Global Franchise 9.1

AVOIDING THE DISTRACTION OF BRIGHT LIGHT BRANDS Businesses with established world domination status (i.e. the McDonald’s of this world) may seem like a sure win, but it’s crucial to avoid being blinded by the brand. Instead, investors need to dig deep beneath the surface to really ascertain whether this opportunity is best suited to what they stand for and what they want to achieve. Undertaking such thorough research on these global giants was a common theme throughout the show. “We took show visitors back to basics – how they should begin the process of assessing a business opportunity,” confirmed Jesse Keyser, CEO at Keyser Enterprises, who ran one of the education seminars. “By providing a proven concept, brand recognition, and business support, purchasing a franchise eliminates the enormous burden of launching a business from scratch for many people. So, our session concentrated on the critical questions and tangible research needed to make the best franchise decision for each individual. What industry, brand and structure would best fit their personal business ownership vision?” However, the show was also conscientious in outlining the assessment’s flipside: who are these international brands looking for? And how can investors ensure they’re the right person to reassuringly introduce the franchise into new markets? It’s something that Martin Hancock, Managing Partner at World Franchise Associates, dedicated his education seminar to on both show days. “Those aspiring franchisees and entrepreneurs took away with them an in-depth understanding of the key attributes and qualifications that top U.S. franchise brands look for in international franchisee candidates,” he said. “Financial requirements, business experience, and market understanding stood out as essentials, giving visitors plenty of food for thought.” KEYNOTE SPOTLIGHT: CAPACITYTO CONDENSE There are often unseen efficiencies to be found in businesses that have swollen to a global size. Here are several reasons why you might want to look at cutting or consolidating your suppliers, according to ERA Group’s Simon Drake: These include: Lessening suppliers tomanage, which creates time costs Reducing the number of transactions to reconcile Positioning your business as a better client by channellingmore money into (fewer) brands without additional cost Actively reducing carbon footprint by consolidating deliveries Giving your business more leverage with suppliers. ZORTOZOR Brands looking to partner with existing franchise businesses to expand further: Cheat Daze & BRGR Lab Regal Booths Simply Business Club The Creation Station Wienerschnitzel Wix.com “Great wrap-up to day one. Non-stop meetings, sound lead generation, meeting friends, and franchisees. Well done the International Franchise Show in London, what a show.” Helen Doron Educational Group GLOBAL-FRANCHISE.COM 53