In the last two weeks alone I have found 2 niche areas in the sports attire field that I could make extra cash from. After searching on the internet for these exclusive products, I could only find them in other countries or other provinces, nothing local. Stumbling across things like this made me realise how many niches there must be out there for buisness savvy people to exploit. I could import these products and sell them locally to other sports people that I know - either through word or mouth or sporting events. I think the trick is to be very specific.
So find a niche product that you are passionate about and explore the possibility of starting a part-time business. Wouldn't it be great to earn an extra R5000 a month selling something you love?!
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Tuesday, March 3, 2009
Tuesday, February 17, 2009
Business Idea 4: Finger Snacks Catering
Industry:
Food & Entertaining
Difficulty to start:
Low – Medium depending on experience and equipment available
Start-Up Costs:
Med-High (Vehicle, Equipment, Staff, Rent) - This business could be run from home initially though.
Must Love:
Cooking
Baking
Knowledge Needed:
Stock Control
Menu Planning
Bulk Food Preparation and Storage
Food Hygiene
Websites to Inspire You:
Just Fingerfoods
The Idea:
Here is great niche to tap into if you enjoy cooking, baking and preparing food. Specialise in delivering hot and cold snack platters. Name the business appropriately so that people remember you for just specialising in snack / cocktail foods. Once you have a sound business model and are ready to expand, this would be an excellent concept to franchise.
Food & Entertaining
Difficulty to start:
Low – Medium depending on experience and equipment available
Start-Up Costs:
Med-High (Vehicle, Equipment, Staff, Rent) - This business could be run from home initially though.
Must Love:
Cooking
Baking
Knowledge Needed:
Stock Control
Menu Planning
Bulk Food Preparation and Storage
Food Hygiene
Websites to Inspire You:
Just Fingerfoods
The Idea:
Here is great niche to tap into if you enjoy cooking, baking and preparing food. Specialise in delivering hot and cold snack platters. Name the business appropriately so that people remember you for just specialising in snack / cocktail foods. Once you have a sound business model and are ready to expand, this would be an excellent concept to franchise.
Tuesday, February 10, 2009
Business Idea 3: Walk-the-Dog Business
Industry:
Pets / Pet Accessories / Pet Care
Difficulty to start:
Easy!
Start-Up Costs:
Low, but you need your own car
Must Love:
All animals
Dealing with pet owners
Knowledge Needed:
You need to know how to walk and care for a dog – no brainer!
The Idea:
There are plenty of loving dog owners out there that don’t have the time to walk their dogs but would probably pay someone to walk their dogs for them! Now I am sure that there are companies like this somewhere in South Africa (or world) but I haven’t seen or heard of any so please enlighten me if you know of any. You can offer various services such as a walk once a day, twice a week or once a week. You could charge for delivery of pet food and toys, give the dogs a wash and even throw ball/ frisbie for them!
Possible Marketing Ideas:
Target veterinary practices as well as pet shops to become strategic partners who can promote your services for you. Visit nearby parks where people walk their dogs and get chatting to people, tell them about your service. There are plenty of puppy schools around too, so get in touch with them and perhaps you can introduce yourself to the owners and puppies who attend the class!
Pets / Pet Accessories / Pet Care
Difficulty to start:
Easy!
Start-Up Costs:
Low, but you need your own car
Must Love:
All animals
Dealing with pet owners
Knowledge Needed:
You need to know how to walk and care for a dog – no brainer!
The Idea:
There are plenty of loving dog owners out there that don’t have the time to walk their dogs but would probably pay someone to walk their dogs for them! Now I am sure that there are companies like this somewhere in South Africa (or world) but I haven’t seen or heard of any so please enlighten me if you know of any. You can offer various services such as a walk once a day, twice a week or once a week. You could charge for delivery of pet food and toys, give the dogs a wash and even throw ball/ frisbie for them!
Possible Marketing Ideas:
Target veterinary practices as well as pet shops to become strategic partners who can promote your services for you. Visit nearby parks where people walk their dogs and get chatting to people, tell them about your service. There are plenty of puppy schools around too, so get in touch with them and perhaps you can introduce yourself to the owners and puppies who attend the class!
Tuesday, February 3, 2009
Business Idea 2: Sell Green Picnics
Industry:
Food and Entertaining
Difficulty to start:
Easy
Start-Up Costs:
Low
Must Love:
Cooking / Baking
Environment
Knowledge Needed
Food Safety
Food Preparation Methods
The Idea:
Picking up on the eco niche, why not position yourself to sell “Green Picnics” to eco-conscious consumers. Picnics baskets can provide a refreshing change to the standard corporate lunch, wedding or birthday celebration. To make it even more appealing, put a twist on this somewhat conventional idea and focus on eco-packaging. Supply glass or steel crockery and cutlery and where plastic is necessary, use recyclable plastics. Also try and support local food vendors and organic food.
