I keep hearing that the US economy is showing signs of improvement. But, where am I hearing that? Cable news networks Some newspapers Some small business owners I'm also hearing the opposite. I'm hearing some negative economic news from; Local franchisees Sales managers Auto dealers Family friends Who should I believe? Should I believe; Millionaire news anchors Millionaire business owners Politicians (Some millionaire's there too, by the way) Or should I believe folks that; May be on the verge of losing their homes Have been out of work for 8-9 months Are politicians Do you think that I am…
Franchising
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The Franchise King Blog
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Is The US Economy Really Improving?
5 Nov 2009 | 5:54 am -
Social Media Marketing By Franchise Companies Can't Be A Part-Time Gig
4 Nov 2009 | 2:52 amIf you are an executive, or even the owner of a franchise concept, don't worry about all the buzz around social media. Don't pressure yourself into doing social media, just because a growing number of other franchisors have started getting their feet wet. Just keep doing what you're doing. I'm sure that you are totally euphoric about your current franchise marketing successes... Being the Community Promotions Director for a powerful and influential website like Small Business Trends has some perks. One of them includes spending a great deal of time actually reading… -
Canadian Franchise Attorney Calls Franchise Ownership "Renting A Business"
3 Nov 2009 | 3:38 amCanada has a thriving franchise industry, and a Canadian franchise attorney Tony Wilson points out 3 advantages of franchise ownership; Training in the business model. "They're training you to use their system; training is a huge component in franchising," Wilson says. Access to a trademark and brand advertising. "That's what franchisees should expect -- to get the benefit of the brand." Joint purchasing power. "If you're in a buying group with 16 other restaurants, you're going to get your food cheaper than if you're one restaurant buying your product by yourself," Wilson explains. -
Green Auto News; Is This Electric Automaker The Next Green Franchise?
2 Nov 2009 | 12:16 pmA Reva Reva has more all-electric vehicles on the road than any other company, but it still has a long haul before it can make the vehicles marketable for the masses. However, last month, the company won a huge and important stamp of approval when GM said it would use Reva’s technology in the electric version of its Chevrolet Spark, a small car whose conventional petrol version GM sells here already. The electric version of the Spark is expected to go on sale in India by the end of next year, according to GM officials. Reva’s technology is “second to none”, said Karl Slym, president… -
CIT Bankruptcy Could Affect Franchise And Small Business Lending
2 Nov 2009 | 7:32 amSmall business loans have been fairly difficult to come by, to say the least. CIT, a huge small business lender, although not the only game in town, is in trouble, but has done a nice volume of loans for the franchise and small business start-up community in years past. So now what?Now, it's time to start seriously thinking of creative financing arrangements. Although controversial, maybe tapping into your 401K's for some of your start-up funds, isn't a bad idea. I have noticed that most of the negative comments concerning the 401K rollover plan ideas come from CPA's. it's very predictable;A…
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The Franchise Blog 4 Vets
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Einstein's Bagels Comes To San Antonio
2 Nov 2009 | 10:31 amCharles Loflin, a local San Antonio entrepreneur with ownership in more than 28 eateries, celebrates the grand opening of his Einstein Bros. Bagels franchise location at 12730 IH-10 West in San Antonio, Texas. It is the brand's first franchise location... -
Veteran Takes 7-Eleven Up On It's Veteran Franchise Discount Offer
26 Oct 2009 | 3:21 amRandy Harrell and his wife, Kristi, are slated to take over as franchisee in early November at the 7-Eleven store on Dunlawton Avenue in Port Orange, Fla for an undisclosed price. The Air Force Veteran was attracted to the offer... -
6 Veterans To Compete For A Free Franchise
21 Oct 2009 | 3:26 amIt's down to six. Six of our best will be competing to win a franchise business package from Atlanta's Maid Brigade Franchise Corp... Continue -
VetFran Offers Great Incentives For Military Veterans
15 Oct 2009 | 2:46 amThe VetFran program has been around for many years now. Discounts on the up-front franchise fee are a great way to lower one's start-up costs. This blogger has helped two fine military veterans enter the franchise world with VetFran discounts.... -
Military Veterans; Maybe You Should Start An Online Learning Company
9 Oct 2009 | 10:37 amOnline learning. Smart Idea. Not all of you have the financial resources to start a franchise. I'd like to share an alternative. You can still become a small business owner... Is there something that you are an expert at? Maybe...
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DailyFranchiseNews.com
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Happy Holidays…Grab a Gift Card!
