Franchise Blog | Articles, Guides, and More

Our Blog

27 January, 2022

Why 2022 Is Set To Be The Year Of Franchise Growth

After going into survival mode for 2020 and comeback mode for 2021, many franchise brands are finally in a place to focus on expansion in 2022.

20 November, 2021

The Year In Franchising: Reflecting On 2021, And Anticipating 2022

After a gradual return to normalcy in 2021, the franchise industry — particularly home services, travel and retail sectors — made significant gains in sales and innovation.

24 September, 2021

Is Now The Time To Invest In Yourself As A Franchisee?

More and more people are turning to franchising rather than heading back to the office as a way to get the flexibility and freedom they want.

20 July, 2021

Are You Ready To Franchise Your Business?

Franchising can be a fun and exciting ride, but brands need to ensure they are properly prepared before taking the leap.

11 June, 2021

Navigating Discovery Days: Virtual Or In-Person?

Whether you call it Discovery Day, Meet the Team Day, Decision Day or something else—the day when potential franchisees meet with a franchisor’s leadership team to mutually evaluate whether it’s a fit is one of the most critical steps in a prospect’s journey.

30 April, 2021

What Happens When You Buy A Franchise?

Investing in a franchise can be a thrilling ride that starts with unknown ups and downs, twists and turns, but when it goes well, you want to do it again opening another location or territory.

31 January, 2025

Building a Team to Support a Growing Franchise System

Author: Kayla Mowery, Technical Writer and Operations Associate, SMB Expert Reviewer: Dawn Abbamondi, Chief Marketing Officer, SMB As your franchise system expands, assembling a dedicated support team becomes essential for sustained success. A well-structured team assures smooth operations, fosters growth, and maintains brand consistency across all locations. Here, we explore strategies for building and nurturing…

27 December, 2024

Importance of Trademarks in Franchising

Your brand is the foundation of your franchise. It’s what customers recognize, trust, and what franchisees invest in. Protecting it through trademarks isn’t optional, it’s essential for long-term success and stability. Effective trademark protection allows you to expand confidently, avoid legal pitfalls, and ensure consistent brand value across all franchise locations. Let’s explore why every…

19 November, 2024

Understanding Franchise Fees in the FDD

When exploring franchise opportunities, prospective franchisees often focus on the financial commitment, especially the various fees outlined in the Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD). These fees play a crucial role in supporting the franchise system’s growth and helping individual franchisees thrive. While the FDD may include multiple types of fees, here we’ll cover some of the…

8 October, 2024

Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD): A Guide to It’s 23 Items

When entering into the franchising industry, it is critical to know the key documents that help protect both the franchisor and the franchisee. The Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD) provides essential details about the franchise opportunity, helping prospective franchisees make informed decisions. As an emerging franchisor, when starting the process of franchising your business, creating this…

24 September, 2024

Your A-Z Glossary for Franchise Success

Navigating the franchise industry can be complex, with its own set of terms and jargon that are crucial for understanding the industry. Whether you’re a prospective franchisee, a seasoned franchisor, or simply interested in the franchise model, our A-Z glossary of franchising terms is here to help. Each term provides a clear and concise explanation…

9 August, 2024

How to Attract Ideal Franchisees

Expanding your business through franchising is a strategic way to grow, but it requires the right franchisees to be successful. The ideal franchisee will align with your brand’s culture and values while bringing strong leadership skills and a willingness to learn and adapt. Here’s how to attract franchisees who will drive your brand’s growth. Prioritize…

11 July, 2024

Choosing the Right Franchise Consultants for Your Growth

Franchising your business is a significant step toward substantial growth and expansion. When working with advisors like SMB, choosing the right suppliers and franchise consultants helps ensure an efficient and successful transition. Here are the key factors to consider when selecting various franchise consultants and suppliers (financial, legal, marketing, public relations, training and technology) for…

7 June, 2024

The Difference Between Franchisors and Franchisees

The world of franchising is a dynamic and collaborative business model, providing opportunities for growth and success to both franchisors and franchisees. However, their roles, responsibilities, and perspectives within the franchise system are distinctly different. We aim to clarify these differences and illustrate how each party contributes to the overall success of the franchise. The…

7 May, 2024

What is Franchising?