Possible Marketing Ideas:
Prepare a modern picnic for friends or family, pay attention to the picnic setting and food preparation. Hire a professional photographer to document the event – brief them on taking detailed pictures which you could then send to various leisure or wedding magazines (along with text and the menu) to be used as an editorial feature. This would provide a great kick-start for your company.
Websites to inspire you:
www.superfresh.co.za/2008/08/13/10-tips-for-an-eco-friendly-picnic/
www.associatedcontent.com/article/330109/how_to_enjoy_an_ecofriendly_picnic.html
Food and Entertaining
Difficulty to start:
Easy
Start-Up Costs:
Low
Must Love:
Cooking / Baking
Environment
Knowledge Needed
Food Safety
Food Preparation Methods
The Idea:
Picking up on the eco niche, why not position yourself to sell “Green Picnics” to eco-conscious consumers. Picnics baskets can provide a refreshing change to the standard corporate lunch, wedding or birthday celebration. To make it even more appealing, put a twist on this somewhat conventional idea and focus on eco-packaging. Supply glass or steel crockery and cutlery and where plastic is necessary, use recyclable plastics. Also try and support local food vendors and organic food.
Possible Marketing Ideas:
Prepare a modern picnic for friends or family, pay attention to the picnic setting and food preparation. Hire a professional photographer to document the event – brief them on taking detailed pictures which you could then send to various leisure or wedding magazines (along with text and the menu) to be used as an editorial feature. This would provide a great kick-start for your company.
Websites to inspire you:
www.superfresh.co.za/2008/08/13/10-tips-for-an-eco-friendly-picnic/
www.associatedcontent.com/article/330109/how_to_enjoy_an_ecofriendly_picnic.html
Tuesday, January 27, 2009
Business Idea 1: Start an Eco-Mobile Spa
Welcome to the first posting of our 8 Week Business Ideas Special! . We'll be presenting a start-up idea every week for the next 8 weeks so be sure to visit our blog for lots of great inspiration!
Industry:
Health and Wellness
Difficulty to Start:
Easy
Start-Up Costs:
Low-Med
Must Love:
Beauty and Wellness
Environment
Dealing with people
Knowledge Needed:
Experience in managing or running a beauty salon would be beneficial but spa consultants can also help develop a business plan for you.
Websites to inspire you:
Mobile Eco Spa
The Idea:
Yes there are spas, there are also mobile spas and there a handful of eco spas BUT what about combining all 3 aspects to get a mobile eco spa! What would make your service eco-friendly you ask? Well, firstly you drive 1 van to a company, bed and breakfast or someone’s house instead of 6 people driving six cars to you! Less carbon emissions right there. You could use natural substances for your treatments ie. Rose waters, salts, coconut and banana body wraps, avocado facials etc. For all wiping and hand drying, you could use light-weight eco disposable towels and gowns (better than washing loads of towels afterwards). And lastly you could educate your female clients on a few ways to incorporate earth-friendly practices into their daily beauty regime. You could even offer eco-beauty kits as an up-sell.
Industry:
Health and Wellness
Difficulty to Start:
Easy
Start-Up Costs:
Low-Med
Must Love:
Beauty and Wellness
Environment
Dealing with people
Knowledge Needed:
Experience in managing or running a beauty salon would be beneficial but spa consultants can also help develop a business plan for you.
Websites to inspire you:
Mobile Eco Spa
The Idea:
Yes there are spas, there are also mobile spas and there a handful of eco spas BUT what about combining all 3 aspects to get a mobile eco spa! What would make your service eco-friendly you ask? Well, firstly you drive 1 van to a company, bed and breakfast or someone’s house instead of 6 people driving six cars to you! Less carbon emissions right there. You could use natural substances for your treatments ie. Rose waters, salts, coconut and banana body wraps, avocado facials etc. For all wiping and hand drying, you could use light-weight eco disposable towels and gowns (better than washing loads of towels afterwards). And lastly you could educate your female clients on a few ways to incorporate earth-friendly practices into their daily beauty regime. You could even offer eco-beauty kits as an up-sell.
Monday, January 19, 2009
Make 2009 Your Most Successful Year Yet!
For those of you who had too much Roast Turkey or Christmas pudding this festive season, its time to get into the work mode and start thinking of how you are going to make it big this year! The beginning of each year provides a clean slate from which to work so write down your goals and set deadlines. What would you like to achieve for yourself and your business this year?
If you are in need of some inspiration, I am currently reading a great book called The Monk who sold his Ferrari . You'll definitely want to write down your goals after reading this. So here's to success in 2009!
If you are in need of some inspiration, I am currently reading a great book called The Monk who sold his Ferrari . You'll definitely want to write down your goals after reading this. So here's to success in 2009!
