U.S. franchise market hit $1 trillion in sales in 2003. But franchising is a deceptively complex business for both the franchisee and for the franchiser who creates the idea, builds the brand, tunes the delivery system and maintains sensitive franchisee relationships. Franchisers build, deconstruct and syndicate businesses to those who may lack the experience to offer a specific service or product. Entrepreneurs with business acumen and a keen desire to build something for themselves often find that franchising offers many ways to create wealth. This meaty book thoroughly explains how you can succeed in a franchise business. Its nuts-and-bolts presentation is enlivened by case studies from Jiffy Lube, Bagelz, Dunkin' Donuts, Subway, Pizza Hut and McDonald's. We recommend it as essential reading for anyone considering buying or starting a franchise.

Great book, very informative
This book is like getting an education in Franchising. Very informative and well written. It's for anyone getting involved in franchising at any level.

Amateur franchiser thinks this is fantastic!
I found this to be a very informative and interesting book. It was well thought out, well organized and provided me with a ton of relevant and realistic examples and ideas. Well worth the time to read. A "must have" for any franchisee/franchisor -- regardless if you are an amateur or an experienced "wealth creator." (Great term...) ... Read more

Book Description

This new definitive guide provides clear, concise explanations for finding, buying, operating, and growing a successful franchised business from top experts from the ASBDC and the American Association of Franchisees and Dealers (AAFD).

Checklists, forms, worksheets, and easy to follow strategies along with a sample franchise business plan and contract allow readers to discover how to: evaluate a franchise opportunity, develop forecasts and budgets, estimate start up costs, and get financing. ... Read more

Reviews (9)

Simply the BEST
I have read 4 different books on franchising and would definately consider this one the best!

Opened my eyes
My husband and I are considering opening a franchise. Although we have business experience, neither of us have ever actually managed a retail store or food service establishment. We certainly had never negotiated a lease or franchise agreement. This book points out a lot of details that will help you protect yourself when negotiating with a landlord or franchisor. It also gets you to think about whether you are a good fit for this type of lifestyle and are you reviewing an appropriate territory for your business. I checked this book out at the library and now I am buying a copy so I can highlight it, make notes and such.

The Franchising Bible
Upon embarking on an endeavor to purchase a franchise business with my wife, we realized we knew nothing about where to start. We decided to start at the bookstore and purchase a book on franchising. We chose Franchising 101 because it appeared to be laid out in a format that was easy to read and follow -- we were right! This book has become our bible every step of the way. From analyzing the opportunity to digesting the UFOC, every question we have stumbled across has been answered by this book. In addition to the valuable information provided, we actually found our franchise attorney by contacting one of the contributing authors. Franchising 101 leaves no stone unturned in looking at this very important life decision. It is a MUST READ for anyone considering the purchase of a franchise business.

Practical Pragmatic Preparation
Practical, Pragmatic Preparation

Cooked up by CPA's, Attorneys and Insurance Brokers, with a dash of disgruntled franchisees and a pinch of fatherly advice from a Franchiser, this utilitarian dish is nothing if not healthy.

With a steady diet of this recipe, potential franchisees will leave the table full and satisfied and yearning for a VERY rich desert to make up for all the pragmatic, reasonable and intelligent ingredients used to prepare this three course meal.

Section 1: "Choosing Your Franchise" opens with a franchising history explaining how Singer Sewing Centers were the first franchiser in 1858. There are tales of early automobile dealerships, oil company and service station franchises, and motel chain successes that led to the explosion of the franchise phenomenon in the 1950's and 60's.

The most interesting portions describe the rise of Ray Croc's ëFranchise of the Centuryí, McDonald's. There's a promise of a "Good News Future" discussing the establishment in 1992 of the American Association of Franchisees and Dealers or AAFD, (the equivalent of a Franchisees union).

There are multiple warnings that you must be very clear of the large difference between an entrepreneur and a franchisee. It is simply stated that if you spend more time thinking about how things "could or should be" then it is likely you are an entrepreneur and franchising is definitely not for you.