Franchising is a strategic approach to business expansion that leverages established systems and brand recognition to foster growth. This model involves a relationship between the franchisor and the franchisee, where the franchisee operates under the franchisor’s brand and system. According to the International Franchise Association (IFA), “A franchise (or franchising) is a method of distributing…

5 April, 2024

Setting Yourself Up for Success: Essential Tips Across Markets

Thinking about franchising your business? It’s a significant step towards expansion and growth. However, before diving into the franchising world, there are several steps SMB recommends you have in place. Read more before franchising your business: Be Current and Relevant Meeting customer needs and demands is important to a future franchise brand. Continuously updating the…

12 March, 2024

Understanding IFA vs IFE: Which Events Should You Attend?

In the busy world of franchising, staying informed and connected is vital to success. The International Franchise Association (IFA) events and the International Franchise Expo (IFE) both offer opportunities for learning, networking, and business development. But what is the difference between them? Below are some details to help you decide which events you should attend…

13 February, 2024

How SMB Helps Small Businesses Become Big Businesses!

Turning a small business into a big one is a thrilling journey. SMB understands the dreams that drive entrepreneurs, and we are here to guide you through the process of franchising. Here are six essential questions that aspiring franchisors must answer when they consider franchising as a strategic growth option. Do you have solid operating…

15 January, 2024

How to Make 2024 the Year You Franchise

As we step into the promising year of 2024, the world of franchising is beaming with opportunities. If you are considering entering the world of franchising, now is the perfect time! In this post, we’ll explore why the franchising industry is thriving, and how you can leverage various tools, including AI advancements, consultants, and social…

19 December, 2023

Creating a Plan to Franchise Your Business

You probably had a plan when you started your business, and creating a franchise plan is also recommended to begin your brand’s expansion. To design a successful franchising plan, consider these six steps to help create your plan to franchise: Evaluate your brand’s readiness Before franchising, make sure you have a proven business model, loyal…

21 November, 2023

SMB Franchise Advisors’ Mission? Helping You To Expand Your Franchise Brand

Looking to expand your brand and connect with more customers through franchising? Below are five tips to take into consideration when franchising your brand. Franchise Creation SMB Franchise Advisors can help you turn your business into a franchise. We will help you with everything from connecting you with a legal team for FTC compliance in…

18 October, 2023

The Ultimate Game Plan: Drafting Essential Documents for a Winning Franchise

Franchising can be a great way to grow your business, but it requires specific paperwork and legal documentation. Two of the most important documents you’ll ever draft in franchising are the Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD) and the Operations Manual. Here’s what you need to know about each document: Franchise Disclosure Document The FDD is a…

Currently there are no posts in this category.

24 January, 2025

Client Spotlight: Scoops Lacrosse

Meet Scoops Lacrosse Scoops Lacrosse is redefining how young athletes discover the game. With a focus on boys and girls aged 3 to 8, Scoops introduces lacrosse in a high-energy, fun-filled environment. Founded with a passion for building confidence and coordination in kids through action-packed play, the brand has grown from local clinics in Boston…

20 December, 2024

Client Spotlight: Brooker’s Founding Flavors Ice Cream

Brooker’s Founding Flavors Ice Cream is more than just an ice cream brand; it’s a revolutionary experience that blends super-premium ice cream with a love for Early American history. Founded by Brian Brooker, this unique concept brings the spirit of America’s Founding Fathers to life with themed ice cream taverns, immersive decor, and historically inspired…

21 October, 2024

Client Spotlight: Rapid Hose

Introducing Kerri and Tiago Da Silva, the powerhouse duo behind Rapid Hose, a leading B2B mobile franchise offering onsite hydraulic hose replacement services. Focused on construction, industrial, and manufacturing sectors, their service ensures minimal downtime when critical equipment fails. With a deep understanding of their industry, they’ve honed a business model built on speed, efficiency,…

17 October, 2024

Client Spotlight: sēk Sauna Studio

Meet John and Cat Bryson, the founders of sēk Sauna Studio, where the focus is on helping people feel their best through wellness therapies. John and Cat share how sēk combines cutting-edge treatments like infrared saunas, LED light therapy, and cold plunges with a calming, spa-like atmosphere. They also talk about the studio’s journey from…