Friday, December 19, 2008
What are your business goals for 2009?
The holidays are here baby!!! Use this time to relax, rejuvenate and to think of your new years resolutions and when you have a few moments to yourself, also think of what your business goals will be in 2009. It is of paramount importance that you define some kind of structure for the growth of your business and setting goals is the perfect way to do this. Be specific and issue timelines for your goals too. ie Increase turnover by 20% by the 30th June 2009.
We at Limelight Websites go on leave today and will be back in the office on the 12th January 2008. If you would like to advertise your franchise on Franchise Finder or write us an article please email us at info@franchisefinder.co.za and we will attend to your query on our return.
Until the 12th January, take care and have a wonderful festive season!
We at Limelight Websites go on leave today and will be back in the office on the 12th January 2008. If you would like to advertise your franchise on Franchise Finder or write us an article please email us at info@franchisefinder.co.za and we will attend to your query on our return.
Until the 12th January, take care and have a wonderful festive season!
Monday, December 15, 2008
Should I Franchise My Business?
In today’s world of fierce competition and fast-paced business, franchising is proving to be an increasingly popular method of business expansion. Companies can sprout from local brands to household names in a relatively short period of time whilst still being rewarded financially and being free of massive liabilities that usually accompany traditional growth. Leaving a unique business concept to grow organically can often take too long and this may leave an opportunity for another emerging company to leap frog the market share and nullify all growth plans. Expanding too fast however can also have devastating implications and there should be a solid franchise development plan in place before a company embarks on such a project.
Although many entrepreneurs are aware of the successes that franchising can bring, most business owners are not familiar with the actual process of transforming a concept into a successful franchise chain.
It is without doubt that a successful franchise concept starts with solid foundations, a sound track record and an established business model. However, time and time again we see franchises starting out with titanic-like enthusiasm only to find that these franchises don’t even make it through their first year! Those considering franchising their business need to be enthusiastic yet they also need vision as well as a strong focus on delivering a good quality product/service and looking after franchisees well.
Here is a checklist to help entrepreneurs decide whether they should franchise their business.
1. Do you have one successful business model running already?
• This is one of the most important factors in franchising your business. This is the model on which all your future franchises should be based. Don’t even think of franchising a brand new business – rather let it establish itself, iron out business flaws, create a solid business model and make a profit!! Once the business is running like a well oiled machine, then start considering franchising as a means of growing the business.
2. What are the unique factors that make your company perfect for franchising?
• Ask yourself whether your franchise concept is original and write down 3 unique factors that set it apart from your competition. Potential franchisees want a business that not only works well but something that is different and difficult for competitors to copy.
3. Have you consulted a franchise expert, FASA or a lawyer to discuss a franchise disclosure document and franchise structure?
• A well-written franchise agreement is an absolute must and is worth the expense. Try use legal experts that are familiar with franchising and can give practical advice and guidance. You may even want to consult with a firm that specialises in converting successful businesses into franchises such as Indus Consulting
4. Are there sufficient profit margins for franchisees?
• The success and growth of your franchise is largely dependent on the success and profitability of the franchisees themselves. If a franchisee makes a decent profit for their hard work and investment, they are more likely to stay motivated and run the franchise properly. If the royalty fees are too high and the franchisee does not make a sufficient profit margin, they will soon lose interest and the franchise may very well fail. As the franchisor, you need to ensure that the profit distribution is fair. This is key - try aim for a win-win situation!
5. Can you afford to become a member of FASA (Franchise Association of South Africa)
• Consider franchising your business when you can afford to be a member of the Franchise Association of South Africa! Currently it costs over R12 000 per year to be a member. This adds a significant amount of credibility to your business and if you are serious about franchising this is an absolute must.
Once you have decided that your business concept is suitable for franchising ie. It can be built on solid foundations, then start putting the steps into motion to franchise your business. The franchising process is not an overnight procedure and rushing into it can result in costly mistakes. Plan well and execute plans professionally.
By Louise Sanders
Although many entrepreneurs are aware of the successes that franchising can bring, most business owners are not familiar with the actual process of transforming a concept into a successful franchise chain.
It is without doubt that a successful franchise concept starts with solid foundations, a sound track record and an established business model. However, time and time again we see franchises starting out with titanic-like enthusiasm only to find that these franchises don’t even make it through their first year! Those considering franchising their business need to be enthusiastic yet they also need vision as well as a strong focus on delivering a good quality product/service and looking after franchisees well.
Here is a checklist to help entrepreneurs decide whether they should franchise their business.
1. Do you have one successful business model running already?
• This is one of the most important factors in franchising your business. This is the model on which all your future franchises should be based. Don’t even think of franchising a brand new business – rather let it establish itself, iron out business flaws, create a solid business model and make a profit!! Once the business is running like a well oiled machine, then start considering franchising as a means of growing the business.