Predefined trade dress, business practices, required equipment, signage, etc., are each carefully chosen and non-negotiable by the franchisee. Once again, the AAFD proudly defines newly negotiable items of contracts and leases while clearly stating that the Franchiser maintains the upper hand in all cases.

From the initial colorful history right into the bland body of "how-to" information through helping the potential franchisee to determine the selection, research, pricing, purchasing a franchise and choosing location and leasing details.

Finally there is a tale by a none too happy franchisee who thought long and hard but ignored danger signs in acquiring a business she had decided on before her research told her that this was a sour deal.

Section 2: "Acquiring your Franchise" is the main course and while definitely healthy and well prepared, it is something you read because it is good for you, not because you like it. This course is made up of a discussion of another acronym, the UFOC or Uniform Franchise Offering Circular. This is a federally mandated document outlining 23 tightly defined items which are illuminated to simplify them for the reader.

If you are purchasing a franchise, then this will always be the first and most important step in determining core issues about a particular Franchisor. Two attorneys walk you through the preparation of the franchise agreement, lease negotiation, incorporation, then come the CPA's with cash flow, banking, loans and business plans. It's all critical to those considering the purchase and highly informative as a checklist of important issues.

Section 3: "Managing your Franchise" is a discusses the managing, motivating, hiring and firing of employees. The bulk of this chapter is made up of more essential pragmatic requirements of market research, taxes, insurance, accounting, marketing and business management practices. This section chafes a bit with the fatherly advice of a franchiser who basically suggests that franchisees should respect their elders and be good kids and they will be rewarded with favoritism. Business should not be run on favoritism, but realistically, it's good advice as people skills often determine business success.

Altogether, what it all comes down to is that operating a franchise is serious business, that it takes money to make money, and that it will clearly be very hard work.

There are the benefits such as managing your own time, doing what you enjoy, scheduling your own vacations, and making major decisions without a boss hovering over you. It will leave those with a taste for perks and bonuses wanting. This is definitely your minimum must-have businesslike presentation without discussing even a few of the benefits of self-employment.

This step-by-step guide will no doubt be good for you if you've already firmly decided that franchising is the career path you wish to follow. Nothing is left out and there will be plenty of good information to answer your financial questions and set a course for smooth franchisee sailing.

After you make your decisions you'll definitely want to go elsewhere for convincing reasons to become a franchisee because Franchising 101 offers up only pragmatic, practical fare. This is the hard work without discussing any of the rewards to tantalize you and only a sad tale of one unhappy franchisee answer your questions regarding possible self-fulfilling careers.

A collection of experts.
A prior reviewer chastized the author for including information available through several other sources. I bought it because I didn't want to go to several sources, I got it all here in one book. I haven't been disappointed. I've read every word and recommend the book to anyone needing to know about key issues and concerns when franchizing. The contributors get to the point and let you know what you should and should not expect. Also, how to avoid pitfalls. Start your research here! ... Read more

Book Description

How To Buy A Franchise Or Franchise Your Own Business

Are you thinking of buying a franchise or franchising your own business? This indispensable guide tells you how to do it--and save time and money in the process. Franchise expert Erwin Keup shares 35 years of franchise experience to reveal what to expect and how to avoid costly mistakes.

With the Franchise Bible, you learn to:

• Determine if owning a franchise is right for you
• Evaluate the advantages and disadvantages of franchising
• Understand the legal terms and documents associated with franchising

• Navigate the offering circular and what items it should contain
• Decide whether you should buy a franchise or start your own
• Select the best methods for expanding your existing business
• Determine the optimum time to franchise your business

Includes these samples of actual franchise documents:

• Offering Circular
• Franchise Agreements
• Franchise Application Form
• Site Evaluation Form
• Operational Manual Outline

Plus, this guide is packed with checklists to help you:

• Investigate franchisors
• Interview existing franchises
• Assess your suitability for running a franchise
• Prepare the required information before purchasing a franchise

Whether you want to buy a franchise or franchise your own business, this guide is required reading.

