Is a Franchise an Opportunity for Success?
February 20, 2009
Have you even considered owning a franchise as a means to be successful? Is it an opportunity for success or a glorified job?
I think it would be cool to come up with the concept for business and then be the person to sell the franchises out to others. That to me would be success. Maybe starting as a franchise owner is a way to get your foot in the door on what franchises are all about. Is Chipotle a franchise? Mmmm Chipotle….I think I am just hungry.
Is this the year you become a small business owner?
Whether your job security is in question because of a shaky economy or you’re eager to take the leap into being an entrepreneur, you may be ready to make a change for financial fitness and career satisfaction.
One of the easiest ways to be your own boss is to own a franchise. When you own a franchise, you’re in business for yourself, but not by yourself. Parent companies provide a built-in support system so you’re not in the dark. Most provide comprehensive training that allows you to build your new business on a solid foundation.
Franchises offer a proven business model, name recognition and brand awareness – so you’re not starting out establishing those things on your own. Additionally, your investment is usually lower, your start-up time quicker and your supply lines already established.
Franchises are often a wonderful opportunity, particularly if you live in a rural or outlying community as these areas are often under-served by franchises. Outer ring suburbs or rural communities typically offer less expensive land and franchise owners can take advantage of a unique niche in the market. State and local governments are increasingly investing in outlying and rural communities and generous tax advantages are often available to franchise owners starting a business there. Once established, locally-owned franchises can quickly become a vital part of a smaller community.
One such success story belongs to Mark and Maureen Schopp who own three Snap Fitness franchises in small towns in Missouri. “The Snap Fitness business model was so simple, I didn’t have to invent anything,” says Mark Schopp.
The Schopps chose three small towns with 10,000 or fewer residents and business is booming. “Everyone appreciates not having to go so far. It’s really convenient for our members,” says Schopp. “We’re not off-site owners and we really like that small-town feel. Members like knowing that they can get in touch with us if they need to. Our cell phone numbers are posted in all our clubs.”
Snap Fitness offers a proven, affordable concept in the growing 24/7 fitness industry. The workout studios offer state-of-the-art equipment with a small footprint, allowing franchise owners to offer their neighbors quick, convenient and affordable workouts just minutes from their doorsteps.
“A Snap Fitness franchise is easy to afford and easy to manage and it’s a great opportunity for anyone to turn wellness into wealth,” says Peter Taunton, chief executive officer of Snap Fitness. “Economically, this industry has averaged an 8 percent annual growth rate for the past 15 years.”
Whether you’re looking for more job security, or the satisfaction of being your own boss, franchising offers an entrepreneurial opportunity with a low initial investment and a lower break even point so you turn a profit faster.
To research more opportunities for financial freedom, contact the International Franchise Association. For more information on affordable franchise opportunities with Snap Fitness, visit http://www.snapfitness.com/
ARA