2. What are the unique factors that make your company perfect for franchising?
• Ask yourself whether your franchise concept is original and write down 3 unique factors that set it apart from your competition. Potential franchisees want a business that not only works well but something that is different and difficult for competitors to copy.
3. Have you consulted a franchise expert, FASA or a lawyer to discuss a franchise disclosure document and franchise structure?
• A well-written franchise agreement is an absolute must and is worth the expense. Try use legal experts that are familiar with franchising and can give practical advice and guidance. You may even want to consult with a firm that specialises in converting successful businesses into franchises such as Indus Consulting
4. Are there sufficient profit margins for franchisees?
• The success and growth of your franchise is largely dependent on the success and profitability of the franchisees themselves. If a franchisee makes a decent profit for their hard work and investment, they are more likely to stay motivated and run the franchise properly. If the royalty fees are too high and the franchisee does not make a sufficient profit margin, they will soon lose interest and the franchise may very well fail. As the franchisor, you need to ensure that the profit distribution is fair. This is key - try aim for a win-win situation!
5. Can you afford to become a member of FASA (Franchise Association of South Africa)
• Consider franchising your business when you can afford to be a member of the Franchise Association of South Africa! Currently it costs over R12 000 per year to be a member. This adds a significant amount of credibility to your business and if you are serious about franchising this is an absolute must.
Once you have decided that your business concept is suitable for franchising ie. It can be built on solid foundations, then start putting the steps into motion to franchise your business. The franchising process is not an overnight procedure and rushing into it can result in costly mistakes. Plan well and execute plans professionally.
By Louise Sanders
Tuesday, December 2, 2008
Promote your Franchise at Franchise Expos in 2009
Don't forget to book your space at a Franchise Expo in 2009! Here are two to think about for the new year!
South African International Franchise Show
Franchising is considered the cradle of innovative entrepreneurship and visitors to IFE 2009 expect to see the full spectrum of franchise business opportunities. Whether you are an established franchise or a new concept, you need to be on IFE 2009! IFE attracts the most concentrated pool of quality visitors who are looking to invest in a franchise opportunity. If recruitment is your goal, then IFE is the place to be!
Dates: 2 – 4th April 2009
Venue: Sandton Convention Centre, Exhibition 1
Hours: 10h00 to 18h00
Should be interested in exhibiting, please contact Nishi Naicker at FASA
Tel: (011) 615 0359
Fax: (011) 615 3679
Email: nishi.naicker@fasa.co.za
Franchise & Business Opportunities Expo
The Franchise & Business Opportunities Expo now in it’s15th year, is firmly positioned as the ultimate platform for the franchise, investment and business opportunities market. The showcase which is more that just an Expo, assists aspiring entrepreneurs & small to medium business owners, to change their lifestyle or career paths by owning their own businesses and gives Franchisors and companies offering Business Opportunities the invaluable opportunity to meet face to face with potential new investors.
When: Dates to be confirmed (Friday, 21 August 2009 to Sunday, 23 August 2009)
Where: Cape Town Central
Categories: Exhibitions & Conferences
Venue: CTICC (Cape Town International Convention Centre)
Hours: 09:00 - 17:00 Daily
Entrance fee: Free Entry
Should be interested in exhibiting, please contact:
Thebe Exhibitions (Pty) LTD
Tel: +27 11 549 8300
South African International Franchise Show
Franchising is considered the cradle of innovative entrepreneurship and visitors to IFE 2009 expect to see the full spectrum of franchise business opportunities. Whether you are an established franchise or a new concept, you need to be on IFE 2009! IFE attracts the most concentrated pool of quality visitors who are looking to invest in a franchise opportunity. If recruitment is your goal, then IFE is the place to be!
Dates: 2 – 4th April 2009
Venue: Sandton Convention Centre, Exhibition 1
Hours: 10h00 to 18h00
Should be interested in exhibiting, please contact Nishi Naicker at FASA
Tel: (011) 615 0359
Fax: (011) 615 3679
Email: nishi.naicker@fasa.co.za
Franchise & Business Opportunities Expo
The Franchise & Business Opportunities Expo now in it’s15th year, is firmly positioned as the ultimate platform for the franchise, investment and business opportunities market. The showcase which is more that just an Expo, assists aspiring entrepreneurs & small to medium business owners, to change their lifestyle or career paths by owning their own businesses and gives Franchisors and companies offering Business Opportunities the invaluable opportunity to meet face to face with potential new investors.
