Practical & Legal Aspects of Franchising a Business (Update)

Since 2010 an average of 35,000 new franchised locations are opened each year, with a total investment of $43 billion per year (according to market research firm Franchise Grade), and the U.S. franchise industry continues to export recognized brands throughout the world. Based on the 2016 Franchise Business Outlook Report, published by the International Franchise Association, there are 795,932 franchised locations employing 9,112,000 people in the United States. The economic output is $944 billion, and the GDP is $552 billion. Clearly, franchising is a business model that represents an integral part of the U.S. economy.

This course will provide attorneys and business owners an important knowledge base for franchising an existing business. Each year hundreds of independently owned companies launch a franchise in order to capitalize on existing success, and to achieve rapid growth. Many companies achieve success at this venture, however, there are always pitfalls to avoid. This course, taught by noted franchise attorney Harold Kestenbaum and franchise expert Ed Teixeira, will present the important business and legal considerations that should be considered before a company franchises itself.

Learning Objectives:

1. Determine the factors relevant to whether a business can be successfully franchised

2. Understand the key steps in the franchising process and approximate investment required

3. Learn about the federal and state laws that regulate the franchise industry

4. Recognize the attributes of successful franchise start-ups