Why Buy a Franchise? Freedom, Flexibility, and Financial Success
Buying a franchise isn’t just a wise business decision, it’s a better way of life. Here’s what to expect when you become a franchise owner.
BENEFITS OF FRANCHISING
Unlike independent business startups, most franchise opportunities have been tried and tested over time, honing their strengths in the marketplace. Buying a franchise means investing in a full system, which can be beneficial for new and seasoned entrepreneurs alike. Starting your own business from scratch involves a great deal of legwork and can lead to unnecessary expenditures and time-consuming trial-and-error pursuits, particularly in the first year.
One of the greatest benefits of franchising is the efficiency and ease with which you can launch your business. Once you sign your franchise agreement and pay your initial franchise fee, an entire team of skilled experts are on hand to provide you with all the information and support you will to set your path toward success.
Compared to an untested business concept, franchise success is partly derived from its pre-established name recognition and consumer trust. New franchise owners benefit more from a reputation that has been built up over time, reaching customers on a larger scale than that of an independent venture. Franchises employ the best branding and marketing strategists to ensure that all their franchisees are able to build their business effectively within the brand.
A BETTER INVESTMENT
Regardless of the industry, the business model you choose will determine the cost of opening your franchise. Initial investment costs or startup costs, found in Item 7 of the Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD), typically include the franchise fee, marketing fees, site improvements, and any equipment or inventory needed to open your business. Buying a franchise is usually less expensive because you can avoid the potential financial pitfalls of an independent business venture. And if you require external financing to help make your business dreams a reality, the probability of securing a loan is historically much higher for a franchise brand backed by a strong reputation and sustainable growth record than an independent venture.
Entrepreneurs who want to open a franchise should consider the expansive and recession-resistant urgent health care industry, in which American Family Care is a leading name. The total initial investment to break into a thriving market with AFC runs between $1,008,000 and $1,441,500, which includes the initial $60,000 franchise fee.
COMPREHENSIVE SUPPORT
The right franchisor is fully committed to preparing you for success. As the franchise owner, you can expect to learn about the operational requirements of the business, sales and marketing strategies, branding guidelines, financial management techniques, staff development and teamwork, and customer satisfaction. All these things are aimed at reducing the number of mistakes that conventional non-franchise startups usually experience.
AFC believes that ongoing training and education is an essential part of our success, so we work to ensure that all franchisees and the clinicians on staff at each location have access to professional development to ensure best practices, patient welfare, and satisfaction.
A STRONG NETWORK
Still wondering why to buy a franchise? Consider the fact that while you’ll be working for yourself, you’ll never feel alone. The franchisor’s FDD provides the names and contact information of current and former franchisees, who can offer invaluable insights about their experience with the brand as you consider your options.
The best franchises make this information available before it comes time for the FDD review so you can conduct your due diligence. Discovery Day, franchise testimonials, and other news about community standing can be easily accessed through company websites and other franchise resources.
Chances are, if current franchisees are satisfied with their experience and proud of the brand they represent, they’ll be more than happy to talk to you about it. Same goes for unhappy franchisees who willingly offer you cautionary tales. A strong franchise network is evident in the individual and combined success of its business owners and is a resounding testament to a brand’s lasting power.
A BETTER BUSINESS MODEL WITH AFC
With nearly 300 locations operating across the country, AFC is proud to be a leader in the essential urgent health care industry, not just in terms of cutting-edge technology and customer care, but in how we support our franchise owners.
Why buy a franchise? Because there are opportunities today with a proven company in a booming industry. If you’d like to learn more about AFC opportunities, apply now.