When: Dates to be confirmed (Friday, 21 August 2009 to Sunday, 23 August 2009)
Where: Cape Town Central
Categories: Exhibitions & Conferences
Venue: CTICC (Cape Town International Convention Centre)
Hours: 09:00 - 17:00 Daily
Entrance fee: Free Entry
Should be interested in exhibiting, please contact:
Thebe Exhibitions (Pty) LTD
Tel: +27 11 549 8300
Monday, December 1, 2008
Does your franchise need a makeover?
If you have ever watched the TV program Peter Perfect (on DSTV’s Style Network), presented by Peter Ishkahns, you will know that image is everything!! Peter visits businesses in serious need of a makeover and transforms not only the business but in many cases the lives of the owners too. He gives businesses strategies to increase sales, does a full re-design of the client’s shop including a new logo AND gives the employees and owner a complete image makeover. The before and after shots are jaw-dropping and Peter literally exposes how much potential these businesses have. By creating a new image for the business he essentially creates a brand, a visual image of the business for the customers to remember which is key. I am a great fan of this program and Peter, well, he is just hysterical and he is brutally honest too but no Simon Cowell stuff here (Thank God!). The program has made me notice so many businesses in need of “Peter Perfect” and my husband and I will often see shops and say “that shop needs Peter!”. We have said that so many times which has made me beg the question, is your business or franchise in need of a makeover? So often, businesses forget about their image or don’t pay much attention to it and it can be detrimental in the long run when customers are drawn to a more image conscious shop down the road!
I was at a shopping centre yesterday and my eyes nearly dislodged themselves from my head when I saw that a coffee shop, which hasn’t changed its image in a decade, transformed itself! Eureka! Instead of being a dark and somewhat dingy place to go and drink coffee, it was now a warm yet light, fresh and inviting place to go and meet with friends and have a cappuccino. Not to mention that this place was swarming with people - clearly this image makeover was a smart business decision and will have a huge impact on their bottom line.
I was at a shopping centre yesterday and my eyes nearly dislodged themselves from my head when I saw that a coffee shop, which hasn’t changed its image in a decade, transformed itself! Eureka! Instead of being a dark and somewhat dingy place to go and drink coffee, it was now a warm yet light, fresh and inviting place to go and meet with friends and have a cappuccino. Not to mention that this place was swarming with people - clearly this image makeover was a smart business decision and will have a huge impact on their bottom line.
Friday, November 21, 2008
Take Part in our E-Book Survey
Calling all company owners, entrepreneurs and business savvy individuals!
CLICK HERE TO TAKE PART IN OUR SURVEY
We are currently conducting research on the use of business e-books in South Africa and internationally. With everyone going "green" these days, e-books are a great option for the eco-conscious but they also provide useful content quickly and cost-effectively.
To stand the chance to win a luxury liqueur and chocolate hamper all you have to do is answer seven SHORT questions relating to e-books! Easy Stuff! Help us make Franchise Finder a better website and take part in our survey by Clicking Here
CLICK HERE TO TAKE PART IN OUR SURVEY
We are currently conducting research on the use of business e-books in South Africa and internationally. With everyone going "green" these days, e-books are a great option for the eco-conscious but they also provide useful content quickly and cost-effectively.
To stand the chance to win a luxury liqueur and chocolate hamper all you have to do is answer seven SHORT questions relating to e-books! Easy Stuff! Help us make Franchise Finder a better website and take part in our survey by Clicking Here
Friday, November 14, 2008
Meet the Team at Limelight Websites
Meet the team behind Franchise Finder and Limelight Websites!
Left to Right: Elzet Pederson, Candice Wharren, Lauren Webb, Louise Sanders
Left to Right: Elzet Pederson, Candice Wharren, Lauren Webb, Louise Sanders
Thursday, October 30, 2008
Seminar - Consumer Protection Bill
How the New Consumer Protection Bill will affect Franchises.
Date: 13 November 2008
Guest Speakers: Prof. Tanya Woker (Franchise law expert) & Advocate Neville Melville (ex Banking Ombudsman, who was closely involved with the drafting of the Bill)
The Consumer Protection Bill was presented to the National Assembly on Friday 26th September and in response to this there will be a seminar at Gallagher Conference Centre in Midrand on 13 November 2008. The seminar will explain how the bill will affect businesses, clubs and especially franchisors.
Contact Lily Melville - L&N Events 0845824495 /012-8071379 or email her at lily@wol.co.za for more info or to book.
Date: 13 November 2008
Guest Speakers: Prof. Tanya Woker (Franchise law expert) & Advocate Neville Melville (ex Banking Ombudsman, who was closely involved with the drafting of the Bill)
The Consumer Protection Bill was presented to the National Assembly on Friday 26th September and in response to this there will be a seminar at Gallagher Conference Centre in Midrand on 13 November 2008. The seminar will explain how the bill will affect businesses, clubs and especially franchisors.
