There’s so much spin and counter-spin in the media in these choppy economic waters that it's difficult to get a grasp on how the economy is affecting real people and real businesses. It’s eye-catching, then, to hear some franchisees pop up to discuss their experience of the franchising industry.
The Augusta Chronicle recently published an extensive story on the usefulness of franchising in a struggling economy. They interviewed a lot of franchisees and we found their feelings incredibly relevant.
"With the growth of franchises, we're currently opening around 200 stores a year. That in itself is amazing, considering the economy," said Ramon Almodovar of Five Guys Burgers and Fries.
Allen Baer, a franchisee with Little Caesar’s, offered his feelings on opening a franchise.
"It's the biggest commitment you'll ever make in your life, besides marriage and buying a house. You've got to be totally focused on what you're doing. You have to do your homework. Every business has got its own quirks, so you've got to figure out what your skill set is and what you think you're capable of doing…With the economy we're in, people are looking for a value. I believe Little Caesars has a great product for the money."
Wendy Steele of Einstein Bagels says that its popularity of the brand that makes her franchisee so successful.
"Their brand is so important to them that they want whoever is going to represent their brand, they want it to be perfect.”
Obviously, every franchisee has a different experience but it’s always instructive to hear the franchisee share their opinions.