Despite difficulties in many other business areas, franchising continues to go from strength to strength with one estimate stating that UK franchises now have a combined turnover of over £12.4 billion. However Gateshead Council is concerned that many potential franchisees don’t know how to take advantage of the opportunities on offer.
Some of the best known brands operate under franchise including McDonalds and Subway however there are lots of other smaller, or newer, businesses looking to expand rapidly using the franchise model too.
Gateshead Council has joined forces with franchising experts ‘Be Franchising’ to run two introduction to franchising workshops for Gateshead residents who think they might like to become one of the estimated 37,000 franchisees operating in Britain. The workshops include information on how to buy a franchise, how the franchise model operates and what sort of opportunities are available. The workshops are free to Gateshead residents and are taking place on January 25, between 5pm and 8pm, and on February 8 between 1pm and 4pm at Gateshead Civic Centre.
Viewed as a more secure investment, banks are also more likely to look favourably on franchises, giving many people the financial kick start they need to start up their own business.
Gateshead Council cabinet member for economy and skills Cllr Malcolm Graham said: “Franchises are a great way of becoming your own boss whilst still having a level of support and backup. The number and scale of opportunities shouldn’t be underestimated either, I’d encourage anyone looking for a new opportunity in their working life to go along and find out more.”
Graham Mylchreest from Be Franchising said: “We are delighted to be working with Gateshead Council providing valuable information on franchising. We are in one of the deepest recessions, yet the franchise sector has bucked this trend and more people should be aware of the opportunities that could be available to them.”
More information on the franchising workshops is available by calling Gateshead Council on 0191 433 2855