Contact Lily Melville - L&N Events 0845824495 /012-8071379 or email her at lily@wol.co.za for more info or to book.
Friday, October 17, 2008
Quality Control at Restaurant Franchises
We were horrified to experience quality control at its worst at a local franchised restaurant recently. Six out of seven of us ordered what sounded like the best item on the menu – pepper encrusted seared tuna and wasabi mash for a not-so-cheap R89. Well, the food itself didn’t look as good as the menu description sounded but nevertheless we were hungry and we all know that looks can be deceiving so we dug in. It didn’t take too long before we made the discovery that our mash potato was in fact the camping convenience version – Smash. Now Smash is all very good and well but when the menu says mash potato then for crying in a bucket serve mash potato! We actually confronted the manager about it and he didn’t try and deny anything and didn’t seem to see anything wrong with it either. His reason was that Smash was much easier to make, well DUH but we are not camping buddy!!
This is where many restaurants fail because if they don’t get it right the first time, many people will never go back. Perhaps a couple of nice, friendly people will give them a second chance but this is really the minority. We will never go back and eat there again! We actually wrote a letter of complaint to the head franchisor and they subsequently gave us a R500 voucher for any of their franchised stores but to be totally honest we don’t really want to go back even if it’s free! The head franchise office mentioned that they had strict quality control (really?) and that serving any mash potato substitute was not acceptable. Their response was much appreciated.
Enforcing these quality control measures is difficult though because the head franchisor will often only find out when there has been a complaint and by that time it is usually too late –the customer has been lost to some other restaurant! So if you own a franchise or have just bought a franchise, the lesson is to serve what’s on the menu, don’t take short cuts!
This is where many restaurants fail because if they don’t get it right the first time, many people will never go back. Perhaps a couple of nice, friendly people will give them a second chance but this is really the minority. We will never go back and eat there again! We actually wrote a letter of complaint to the head franchisor and they subsequently gave us a R500 voucher for any of their franchised stores but to be totally honest we don’t really want to go back even if it’s free! The head franchise office mentioned that they had strict quality control (really?) and that serving any mash potato substitute was not acceptable. Their response was much appreciated.
Enforcing these quality control measures is difficult though because the head franchisor will often only find out when there has been a complaint and by that time it is usually too late –the customer has been lost to some other restaurant! So if you own a franchise or have just bought a franchise, the lesson is to serve what’s on the menu, don’t take short cuts!
Friday, October 3, 2008
New development looking for Restaurant Franchisors
The Marketing Manager of an upmarket development in dullstroom is looking for a franchisor or franchisee to open an upmarket restaurant or coffee shop in the development. The development consists of 9 shops and a restaurant and the building will be completed March 2009. If you are interested, please phone Mr Alex Kilbride on
083 443 4350
083 443 4350
Franchise India 2008
International franchise shows are always a great place to get business ideas and to meet other franchisors. Franchise India 2008 takes place on the 29th & 30th November in Delhi, India. The flagship International Franchise show held annually is now returning in its 6th edition with Franchise India 2008.
For more info please visit www.franchiseindia.net
For more info please visit www.franchiseindia.net
Monday, September 15, 2008
Beware of Rogue Franchises
New franchises enter the market on a monthly basis and whilst the majority of them have a sound business and legal framework, there will always be a select few whose business practices are somewhat questionable if not illegal. These franchisors may not be “out to get you” as such but they may not have necessarily invested the time or money into setting up their franchise system properly (consulting lawyers, investors etc) to ensure the longevity of the concept. With no structure for growth, support or development, franchises are bound to fail. In other situations, franchisors may knowingly make false claims and promises about earning potential and various other aspects of the franchise. When considering purchasing a franchise, remember to get everything in writing. If the franchisor makes a claim, then ask for the information that it was based on and check whether it is verifiable. Get your lawyer or accountant to verify the claims, don’t just automatically trust the person because of the way they look or sound as this can be deceiving. If in doubt about a franchise, a great way of getting an honest opinion is to get testimonials from the franchisees themselves. Ask for names and contacts of existing franchisees and get their personal opinion of the franchise. If the franchisor refuses for whatever reason then consider that a red flag and run!! Lastly don’t pay any money over to a franchise without reading and completing an agreement that your lawyer has approved.
Purchasing a franchise is an investment in your future so make sure that you take the time and the necessary steps to ensure that your money is well spent. Don’t be rushed into making a decision, ask questions, speak to franchisees and always get everything in ink!
Purchasing a franchise is an investment in your future so make sure that you take the time and the necessary steps to ensure that your money is well spent. Don’t be rushed into making a decision, ask questions, speak to franchisees and always get everything in ink!
Friday, August 29, 2008
5 Key Factors to Running a Successful Retail Franchise
We all come into contact with businesses every single day. Often we deal with businesses that are mediocre – There is nothing “wrong” with them but there is nothing terribly exciting about them either.