"Author and franchise lawyer Erwin J. Keup has made an exhaustive study of the franchise purchasing process and delivers his findings in concise, understandable language that has all you need to franchise with finesse."

"Kudos to author Erwin J. Keup. We like the book's easy-to-read style."

"Equally useful to prospective franchises and franchisors. Explains in detail what the franchise system entails and the precise benefits it offers."

Book Description

Updated and revised in 1999, the reader acclaimed, non-textbook guide to franchising with new war stories, new success secrets, and all the needed how-to’s for prospective franchisees.

When you read Tips & Traps When Buying a Franchise you’ll find out why one franchisee stated the book "should be the bible for anyone who is considering a franchise investment. I would have avoided all the pitfalls I am now experiencing if this book had been available before I signed my franchise agreement and lease."

If you have time to read only one book about franchising, make it this one. Tips & Traps is a fast read with all the information you need to make a good decision.

Insider Secrets Revealed

· How to select the best franchise for your personal finances and lifestyle
· The hottest franchise opportunities to take you into the 21st Century
· Sources of financing-- why it’s never been better
· How to navigate the legal maze, understand the fine points of the franchise agreement
· How to avoid last-minute deal breakers
· Why co-branding makes sense
· How the franchisor’s financials affect your business
· How to build a business empire with franchises
· And much, much more ... Read more

Reviews (5)

AMAZING!
I started off with no knowledge of the franchising industry..until this book. Tips and Traps takes you through the whole franchise process. After devouring this book ( I am already on my fourth reading!), I have become a franchisee in an expanding food franchise! I would like to find Mary E Tomazack and shake her hand...she changed my life!

Very informative on questions about Franchising
Very informative and interesting on the Franchising Business

Tips and Traps When buying a Franchise is a Must Read!
The ABC's of franchising are all in Mary Tomzack's book Tips and Traps When Buying a Franchise. Clearly covered and simply explained are everything you want to and need to know about franchising. This book should be a must read for business majors and anyone interested in franchising. This book is worth the price of the book.

The only book on franchises will you ever need.
It was the most informative book on franchises that I have ever read. It has a plethora of important information. It was very helpful and I highly recommend it.

Must buy!
Easily the most informative, insightful book of our generation on franchising. A must buy for all entrepreneurs or those interested in this wonderful business. ... Read more

Book Description

A primer on the promises and perils of franchising.

Now in paper! It's big business, accounting for one-third of America's retail revenue. But franchising is still a risky proposition—at least for the franchisee. This resource exposes the frauds and abuses too many companies perpetrate on their franchisees—everything from unfulfilled pledges of promotional support to oversaturating the market with outlets. It helps potential franchise owners avoid being victimized by explaining, in specific detail, what to look for, what questions to ask, and what agreements to make before signing a contract. Robert Purvin also reveals how to identify and take advantage of the worthwhile franchising opportunities available today.

ROBERT PURVIN, JR. (San Diego, California) is an attorney who is an expert on franchising and franchise law. He is Chairman of the American Association of Franchisees and Dealers. ... Read more

Reviews (7)

End the Power Imbalance Now!
If you are considering purchasing a franchise do yourself a massive favor and read this book. The author's main premise is that the contractual bargaining power between a typical franchisor/franchisee is heavily skewed towards the franchisor. This naturally results in a one sided contract in favor of franchisor.

In response to this dramatic power imbalance the author urges franchisees to form a cohesive organization in order to countervail the IFA. This makes a lot of sense to me. Some franchisors are huge MNCs that quite frankly have the government and the law in their backpockets. Franchisees must fight back if they want to truly enjoy the rewards a just relationship can engender.

Truly outstanding
The most intelligent and well reasoned business book I have read in a long time.

As an aspiring entrepreneur, and like many others, I considered purchasing a franchise as one possible route to business ownership. Not having owned a business previously, I figured this could be a lower risk way to learn about business through the benefit of a pre-existing, "proven" business method. For the price of the franchise, I would enjoy a symbiotic, cooperative relationship with the franchisor, for a cut of my revenues in exchange.

