Franchise expert Derek Cafferata shares 3 reasons why franchise associations are important in today’s franchising business world.

Franchise associations are there to facilitate and build a stronger, more effective business relationship between franchisor and franchisee. Any good franchise business will understand the importance of having its franchisees being a part of a franchise association and encourage membership. And any franchisee looking at buying into a franchise should look for one that has a strong relationship with a franchise association.

According to Derek Cafferata, CEO and President of franchising experts All State Franchise Finders (ASFF), there are three main benefits to aligning with a franchise association.

A Collective Voice

For a single franchisee, having any input or influence in any aspect of the franchise as a whole can be quite difficult, especially within larger national or international franchise businesses.

“This is where a franchise association comes into play,” says Derek. “A franchise association offers the ability for individual franchisees to have a collective voice, meaning they have the opportunity to hold a stronger, more influential position when dealing with the franchisor.”

A collective voice can increase the purchasing power of each franchisee member, can ensure concerns are heard and give an opportunity for opinions and suggestions to be put forward.

With a franchise association, franchisees can assist with negotiating better contract terms and ensure franchise agreements are equal and fair for all. Each franchisee has the same opportunity as every other franchisee within the company because they are a part of the collective voice of the franchise association.

Hearing feedback in such a structure way is beneficial for the franchisor as it keeps clear and open communication across the entire company and helps the franchisor understand how their franchisees are doing and how they are feeling.

Professional Development

The opportunity for professional development is another great benefit to being part of a franchise association.

“Franchisees should never feel alone or left to fend for themselves,” says Derek. “One of the best things about the franchise business model is that you are in business for yourself, but not by yourself.”

This is where the franchise association comes in. The ability to make strong industry contacts, access to quality training and development and the chance to network and hear from others about market information and the latest news and updates is what a franchise association offers.

Professional development through a franchise association benefits not only every franchisee but also the franchisor, as they can easily share information with their entire network.

Credibility

For the franchisor, membership to a franchise association shows credibility to potential franchisees and the industry in general, because a franchise must meet certain criteria to be accepted as a member of a franchise association.

For the franchisee, Derek Cafferata recommends looking at franchises that have a strong association with a credible franchise association.

“Franchise associations provide a good level of credibility for both franchisor and franchisee,” says Derek. “They increase visibility for the franchisor and offer a professional membership for the franchisee.”

ASFF Your Franchise Experts

Derek Cafferata and his team of franchise experts have the knowledge and experience to help with any franchising needs. Whether you are a potential franchisee or business owner looking for advice on how to restructure your franchise business, contact ASFF, your franchise experts on 1-800-544-2161 or visit allstateff.com today.