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There no point in trying to gloss over the stark financial reality of the moment: everyone is feeling the economic pinch.

Consumer confidence is low and banks have been forced to tighten their belts. For automotive franchises, the economic crisis couldn’t have come at a worse time. The skyrocketing price of oil in the last year has forced American drivers to deal with the reality that most drivers around the world have long accepted. With gas looking like it might reach $5 a gallon, the days of cheap driving seem like it might be over.

The statistics make for tough reading for those in the automotive industry. Americans bought 13.6 million new cars in May, which was down 18 percent from the same period in 2007. This was the biggest plunge since October, 2002, which itself proceeded a year of huge car sales. Data also shows that drivers are also holding onto their cars longer.

All and all, it doesn’t seem like the most appetizing time to consider purchasing an automotive franchise. But if one looks deeper into the numbers, they can find reasons to be optimistic.

For one, as the automotive industry endures turbulence, it will be the company with the least amount of exposure that will survive. Many companies, for example, have over-invested in niche accessories that are now surplus to the requirements of today’s frugal drivers. At the same time, as people hold onto their cars longer, they will certainly require further repair work. And as the industry becomes more cutthroat, it will probably be independent businesses that fall by the wayside. In short, the tried-and-true business models of franchises might be the ideal businesses to see you through this rocky economic period.

Obviously, it takes a courageous investor to wade into the uncertain economic waters. But an afterlife automotive franchise with Franchise Direct still offers an interesting opportunity.

Even at times of economic uncertainty, turnkey businesses continue to be an appetizing prospect for people serious about being their own boss.

For those unfamiliar with the phrase, a ‘turnkey’ franchise is essentially one where the franchisee can walk in on the first day, and in effect ‘turn the key’ on their new business.

This is because the business owner has provided virtually every element required to starting the business, arranging everything from site location to lease signing to construction of the unit to the purchase of essentials for launching the business, and even in some cases, the hiring and training the staff.

The popularity of turnkey business raises an interesting question for franchisors: are franchises turnkey businesses? The answer depends. Some franchises owners go out of their way to provide every resource for new franchisees. But the flexibility built into franchising means that some companies will leave the business preparation completely to the franchisee.

If you’re a prospective franchisee, you have the freedom to choose the opportunity that’s right for you. Perhaps you’re a first-time franchise owner and you’d like to eliminate all of the hassle from getting your business off the ground. In that case, a turnkey business might be the right opportunity. But maybe you’d like to micromanage your business and want a hand in every aspect of its preparation. Turnkey business might not appeal to you.

The beauty of franchising is that there are many different opportunities in a range of businesses. Turnkey businesses are just one kind of model. Franchises themselves aren’t necessarily a turnkey business, but if you’re looking for a turnkey opportunity, Franchise Direct will find the company that’s right for you.