In short, I was prepared to buy into the franchise fraud.

Robert Purvin knows his subject. He spent the better part of his career as an attorney representing franchisors. With so colorful a title, I was expecting a rant against franchises in the broad language of most business books.

I was pleasantly surprised. Mr. Purvin, in summary, details the many ways in which franchisors, well with the law as it currently exists, target and bleed their middle class franchisees. With citation to court cases, government publications, and other authoritative material, the autor picks apart the myth that "95% of franchises are successful". He details the powerful legal and contractual methods through which many franchisors, far from helping and coaching their franchisees, use franchisees' capital to test unproven markets, saturate existing ones and take over the cream of the crop.

Not wanting a single book to shape my opinion, I confirmed with actual franchisees their opinion of the industry. Their complaints read like a checklist from the book. Needless to say, purchasing a franchise has sunk to the lower rungs of my list of opportunities.

Don't get ripped off. Buy this book.

A must read for any potential franchisee
Purvin does a great job in giving detailed description on deceptive practices in the franchising industry. A real eye opener on how a person can be easily burned. The book is dated, but is still very relevant.

Good Investment
This book identified the qualities of a good franchise. This is a must read -- it is worth the investment in time and money!

MUST BUY
This is an excellent franchise book. It is very comprehensive and broad book with a lot of examples. It is written in a clear and easy to understand way. MUST BUY. ... Read more

Book Description

For all its growing importance, the booming franchise phenomenonremains largely undocumented and poorly understood, with very littleinsight available on the management challenges that chains face. Jeffrey Bradach fills this void with a penetrating look at the keyfactors that shape a chains' success.

Using examples from majorrestaurant chains, including KFC, Pizza Hut, Hardee's, and Jack in theBox, Bradach extracts the ingredients that make for a thrivingenterprise.Clear and engaging, this is essential reading forunderstanding and managing today's franchise business. ... Read more

Reviews (8)

Need better research design and deduction
This book was written by Dr.Bradach in 1997 but it stills a good reference today.
The comment I have, however, would be the research design is too limited. The research was conducted based on "food resturant chain" but the deduction (including the book title) seems to cover every franchise business. Is it possible that the research results for restuarant business only? We don't know. The research validation of the author still questionable to me.
The selected companies are too subjective, still. Several questions raised while I read the book about other franchise companies that the author didn't select. Although the author indicate three criteria (see research design of the book) to conduct the research, there is no mention to other companies that the author didn't choose.
This book is quite comprehensive but it can be one of the best reference book if the author go more detail (and change the title) for food restuarant business and add more detail about his research design.

Overdone
This book has a lot of good information but is buried within very long-winded writing.

MILLENNIUM MARVEL
THE BOOK IS A SYNTHESIS OF THE EXACT CORE ISSUES OF FRANCHISING IN AN ENLARGED BUSINESS ENVIRONMENT AND IS HELPFUL FOR ORGANISATIONS AND BUSINESS PEOPLE WHO WISH TO ESTABLISH THE CHAIN THROUGH FRANCHISING. THE CASE LAWS REFERENCES COULD BE APPROPRIATELY GEARED UP AS EVERY BUSINESS HAS THESE FOCUSSES DESPITE OTHER ISSUES SUCH AS FINANCE, MARKETING, TECHNICAL AND TECHNOLOGICAL.

Very informative and well researched
Great in depth research is what first striked me about this book. It has a focus on the restaurant franchise business, with 5 successful examples from the US. The book explains a lot about the details of the organizational work done in the franchise business. I have come up with a useful insight on the whole matter. It is a well written thoroughly researched book and at the same time interesting to read, with chapters and parts divided nicely if you want to go back and forth between subjects. Although I own an non-restaurant franchise, this book helped me understand how the system works and what I should expect from my franchisor in some managerial aspects. I would highly recommend it if you own or think about owning a restaurant franchise, or any other franchise for that matter.

