Michigan Franchise Opportunities

Michigan, the largest producer of cherries in the US and home to four national forests, could be the perfect location for your new venture. “The Great Lakes State” gets its name from its 11,000+ lakes and holds the promise of 37.7 million residents, who could all become potential clients of your new franchise. Michigan is focusing on economic recovery, which means lawmakers are pushing for new revenue from service-sector businesses; these types of businesses are all too common in the franchise industry.

Tax on services is a big issue; in 2007, Governor Jennifer Granholm and Michigan legislators expanded the state’s services tax for carpet cleaning, janitorial services, landscaping, travel services, warehousing and storage, packaging and labeling, document preparation and others. Hours after the law went into effect, Gov. Granholm signed legislation that repealed the 6 percent services tax and replaced it with a 21.99 percent surcharge on the new Michigan Business Tax (MBT). However, most small businesses don’t have to pay the MBT and thus, don’t have to pay the surcharge.

The business community should continue to watch for these kinds of taxes. Health care is another issue in Michigan; although no action has taken place, discussion has circulated about putting a measure on the ballot about forcing lawmakers to find a solution. The forced solution would give universal, comprehensive, affordable health care to Michigan residents; if legislators did not act satisfactorily, full universal health-care would most likely be sought. Restaurant mandates have been discussed but not enacted; the same is true for restricting trans fat in foods. Although state level discussions continue, the ordinance was defeated at the local level in Oakland County.

Some fast facts about franchising in Michigan include: Franchised Businesses: 23,851 Employment in Franchising: 322,445 Economic Output of Franchising: $18.9 billion. We have some exciting franchise opportunities for you to view in prime locations such as Lansing, Detroit and Grand Rapids.