Occasionally we’ll be lucky enough to deal with a business that operates “text book style”. They are refreshing in their professionalism and service and when we come across businesses like this we should take the opportunity to use it as a benchmark for what we’d like our own business to measure up to.
Here are 5 key factors to make sure that your retail business measures up to the best!
1. Offer Exceptional Customer Service:
This should go without saying but so often companies forget that a polite “hello, how can I help you” or a professional and prompt dealing with a customer complaint can actually mean the difference between a repeat customer and one that goes over the road to the competition. Customer service isn’t just about big white smiles and being polite, it’s also about being efficient and going the extra mile for customers. A good example of “going the extra mile” is when a store calls one of their other branches trying to locate a particular product for a customer. In the case of exceptional service, the store would actually orchestrate the transfer of the product to the store closest to the customer and ensure that they received it!
Companies need to foster an environment where all employees have a thorough understanding of what good customer service is. This can be achieved through on-going training sessions of company policies and practical examples.
2. Make Sure that your Business is Well Stocked with Products
How can businesses operate without any stock? The answer is they can’t operate, well not for very long anyway! Investing in too little stock is such a common business mistake that it is surprising that so many people still do it. The downward spiral begins with the decision to invest a small amount in stock (be it lack of funds or fear of investing too much), customers then don’t feel as though they have enough choice, they can’t find the products they are looking for and any request for a product is met with “sorry, we are out of stock”. The shop then loses customers daily which also has a ripple effect because people tell their friends, yes, people talk! Sales drop, in fact they reach an all time low and the cycle repeats itself until the owner is forced to put a closing down sign on the door.
This kind of thing occurs around the world on a daily basis but the good news is that it can be avoided. The key is to invest a significant amount in stock and keep stock levels at an acceptable level. In doing so, businesses give their customers more choice and make more sales at the same time!
3. Keep With The Times
There are always a few stores that get stuck in a time warp and one wonders how they survive. Perhaps their most loyal customers get stuck in the time warp with them!?
Successful retail stores keep up to date with trends, technology and new products. They source different and unique products as well as those in demand by customers and the market in general. Magazines, customer surveys, international trends, blogs and industry websites are great ways for retail stores to keep up to date.
4. Train Your Staff Well
Training staff is an integral part of running a successful retail store. Customers don’t have time to wait at a checkout counter while new staff try and figure out the invoicing software. Staff need to know exactly where groups of products are placed, they need to be able to guide customers to the products they are looking for, give useful advice and be knowledgeable on products. Nothing makes a customer walk out of a shop faster than a sales person who doesn’t know what they are talking about.
5. Offer Seasonal Discounts and Loyalty Programs.
Customers like to feel special and enjoy being rewarded for spending money at a store they visit regularly. Loyalty programs can be implemented in both small and large stores with relative ease. Customers will not only feel as though they are benefitting from shopping at a store that offers an incentive program but they are also likely to become more loyal supporters of the store in the long-run.
Seasonal specials are a great way to clear old stock and to get more feet in the door. Customers might purchase “sale” items but they may very well buy higher priced items not on sale as well. Sales, specials and discounts should be planned for specific times/seasons during the year and marketing campaigns should be put in place to promote these events.
Transform your retail store into one that becomes the benchmark for others to aspire to. Integrate these points into your business policies, mission and vision statements, make them the foundation of your business and communicate them clearly to your staff. Make the decision and take the steps to be an exceptional business and you’ll never look back!
Author: Franchise Finder, Online Directory of Franchises and Business Opportunities in South Africa
Occasionally we’ll be lucky enough to deal with a business that operates “text book style”. They are refreshing in their professionalism and service and when we come across businesses like this we should take the opportunity to use it as a benchmark for what we’d like our own business to measure up to.
Here are 5 key factors to make sure that your retail business measures up to the best!
1. Offer Exceptional Customer Service:
This should go without saying but so often companies forget that a polite “hello, how can I help you” or a professional and prompt dealing with a customer complaint can actually mean the difference between a repeat customer and one that goes over the road to the competition. Customer service isn’t just about big white smiles and being polite, it’s also about being efficient and going the extra mile for customers. A good example of “going the extra mile” is when a store calls one of their other branches trying to locate a particular product for a customer. In the case of exceptional service, the store would actually orchestrate the transfer of the product to the store closest to the customer and ensure that they received it!
Companies need to foster an environment where all employees have a thorough understanding of what good customer service is. This can be achieved through on-going training sessions of company policies and practical examples.