24 September, 2024

Client Spotlight: Cork and Candles

Cork & Candles is a unique BYOB retail, experiential candle bar where guests craft personalized candles by choosing from 45 different scents. Known for its fun and interactive atmosphere, it also offers novelty candle-making classes, making it a popular destination for friends to gather and create lasting memories. With three successful locations, Dave and Kenny…

4 September, 2024

Client Spotlight: Simply Cabinetry

SMB Franchise Advisors: In a few sentences, describe what Simply Cabinetry does and what your company is all about. Diana and Derrick Simmons, Simply Cabinetry: Simply Cabinetry provides kitchen and bath cabinetry through local showrooms and design studios. We cater to both contractors and DIYers, offering a range from simple stock to luxury custom cabinetry….

22 July, 2024

Client Spotlight: Cleanest Restaurant Group

Cleanest Restaurant Group specializes in the unique niche of restaurant cleaning, a service they’ve mastered for over a decade before deciding to franchise. Howie, the founder, explains how rapid growth and client demand spurred their expansion beyond New York. Discover how their innovative cleaning solutions, ambitious expansion goals, and family involvement have shaped their journey…

17 June, 2024

Client Spotlight: Sticky Fingers Cooking®

Founded by Erin Fletter in 2011, Sticky Fingers Cooking® has grown from a kitchen table idea into a national franchise that has taught over 150,000 students through 3,000 unique recipes. This after-school program combines education with fun, covering subjects like language, geography, and science. Utilizing their tech platform, Sticky Fingers Cooking Dash®, the company operates…

24 April, 2024

Client Spotlight: Tipsy Scoop™

Welcome to our “Client Spotlight,” featuring Melissa Tavss, the visionary force behind Tipsy Scoop™. Tipsy Scoop™ started in a New York City kitchen in 2014. It has transformed the frozen dessert world by mixing classic ice cream with the flair of craft cocktails. This innovation has brought a new level of enjoyment to ice cream…

4 April, 2024

Client Spotlight: The Roof Resource

Welcome to our “Client Spotlight,” featuring Mike Harvey of The Roof Resource, a company revolutionizing the roofing industry by simplifying the buying process and delivering significant savings to homeowners. In our interview, Mike shares insights into how virtual consultations have set The Roof Resource apart as the “Netflix of Residential Roofing” and his journey from…

7 December, 2023

Client Spotlight – Clean Franchise Brands

We had the outstanding opportunity to interview Kevin DuBois. Clean Franchise Brands is an environmentally friendly dry cleaning and laundry multi–brand franchising company. Their mission to define “The Future of Dry Cleaning®” began in 2000 and has been growing ever since! SMB Franchise Advisors: In a few sentences, can you describe what your brand does…

1 November, 2023

Client Spotlight – SoBol

We had the amazing chance to interview Jason Mazzarone, co-founder of Sobol. Jason first created his Acai Café in 2012 after being inspired by his family’s ice house. With his background as a chef and with a culinary arts degree, he partnered with Co-founder Jim Kalomiris, a long-time family friend with over 20 years of…

21 April, 2023

Client Spotlight – Raw Replenish

Recently we caught up with one of our clients, Kate Coleman, founder of Raw Replenish—a plant-based café with a strong focus in wellness—to hear more about her overall journey so far with franchising and her experience working with SMB.

23 March, 2023

Client Spotlight – Ivybrook Academy

We recently conducted an interview with Drew and Jennifer McWilliams, the founders of Ivybrook Academy—a brand focused on providing quality preschool programs for children between the ages of 2-6—and proud clients of SMB.

2 March, 2023

Client Spotlight – Vanity Fur

Check out our most recent Q&A with Jean Arellano, founder of Vanity Fur! They’re all about giving our furry friends the safest and most comfortable grooming experience.

12 February, 2023

Client Spotlight – Renovation Sells

Prepare to be inspired! We recently had a Q&A session with Michael and Amanda Valente, the dynamic power couple behind Renovation Sells, the nation’s fastest-growing presale renovation company.