When we talk with business owners, they usually want to know what the annual economic outlook is. Well, even though the United States economy is reported to be “in the toilet,” the franchising world is booming. Some reports indicate that the increase will be well over 100% growth. Professionals with a long line of career successes, are utilizing their savings …
What is the “Right” Franchise For Me?
Article by: Lynne D. SheltonMany blue-collar workers and professionals alike are taking their savings plans and investing them in themselves. So which franchise system should they invest in? Well the decision to purchase a franchise is the easy part, but choosing the right franchise for you requires several steps of self-identityandin-depth decisions. Trust A Consultant There are many companies and professionals that will gladly …
Area Development Agreements in the Florida Climate
Article by: Jason W. PowerTo read this article from its publication source, please click here. When thinking about buying a franchise, one option to always keep in mind is becoming an Area Developer. Most Franchisors choose to sell multi-unit franchises (Area Developers), as well as the standard single-unit franchise, to enable a broader reach for their franchise system. This marketing strategy gives Area Developers …
Operation Manuals
Article by: Lynne D. SheltonWhen you, the Franchisor, retain Shelton Law & Associates to review or write your operation manuals for your franchisees, you will receive a full review of your existing documents first, followed by a full comprehensive strategy meeting with upper level managers and trainers. Upon the discovery of the best outline for your franchise, we will provide a complete set of …
Creation of Operation Manuals
Article by: Lynne D. SheltonWhen you, the Franchisor, retain Shelton Law & Associates to review or write your operation manuals for your franchisees, you will receive a full review of your existing documents first, followed by a full comprehensive strategy meeting with upper level managers and trainers. Upon the discovery of the best outline for your franchise, we will provide a complete set of …
Franchisee Mistakes
Article by: Lynne D. SheltonAt Shelton Law & Associates, we are commonly asked about what to avoid in entering into a franchise. Below are the 4 biggest mistakes that Franchisees make. However, they all revolve around time. So remember, do not rush, take the time to ensure you are making a solid business decision. 1. Not reading and understanding all of the documents. Many …
Penalties for Violating Franchise Laws
Article by: Lynne D. SheltonThe Federal Trade Commission (“FTC”) and the State agencies governing franchises take the hundreds of complaints they receive each year very seriously. Using the FTC Rule, courts have penalized Franchisors through civil fines, rescission, monetary damages, and personal liability for the owners of the franchisor. Civil fines have been levied for up to $11,000 per day, per violation. In one …
Best Practices to Protect Trade Secrets
Article by: Jason W. Power & Lynne D. SheltonTo protect its Intellectual Property Rights (“IPR”) by demonstrating that certain information qualifies as a trade secret, companies should consider the following: 1. Develop and Implement an Overall Intellectual Property Rights Protection Program. Whether a company is just starting out or is a multinational company with enormous revenues, an effective IPR protection strategy or program (“Program”) is critical to a …
Can it become a brand?
Article by: Lynne D. SheltonAt Shelton & Law, LLC we are constantly asked whether we think a system can become a brand. Whether a business is franchisable depends on many issues. Below is our Top 10 checklist to determine whether your business could become a franchise system. 1. Financial Security. Franchising is a low cost expansion method compared to other methods; however the cost …
What Is a Franchise?
Article by: Lynne D. SheltonA franchise can exist even when it is not called a “franchise” by name. By statute, certain dealers and distributorship programs can actually be classified as franchises. If you have any questions whether your brand expansion is a franchise or not, contact a knowledgeable franchise attorney. Franchises are typically utilized for business expansion. There are traditionally two parties to a …