5 Nov 2009 | 11:12 amInstead of braving the crowds the week before, snatch up that perfect holiday gift for yourself early courtesy of First Watch: According to Chain Leader, all 80 First Watch daytime cafe locations will offer patrons $20 in Bonus Bucks for every $100 gift card purchase from November 16th through December 24th. "Everyone likes to treat themselves and that can be difficult around the holidays. By receiving an extra $20 to First Watch, customers can enjoy coming to our restaurants without spending any more money,” said Chris Tomasso, First Watch’s chief marketing officer. “The gift card… -
The Triangle Ups its Value
5 Nov 2009 | 8:28 amThough many lodging chains have limited or ceased expansion in the past year, Value Place is taking the exact opposite approach. The News & Observer reported the Wichita-based chain is calling for 500 properties to be built over the next five years – six of which will be in the Triangle area but over the course of 10 years. The first area Value Place will open in Apex in January. That the plans of the Wichita, Kan.-based company have not been scaled back because of the recession speaks to Value Place's no-frills business model. For about $200 a week, plus a $100 damage deposit,… -
We Have a Winner!
5 Nov 2009 | 7:15 amWe previously mentioned Cousins Subs’ Facebook Halloween Costume Contest, where individuals could submit photos of themselves in costume in hopes of winning $500 and free subs for a year. Well, a winner has been announced! The Baraboo News Republic reported Baraboo resident Toby Thums and his fiancee, Denise Siedschlag, walked away with the grand prize in the nationwide contest for their costumes as a headless bride and groom. Toby and Denise had a picture snapped of their gruesome getups at a friend’s private Halloween party in Baraboo and then submitted the image through the social… -
Dry Cleaning Station Gets Martinized
4 Nov 2009 | 12:13 pmMartinizing has been the gold standard in dry cleaning since its inception in 1949 and is expanding its presence further with the recent acquisition of Minneapolis-based Dry Cleaning Station. American Drycleaner reported that according to Jerry Laesser, Martinizing’s vice president of marketing and development, it’s anticipated that a combination of 10 Dry Cleaning Station full-service plants will initially convert to the Martinizing brand in four markets, including Denver; Southern California; Tulsa, Okla.; and Minneapolis, with other markets to follow. Martinizing will expand its brand… -
Innovation in Franchising
2 Nov 2009 | 12:20 pmDid you know that McDonald’s Big Mac and Filet-O-Fish wouldn’t exist today if it weren’t for some creative franchisees? AllBusiness.com did and recently set out to find if franchising and innovation go together like two all beef patties, special sauce, lettuce, cheese, pickles, onions and a sesame seed bun. “Some franchisees, and some franchise systems, are more effective when franchisees can innovate,” says John Hayes, a franchise consultant, former franchisee and franchisor, and author of several franchise-related books. “More often, however, when franchisees have to search for…
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Rush on Business
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Shareholder Agreement Gotcha Under Iowa Business Law?
2 Nov 2009 | 4:00 amThroughout this blog you will see posts that recommend business people enter into a shareholder agreement when they start a corporation with multiple shareholders. But did you know that unless your shareholder agreement states otherwise, your shareholder agreement may only be valid for 10 years pursuant to Iowa corporate law? Chapter 490.732 of the Iowa Code seems to indicate exactly that (although I have never seen it applied in a case yet). I think this is something that maybe even some of the most experienced corporate attorneys may not realize. So don't be surprised. You should… -
What Employers Need to Know About H1N1
23 Oct 2009 | 5:00 amIn a recent interview I was asked about what employers need to know about the H1N1 virus as a follow up to my recent post on how employers need to be prepared for H1N1. I didn't have a lot of time to respond as the question came towards the end of the program and we ran out of time. As a follow up, I thought I would mention that Connecticut employment lawyer, Daniel Schwartz, has a great post on H1N1 and the workplace. Daniel lists some available resources and has several recommendations for employers to get ready for the flu season: Update (or create) a Business Continuity Policy with… -
Insight on Business Interview
22 Oct 2009 | 5:00 amI had the pleasure of sitting down for an interview with Michael Libbie yesterday. We talked blogging, discrimination cases, franchising and other issues. If you didn't catch it live you can watch the podcast here. (The interview begins at about the 30 minute mark). If you haven't heard about Des Moines Local Live, you should check it out. It's an Internet radio station with 50 local radio hosts talking everything from business to sports. A real testament to Des Moines' Internet-blogging presence. -
How to Catch the Business Investor's Eye
19 Oct 2009 | 7:25 pmNeed capital for your business? Looking for an investor? If so, you should take the opportunity to attend a seminar from the Business Innovation Zone of Central Iowa (BIZ) on how to get your business into shape and attract an investor's eye. Adam Claypool of DeWaay Investment Banking is the speaker. I have worked with Adam on several occasions so I know this will be a worthwhile opportunity to listen to one of central Iowa's more prominent investment bankers. The presentation is this Wednesday, October 21st at the Des Moines Partnership offices, 700 Locust Street, Suite 100, Des Moines, Iowa. -
Negotiating Franchise Agreements
9 Oct 2009 | 5:00 amFranchise attorney Charles Internicola busts the myth that franchise agreements are non-negotiable in his post, Myth: Is it Illegal for a Franchisor to Negotiate and Modify the Terms of its Franchise Agreement. This is one of the best posts on the subject that I have seen. In addition to the fact that you should take your right to negotiate the franchise agreement seriously, I would encourage you to stay on the alert for other common red flags from franchisors (I have written about these previously but it bears repeating): You don't need a lawyer to review the agreement. I would prefer…
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BLUEMAUMAU.ORG
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Australian Government Fails Franchising
5 Nov 2009 | 12:34 pmCANBERRA, Australia - Small Business Minister Craig Emerson has tabled his response to the Australian Franchising inquiry. His response lacks leadership on this issue and plays into the hands of rogue franchisors by allowing them to continue to get away with dishonest and unethical behaviour that is just not accepted in other areas of business. -
My Signature, My Decision, My Result
3 Nov 2009 | 11:00 amFranchisees choose to sign contracts but does that leave them entirely at fault and entirely responsible for the cost? I would suggest that often it does. -
Chain Restaurant Earnings Trends: Whats Working Now?