Quite insightful
It would be prudent of anyone in the franchise business to read this thoroughly researched, clearly written and carefully considered book by Professor Bradach. This is not a how-to manual, like many of the books cluttering the business sections of bookstores. Instead, it's a study of how, why and to what extent organizations choose to franchise themselves. While it may come across as too academic to some readers, the insight is fresh and informative. I found the interviews with franchising industry executives particularly useful, because Professor Bradach elicited such candor from them, especially with regard to the expectations of industry leaders in their relationships with franchisees. Put simply, you'll know where they, the franchisors, are coming from. For a potential fist-time franchisee, reading this book is like accumulating years of first hand knowledge from the inside of the company, something that will better prepare anyone for negotiating and working with a franchisor for the first time. Highlighted, dog-eared and often consulted, this one will stay on my bookshelf for years. ... Read more

Book Description

Today's economic climate, dominated by corporate giants and chains, can be a tough place for a new face, but buying a franchise is the best opportunity for a budding entrepreneur. 220 Best Franchises to Buy, revised and updated with all-new franchise ideas, shows you how to get in on the ground floor--and how to reap the benefits of running your own business without running all the risks.
Here are all the facts you need to make an informed decision about the franchise operation that best suits your professional goals, financial resources, and personal needs. The book features a step-by-step breakdown of potentially confusing areas such as financial responsibilities and licensing fees. You'll also learn about what kind of training and marketing to expect for your money, and how to negotiate a contract in your favor.
This new edition of a business classic has been completely updated and revised to include franchise opportunities for the new millennium--everything from advertising to the fastest-growing chains of health clubs. With over fifty thousand copies in print, 220 Best Franchises to Buy is one of the most trusted sources of franchise information for today's entrepreneurs.
... Read more

Reviews (3)

A Big Disapointment
This book is a big disapointment. The begining chapters have some useful information, but much of it can easily be found on the web. The 220 franchises they list have no supporting information on why they're the best. The information they provide seem like condensed versions of the franchisor's flyers.

Good Council - Helpful Industry Overview
The first section of the book provides good basic council if you are early in the process. The majority of the book lists franchise opportunities by category. This may be very helpful in narrowing down what might be appealing based on individual preferences.

A Disappointment
I was hopping to get a book containing information on 220 franchises that had been rated "best" by some criteria. This book does not attempt to do that. It gives pretty good information on 220 franchises, but it makes no claim that they are best by any standard.

In the introduction to the information on the 220 franchises, the book states the franchises "..represent a wide variety of franchise opportunities. Chosen to provide a sampling of the many types of franchising opportunities available...".

This is not what the title leades the buyer to expect and is not what I wanted to buy. ... Read more

Book Description

Your One-Stop Guide to Buying a Homebased Franchise

Join the growing ranks of entrepreneurs starting homebased businesses by exploring the exciting opportunities available in today’s franchise market.Ultimate Book of Homebased Franchises 2005/2006 provides comprehensive franchise listings targeted the expanding segment of homebased businesses.Focused on entrepreneurs seeking options beyond joining the 9-to-5 work force, this all-in-one guide delivers practical advice and an expert overview of the franchise world, plus listings of the top homebased franchises.

This guide includes:

• Time-critical information for doing business today
• Top 10 list for homebased franchises
• Details on contracts, costs, size, training, support and franchisee qualifications
• Facts on more than 320 homebased franchises
• Lessons from Entrepreneur magazine’s more than 25 years of research and reporting

Learn everything you need to know about homebased franchise ownership, from researching options to buying the franchise to setting it up in your home.Discover insightful advice on daily operations and skills needed for sustaining continued success, such as marketing, promotion, administration and more.Ultimate Book of Homebased Franchises is the most comprehensive and powerful tool available for establishing a profitable homebased business today.

Reviews (1)

A Good Introduction to the Basics
Note the words "Home Based" in the title of this book. This lets out all the burger-chicken-fish places and limits the choice to those kinds of business that might be done in a home. And wisely, the first page of the book asks the question, Is It Legal. There are an awful lot of restrictions on running a business out of your home. The book points out some common ones, but you need to investigate local laws. Some of the businesses listed in this book wouldn't be legal to run from a home in most places.

