Franchising
in Ireland has grown at a fast rate in recent years. There are now more
than 300 established franchises in Ireland.
Franchising is offered as a good way of going into business for yourself.
It is possible that by buying into a well-tested franchise you can become
your own boss, while benefiting from the experience of the franchisors.
No business venture guarantees success, but franchising offers to limit
the risks, by providing a business format that has been successful for
someone else, and by providing you with training and sometimes a well
known brand name. Some well know franchises in Ireland are Supermacs
, McDonald's, Snap Printing and the Levi's Store
It
can be costly to set up a franchise - on average it can be €250,000
- but amounts as low as €10,000 might start you up in some smaller
franchises.
The
amount of control that you will have over the business will be limited.
You really need to agree with the business idea and be prepared to go
along with it and abide by the terms of the franchise agreement. Being
part of a franchise chain has financial benefits - compared to being
on your own. Although you will still be running a small business, you
will be part of a much larger network with much bigger bargaining power
Don't
forget - the person selling you the franchise is expecting to make
money from you - so make sure you have guarantees on the levels
of support and marketing they will provide.