Should franchises use alternative finance companies for funding?
Given a post-Brexit slowdown in bank lending seems all but inevitable, could alternative finance offer a solution to franchises’ borrowing woes?
Carl Reader of The Franchising Handbook: can you really afford that franchise?
Before buying a franchise, it’s worth considering what exactly you’re paying for and, just as importantly, whether you can afford it, says Carl Reader in The Franchising Handbook.
Why the government must stop ignoring franchises
With franchising’s economic contribution undervalued by politicians and many franchisees ineligible for existing SME support, it’s time for the government to step up
Profit shouldn't be a presumption for franchises
A profitable business is a healthy business but how many franchisees can say with certainty that they’re in profit?
How alternative finance can close the franchise funding gap
There was a time when banks were the only port of call for franchises looking to borrow. But things are very different in the post-recession era
Matchmaking funders and franchisees: ingredients for a happy marriage
By carefully weighing up their options and asking the right questions, franchisees can find their ideal funder
Strength in numbers: the financials of multi-unit franchising
More franchisees are investing in multiple sites and sometimes across multiple brands. But how can owners manage growth across several outlets?
Solving the franchise financing puzzle
Most franchisees use a mixture of borrowing and cash reserves when investing in a business. But what is the best funding formula?
The national living wage: how can franchises prepare?
Many businesses will be fearing the introduction of the national living wage but there’s plenty that franchises can do to lessen its impact
Why size doesn’t matter when it comes to franchising
Investing in a big-name franchise offers no more guarantees than buying into a smaller brand. That's why the things a franchisee should ask before investing money remains the same says Alex Littner, MD of Boost Capital