After that, up to page 108 in the book is about general rules of running a business and the advantages and disadvantages of a franchise. Advantage: it should be a proven concept that is simply being replicated elsewhere. Disadvantage: you have to run the business exactly as the franchiser tells you.

After that the book lists some generalized information about 300+ franchise operations. Maybe one of them will fit your needs. Note that in their top ten list, eight of the ten have something to do with cleaning. ... Read more

Book Description

As the pre-eminent publisher of nine books on franchising, Source Book Publications is constantly asked "What are the best franchises?" Since there are over 2,300 active North American franchise systems, there clearly is no simple answer. This is especially true given the individual needs, experience and financial wherewithal of a widely divergent pool of prospective franchisees.

To at least partially answer the question, however, our staff has broken the franchising industry into three major categories -- food-service, retail and service-based franchises. Within each group, a rigorous, in-depth analysis was performed on literally hundreds of proven franchise systems to arrive at what we feel are the top 100 franchises. Companies were evaluated on the basis of historical performance, brand identification, market dynamics, franchisee satisfaction, the level of initial training and on-going support, financial stability and various other key factors.

The end result of evaluating over 500 franchise systems is Bond's Top 100 Franchises. Many of the companies selected are household names (Blimpie, Century 21, Dunkin' Donuts, GNC, Jackson Hewitt, ServiceMaster Clean). Others are rapidly growing, mid-sized firms (Aaron's, Kumon, Long John Silver's, Merry Maids) that are also strong national players. Still others are somewhat smaller systems that demonstrate sound concepts, exceptional management and an aggressive expansion system (Carvel, Children's Orchard, FISH Window Cleaning, Red Roof Inns, Wing Zone). Unlike other publications that tout the "Best Franchises," there was absolutely no favoritism (usually a function of advertising dollars) shown to any franchise during the selection process.

The evaluation process is only the first of several critical and time-consuming steps toward ultimately owning your own franchise. We encourage you to look over the 100 exceptional companies listed in this book before making any final decision on a system that you will be married to for the next 10 or so years. The few hours you spend here could well mean the difference between a marginal and an exceptional investment decision. Do your homework! ... Read more

Book Description

The definitive and most comprehensive franchising directory available. Over 1,000 detailed franchiser profiles resulting from an exhaustive 40-point, 3-page questionnaire. 45 distinct business categories. Also includes detailed profiles on leading franchise attorneys, consultants and service providers. The data represents the most up-to-date, comprehensive and reliable information about this dynamic industry. The profiles detail:

• Background — number of operating units, geographic distribution and detailed description of the business.
• Capital requirements — initial cash investment and total investment, on-going royalty and advertising fees, staffing levels, space needs, etc.
• Initial training and start-up assistance provided, as well as on-going services.
• Franchisee evaluation criteria.
• Specific areas of geographic expansion: U.S., Canada and International.
• And much more... ... Read more

Book Description

Are intellectual property-leveraging and expansion strategies such as franchising and licensing good ways to grow your business? More and more companies--across an ever-expanding spectrum of products and services--are discovering that yes, they are.

Now, in a newly updated revision of a book relied upon by thousands of business executives, here is the strategic guide you've been looking for to help you create and manage an efficient, profitable, and trouble-free business growth plan and make the most of your intangible assets in the new millennium.

Highly acclaimed as the ideal practical planning guide for early-stage and rapidly-growing businesses, the first edition of Franchising and Licensing spearheaded the success of thousands of new companies. This new edition incorporates the latest developments and trends in franchising, licensing, and other growth strategies based on strategic distribution partnering relationships with local resources who use their own capital to achieve growth objectives.

