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Thursday, January 15, 2026

5 tips for launching your franchise

Are you drawn to entrepreneurship, but intimidated by the idea of starting from scratch? franchise presents itself as an interesting model, combining theindependence of the business owner with the security of a concept that has already proven itself. But how to avoid common mistakes and ensure solid management from the outset?

In this article, discover 5 tips for starting a franchise under good conditions.

Defining one's profile and ambitions

Even before browsing franchise catalogs, the most crucial step is...introspectionSuccess in franchising depends not only on the concept, but above all on the match between your profile, your aspirations and the requirements of the chosen network.

Understanding your franchisee entrepreneur profile

Being a franchisee means being a independent business owner, but with one key difference: you join a know-how and one concept that you agree to respect to the letter.

Ability to follow rules: Are you ready to apply strict procedures (operating manuals, graphic charter, communication, etc.)? Discipline and team spirit are essential, as the success of the network depends on the homogeneity of the offering;

Personal skills: The franchisee is a manager, a salesperson and an administrator. Evaluate your leadership skills, your resistance to stress and your ability to fully commit (franchising is not a passive investment);

Real motivations: Why choose a franchise over starting your own business? The search for security, access to a recognized brand, and support are legitimate motivations. Make sure the business sector you're considering aligns with your values and passions, because the commitment must be total.

Assessing one's financial potential and personal contribution

Each franchise requires an initial investment which includes, in particular, the entrance fee, the fitting out of the premises, the purchase of stock and a working capital requirement (WCR).

Personal contribution: This is the amount you personally have available (savings, grants, etc.) that does not come from a loan. It represents on average 30% to 50% of the total investment. A substantial down payment reassures banks and franchisors;

Financial arrangement: Once the contribution has been determined, you will need to develop a solid business plan To convince the banks to grant the additional financing, don't hesitate to seek the assistance of a chartered accountant to validate the projected profitability of your project.

Choosing the right sector and the ideal network

The franchise sector is vast, ranging from food (the leading sector in terms of overall revenue) to personal services (a rapidly growing sector). Making an informed choice is the foundation of your future success.

Identify promising sectors and align with the market

Market research is essential to determine the viability of your project in the targeted geographic area.

It allows for analysis market trends, in particular recent developments (such as digitalization, environmental concerns, etc.). For example, a franchise in personal services or repair could be particularly relevant today.

Analysis of local competition is also essential. Even with a national brand, the local environment is crucial. Are there already direct or indirect competitors in your potential location? Can your concept stand out there?

Mastering the legal and administrative framework

Franchising is not a legal status in itself, but a business model governed by a contract. You will nevertheless need to create your own legal structure.

Deciphering the pre-contractual information document (DIP)

The franchisor has a legal obligation to provide you with the Disclosure Document at least 20 days before The signing of the contract or the payment of any sum. This document is crucial.

The content of the DIP: It must contain all the essential information so that you can make an informed decision:

The presentation of the franchisor and their experience;
The state and outlook of the market concerned;
The list of franchisees in the network (their seniority, and sometimes those who have left the network);
Financial obligations (entrance fees, royalties, etc.).

Expert help: Never sign a pre-contractual information document (DIP) without having it reviewed by a specialist lawyer or accountant. These professionals will help you understand the complex clauses, particularly those relating to territorial exclusivity, supply, or termination conditions.

Choose the legal status that best suits your project

The franchisee is an entrepreneur and must therefore choose the legal structure of their business. In principle, creating a limited liability company (SARL) is preferred for a franchise, but other options are possible:

Companies: SAS/SASU and SARL/EURL

The SAS (Simplified Joint-Stock Company) and the SASU (single-member company) offer great flexibility in drafting the articles of association. The manager is assimilated employee, which gives it better social protection. It is often the preferred form, particularly because it is easy to attract future investors;

The SARL (Limited Liability Company) and the EURL (Single-Member Limited Liability Company) are more regulated and the majority shareholder is subject to the social security scheme of Self-Employed Workers (TNS).

Sole proprietorship (EI) and micro-enterprise

These statutes are rare in franchises because they limit turnover and do not allow for the deduction of all expenses, which is often incompatible with the economic model of a franchise (entry fees, royalties, investments).

Establish a personalized and solid business plan

Even if the franchisor provides you with forecast data, your success will depend on your own business planHe must convince the banks and validate the local viability of your project.

Budgeting for the initial investment and working capital requirement

The actual cost will vary depending on your location, the size of your premises and the fit-out work.

The key expenditure items are:

Access fees: entry fee, training fees;
Investments: purchase/rental of premises, works, equipment (materials, IT);
Departure costs: initial stock, recruitment and training of staff;
Starting cash flow (BFR): the amount needed to cover initial expenses before the business generates sufficient revenue.

Projected expenses: include all recurring network charges: royalties on turnover, communication/marketing royalties (local and national advertising).

Preparing your geographical location

Location is one of the major factors for success. The franchisor will often help you (through geomarketing studies), but the final decision is yours.

The catchment area: the geographical area from which the majority of your customers will come. Make sure it is large enough and that the flow of potential customers is in line with your concept;

Visibility and accessibility: Whether for a city center business or a retail space on the outskirts, the visibility of the sign and ease of access (public transport, parking) are crucial, especially for a independent retailer accustomed to the importance of his point of sale

To fully commit to support and networking

One of the main advantages of franchising is theassistance provided by the franchisor. To succeed, you must exploit this advantage to the fullest.

Benefit from initial training and ongoing support

The transfer of know-how is the very essence of the franchise agreement. It takes place in two stages.

Initial training: It must be comprehensive and cover all aspects of the profession (production/sales techniques, management, local marketing). Evaluate its duration and content before committing;

Post-opening support: A good franchisor ensures regular follow-up with its franchisees (visits from facilitators, digital tools, hotline).

Cultivating a network mindset

Mutual support between franchisees is an often underestimated performance lever.

Sharing best practices: The network must enable and encourage exchanges. Actively participate in annual seminars, regional meetings and discussion groups;

Upload the information: You are in the best position to know the situation on the ground. By constructively providing your suggestions and feedback to the franchisor, you contribute to the positive evolution of the concept and know-how.

By clearly defining your profile, thoroughly auditing the franchisor and their concept, and securing your legal and financial structure, you maximize your chances of successful franchise management!

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