2. Make Sure that your Business is Well Stocked with Products
How can businesses operate without any stock? The answer is they can’t operate, well not for very long anyway! Investing in too little stock is such a common business mistake that it is surprising that so many people still do it. The downward spiral begins with the decision to invest a small amount in stock (be it lack of funds or fear of investing too much), customers then don’t feel as though they have enough choice, they can’t find the products they are looking for and any request for a product is met with “sorry, we are out of stock”. The shop then loses customers daily which also has a ripple effect because people tell their friends, yes, people talk! Sales drop, in fact they reach an all time low and the cycle repeats itself until the owner is forced to put a closing down sign on the door.
This kind of thing occurs around the world on a daily basis but the good news is that it can be avoided. The key is to invest a significant amount in stock and keep stock levels at an acceptable level. In doing so, businesses give their customers more choice and make more sales at the same time!
3. Keep With The Times
There are always a few stores that get stuck in a time warp and one wonders how they survive. Perhaps their most loyal customers get stuck in the time warp with them!?
Successful retail stores keep up to date with trends, technology and new products. They source different and unique products as well as those in demand by customers and the market in general. Magazines, customer surveys, international trends, blogs and industry websites are great ways for retail stores to keep up to date.
4. Train Your Staff Well
Training staff is an integral part of running a successful retail store. Customers don’t have time to wait at a checkout counter while new staff try and figure out the invoicing software. Staff need to know exactly where groups of products are placed, they need to be able to guide customers to the products they are looking for, give useful advice and be knowledgeable on products. Nothing makes a customer walk out of a shop faster than a sales person who doesn’t know what they are talking about.
5. Offer Seasonal Discounts and Loyalty Programs.
Customers like to feel special and enjoy being rewarded for spending money at a store they visit regularly. Loyalty programs can be implemented in both small and large stores with relative ease. Customers will not only feel as though they are benefitting from shopping at a store that offers an incentive program but they are also likely to become more loyal supporters of the store in the long-run.
Seasonal specials are a great way to clear old stock and to get more feet in the door. Customers might purchase “sale” items but they may very well buy higher priced items not on sale as well. Sales, specials and discounts should be planned for specific times/seasons during the year and marketing campaigns should be put in place to promote these events.
Transform your retail store into one that becomes the benchmark for others to aspire to. Integrate these points into your business policies, mission and vision statements, make them the foundation of your business and communicate them clearly to your staff. Make the decision and take the steps to be an exceptional business and you’ll never look back!
Author: Franchise Finder, Online Directory of Franchises and Business Opportunities in South Africa
Monday, August 25, 2008
Graffiti Removal Services Successfully Removes Largest Graffiti Tag
South African franchise Grafitti Removal Services (GRS) shows its muscle in helping to keep South Africa clean and Graffiti free. Vandals had sprayed a massive Graffiti tag under a bridge at the Riverhorse Valley Business Estate in full view to drivers on the N2 (Durban). Well Done guys!!
Friday, August 15, 2008
Franchise Lingo
So what is the difference between a Franchise, Franchisor and a Franchisee? What is a Franchise Agreement? All this franchise lingo can get a bit confusing so here is an excerpt from our newly created glossary!
Franchise:
A business concept that offers specific products or services and takes on a certain business identity. The business concept is usually repeated numerous times throughout an area by franchisees purchasing and running their own franchise in a specific area/s as determined by the developer of the concept (franchisor).
Franchisor:
A franchisor is the developer and owner of a franchise concept. The franchisor is responsible for growing the franchise concept whether it be locally, internationally or both and for ensuring the consistency of the brand and service amongst the franchisees.
Franchisee:
A franchisee is the owner of a particular franchise in a particular area/s. A franchisee buys a franchise from the franchisor and is responsible to run that franchise business in that area.
Franchise Agreement:
A document that contains the details of the franchise purchase and agreements between the franchisor and franchisee. It may contain information on initial fees, ongoing fees, obligations of both the franchisor and franchisee with regards to the start-up and running of the business, territorial/ area limitations, legal information and conditions as well as general information, rules and regulations.
Franchise:
A business concept that offers specific products or services and takes on a certain business identity. The business concept is usually repeated numerous times throughout an area by franchisees purchasing and running their own franchise in a specific area/s as determined by the developer of the concept (franchisor).
Franchisor:
A franchisor is the developer and owner of a franchise concept. The franchisor is responsible for growing the franchise concept whether it be locally, internationally or both and for ensuring the consistency of the brand and service amongst the franchisees.
Franchisee:
A franchisee is the owner of a particular franchise in a particular area/s. A franchisee buys a franchise from the franchisor and is responsible to run that franchise business in that area.
Franchise Agreement:
A document that contains the details of the franchise purchase and agreements between the franchisor and franchisee. It may contain information on initial fees, ongoing fees, obligations of both the franchisor and franchisee with regards to the start-up and running of the business, territorial/ area limitations, legal information and conditions as well as general information, rules and regulations.
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