With its clear, expert guidance, you'll be able to choose the best ways to: * avoid the common pitfalls of franchising, licensing, joint ventures, distributorships, and other leveraged marketing structures * understand the key management, operational, and legal issues involved in building an effective franchising program * leverage intellectual property to penetrate new markets, expand market share, and build customer and brand loyalty

Franchising and Licensing, Second Edition, is also your key to minimizing the disputes that so often plague franchising and other partnering-based business structures. It demonstrates clearly how to focus on quality and training to ensure that quantity and expansion will follow. It shows you how to build a clear commitment to quality, fairness, and effective communication in a way that pervades all your activities.

And it also provides detailed, expert guidance through such crucial elements of the business relationship as protection of intellectual property, field support, regulatory compliance, co-branding strategies, quality control systems, mergers and acquisitions, international expansion, and even litigation. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

The US's guide to franchising
This book is obviously aimed at the US domestic market. State by state it covers laws and practices. The sales girl said that UK franchising law was based on US law, maybe she was right. It is usefull to the UK francisor/franchisee, insofar as it gives excellent advice and working examples. The majority of its 400 pages are only useful between LA and New York, however, anyone planning to enter into a franchising agreement should imho have read this, and have it on his (or her) shelves.

Excellent book for business consultants in franchising
Excellent for those who are business consultants in franchising. Mr. Sherman has covered the major topics that must be taken in consideration when a business is going to be offered as franchise, in a well-developed book with very good legal advice. ... Read more

Book Description

Your One-Stop Guide to Buying a Low-Cost Franchise

Ultimate Book of Low-Cost Franchises is the first book of its kind to provide comprehensive franchise listing targeting popular businesses with a low entry cost.Explore all the essentials of low-0cost franchise ownership, from researching options and finding financing to marketing on a budget and operating on a shoestring.Packed with solid advice and timely information, this unique, all-in-one guide delivers valuable guidance customized for low-cost franchises.

• Time-critical information on up-and-coming franchises
• Top 10 lsit for low-cost franchises
• More than 300 low-cost franchise listings
• Details on contacts, costs, size, training, support and franchisee qualifications
• Expert and comprehensive overview of the franchise industry
• Lessons from Entrepreneur magazine’s more than 25 years of research and reporting

If you’re looking for a way to purchase your own business on a budget, Ultimate Book of Low-Cost Franchises can quickly and cheaply get you up and running in the franchise game.

Book Description

Written specifically to help lawyers in Canada, this practical guide examines franchise law from a wide-range of experiences and viewpoints. ... Read more

Book Description

This guide gives investors the most complete information they need about franchises. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Bond's Franchise Guide
I thought I was getting a book on franchises that was a ratings of franchises. This might as well have been condensed into a 5 page booklet on franchise cost. It did however, contain some good contact numbers for someone who has no idea of where to start their franchise search.

One of the best books if you're looking to buy a franchise.
Bonds is by far one of the best franchise books on the market. As a consultant to many franchisors, I have constantly referred back to Bonds. The contact information is very accurate. It is very easy to follow. I used mine so many times, I had to order a new one. When you want to explore the top franchise and business opportunities on line, visit us at FranchiseAmerica.com-America's Franchise and Business Opportunity Portal. ... Read more

Book Description

Your One-Stop Guide to Buying a Restaurant or Food-Service Franchise

The most up-to-date, comprehensive and powerful tool for uncovering opportunities in the restaurant franchise world, Ultimate Book of Restaurant and Food-Service Franchises is a direct connection to the hottest segment in today’s rapidly growing franchise market.Packed with solid advice and timely information, this full-course directory draws upon Entrepreneur magazine’s more then 25 years of research and reporting to serve up everything you need to know about restaurant franchises in one dynamic package.

• Time-critical information for doing business today
• Top 10 lists for both quick- and full-service restaurants
• Comprehensive listings for more than 320 restaurant and food-service franchises
• Details on contacts, costs, size, training, support and franchisee qualifications
• Complete overview of the franchise industry

From researching the perfect franchise and negotiating a final agreement to developing the skills needed for sustaining continued success on daily operations, Ultimate Book of Restaurant and Food-Service Franchises is the most insightful and fact-filled guide available today.