Multi-Unit Franchisees – a strategic network growth path

Across the entire franchise sector, there is a growth opportunity which very often is ignored or there is no strategic plan in place to exploit. Where success often hinges on innovation and adaptability, there exists vast potential for both franchisors and franchisees to explore – the concept of multi-unit franchises. While many franchisors traditionally emphasize building businesses as single units, encouraging franchisees to consider broader expansion strategies can lead to substantial growth opportunities for all parties involved.

The Potential of Multi-Unit Franchisees

Franchisors often find themselves focusing on individual unit growth, spending huge amounts of financial resource attracting new franchisee applicants. However, the landscape is evolving, and visionary franchisors have begun to recognize the potential in multi-unit franchisees as a strategy for growth. By embracing this, not only can franchisees experience accelerated growth, but franchisors potentially sell territories quicker and at a significantly lower acquisition cost.

Changing the Status Quo: Encouraging Multi-Unit Franchisee Expansion

Education and Communication:

Franchisors should prioritize educating franchisees about the benefits and feasibility of multi-unit ownership. Transparent communication about the potential for increased profits, reduced risk, and shared resources can inspire franchisees to consider expansion beyond a single unit.

Financial Support:

One significant hurdle for franchisees considering multi-unit ownership is financing. Franchisors can facilitate this process by offering financial support. This can be through reduced franchise fees for additional units, assistance with securing funding, or establishing partnerships with financial institutions.

Streamlined Operations:

Franchisors can encourage multi-unit franchisee ownership by implementing streamlined operational systems. This includes providing efficient training programs, centralized supply chain management, and technology solutions that simplify the management of multiple units. A clear strategic plan needs to be in place which helps franchisees transition easily from single unit operator to multi unit franchisee.

Top Performing Franchisees

Having a process in place to identifying top performing franchisee within the franchise network is key. Working closely with top performing franchisees allows franchisors to understand individuals growth aspirations. Helping them to overcome any self limiting beliefs allows them think growth beyond their original expectations. Helping them develop as business leaders will set the stage for discussions about multi unit ownership as part of their growth.

Supporting Multi Unit Franchisee Growth

Ongoing Training and Development:

Franchisors must invest in continuous training and development programs for franchisees, preparing them for the challenges and responsibilities of managing multiple units or brands. This ensures a smooth transition and sustained success.

Mentorship Programs:

Establishing mentorship programs where successful multi-unit franchisees guide and support those considering expansion can be invaluable. This is most successfully achieved through professionally facilitated peer groups. Real-world insights and advice from existing muti unit franchisees can empower others to grow in a similar manner. Each member of the group become accountability partners helping ensure growth goals are met.

Recognition and Incentives:

Franchisors should actively recognize and reward franchisees who successfully embrace multi-unit or multi-brand strategies. This not only motivates existing franchisees but also serves as a powerful incentive for others to explore similar opportunities.

Franchising continues to evolve. The time is ripe for franchisors to champion the cause of multi-unit ownership. By fostering a culture of innovation, providing support, and actively promoting the benefits of expansion, franchisors can unlock new avenues of growth for their franchisees and themselves. Embracing change today ensures a more robust and resilient future for the entire franchising ecosystem.

Tim Morris has more than 30 years experience managing and supporting franchise operations around the world. He has a success record of driving sales and profits, managing multi-site units. He has positively influenced individual franchise owners in franchise B2B and B2C environments. Tim has seen particular success supporting groups of high performing franchisees in peer group settings. And has managed teams, developing and implementing sales and marketing strategies. With senior leadership experience, he has achieved 80% growth in net profit through motivation and development of teams. From assisting with the expansion of an international franchise brand to heading up the support functions of both national and international franchise systems, he has been instrumental in the growth of hundreds of franchisees. His proven success record comes with a passion for ‘360 business development’ and his unique perspective empowers franchisors and franchisees alike to get the very best from their partnership.