Women in franchising - Statistics

• Women owned an estimated 25% of U.S. franchises in 2005, according to a report by the International Franchise Association. This figure is up from 8.5% in 1995.
• The IFA reports that women have founded 23 franchise systems in the U.S.
• In 2004, 51% of the total U.S. population was female, and women accounted for 47% of the labor force.
• 48% of all privately-owned firms in the U.S. are at least 50% owned by women.
• The number of women-owned firms increased by 20% between 1997 and 2002. 
• In 2006, there were an estimated 10.4 million privately-held businesses owned by women.
• The 10.4 million women-owned and equally-owned firms employ 12.8 million people and produce $1.9 trillion in sales. 
• Women-owned firms show more gender equity in their workforces, with women-business owners on average employing 52% women and 48% men, while men-business owners employ 38% women and 62% men.
• The industries with the highest percentage of female franchise ownership are Children’s products and services, and Travel. The industry with the lowest percentage is the automotive industry.

According to the Center for Women's Business Research, women naturally have the characteristics suited to franchising:

• High risk takers: 66% of women business owners are prepared to take substantial or high risks when investing in their business.
• Interpersonal Management Styles: Women put a strong emphasis on networking, and building and maintaining positive workplace relationships. They are more willing to consult with experts, employees, and other entrepreneurs. 
• Motivation: Franchisors are more interested in the individuals with qualities of self-motivation and hard work, rather than basing their choice of franchisees on gender, qualifications, or experience. Motivation and hard-work are both attributes that apply to women.