Recruiting from within - BDA discuss multi-unit franchising

‘Multi-unit franchising’ is the latest buzzword in recruitment and as more and more franchise systems turn away from traditional methods, it may represent the future of franchise recruitment.

The concept of franchisees expanding their business through the acquisition of multiple franchises has become popular over the past year, in part due to the current economic climate. Banks now have tighter lending profiles which has made recruitment difficult and a number of franchise systems have reported that multi-unit franchising is the way to go.

Looking internally and expanding franchisees from one outlet to multiple franchises has reduced the time taken to find franchisees and reduces the risk involved by building on established relationships. Dealing with a familiar face has made the franchisors task of managing the network easier overall.

The popularity of multi-unit franchising does not necessarily equate to success despite the benefits to be gained and franchisees thinking about taking this path should consider;

• How involved they will be in operations,
• What staffing needs they require to run multiple units,
• The franchisors expectations of the multi-unit franchisee,
• The impact on current operations including financial and resources
• The possibility of retraining to ensure practice is aligned with the franchise system and procedures,
• Technology requirements, and
• How other multi-unit franchisees have forged success

The benefits can be rewarding over the long run although the need to effectively manage franchise staff becomes even more critical to success. The old saying ‘you can’t be in two places at once’ becomes very real and franchisees need to trust the people they put in place to take over some facets of the business.

For further information on multi-unit franchising or to speak with a franchise consultant, please call Business Development Alliance .