2 Nov 2009 | 10:50 amSome chain restaurants are gaining sales traction. So far in quarter three of the 2009 earnings season, most chain restaurants have delivered “good” earnings results: generally negative sales comp results, favorable commodity and other cost reductions and as a result meeting EPS expectations. -
Franchise Fairness Myths and Realities
31 Oct 2009 | 5:37 amWhat is franchise fairness? According to failed franchisees and franchisees locked (so they think) into abusive franchise relationships, franchise fairness is that state of affairs in which they are not required to observe strict compliance with the very one sided contracts they signed. -
Want Dip With Your New Flat Screen TV?
29 Oct 2009 | 12:54 amWhen Amazon.com announced it will be offering same day delivery, aka “Local Express Delivery”, in seven major US cities I was asked the same question by several reporters. The question was a variant of, “What are the implications of this announcement?”
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THE BIZOP NEWS
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MoneyGram Scam and Gate Keeper Liability
3 Nov 2009 | 9:42 amMoneyGram International, Inc., the second-largest money transfer service in the United States, will pay $18 million in consumer redress to settle FTC charges that the company allowed its money transfer system to be used by fraudulent telemarketers to bilk U.S. consumers out of tens of millions of dollars. MoneyGram also will be required to implement a comprehensive anti-fraud and agent-monitoring program. The FTC charged that between 2004 and 2008, MoneyGram agents helped fraudulent telemarketers and other con artists who tricked U.S. consumers into wiring more than $84 million within the… -
Avoid Responsibility and Live Better
2 Nov 2009 | 5:34 am"When you can blame someone else (or the gods of spite, chance and bad luck) it's emotionally safer than it is to acknowledge you made a lousy choice.If the weather is freakishly bad on your vacation, you can embrace pity from your friends, and spend your angst cursing the storms.On the other hand, if you book a trip in the middle of hurricane season, you've got no one to blame but yourself." Seth Godin on ResponsibilityAcknowledging that you made a mistake challenges your sense of identity. I could not have bought this ridiculous business opportunity because I am not a foolish… -
The Franchise Wars: Apple v Windows
22 Oct 2009 | 9:03 amImage via WikipediaIn the franchise war between Apple and Windows, I am a Mac fan. I wasn't always a Mac guy, I used a PC from the earlier 1980's up until 1997. I still have the second Mac I ever bought, a Power Mac 7300. It runs some games, and old teaching programs for our small children. Mostly, however, they use a very old G3 Beige Tower for games and teaching programs. Don't get the wrong idea, I do work on PC's and have a couple of them lying around, running the latest version of XP. But the machines are over 8 years olds, and I was looking to replace them, probably with the latest… -
Be Your Own Boss
19 Oct 2009 | 10:17 pmI had posted this before, but I wanted to included some testimony from Jim Vitale, the swarthy looking con criminal in this FTC video. Pay close attention to Vitale's description of method, because it is relevant to more than simply buying business opportunities. Compare the pithiness of Vitale's advice: Fast no's and slow, slow yeses, to the FTC's advice about getting the disclosure document. From Vitale's testimony to the FTC My name is Jim Vitale. I was involved in sales of business opportunities for seven years. I participated in a lot of illegal and fraudulent activities that surround… -
BlogMasterMind, Testimonials and Seller Assisted Marketing Plans
19 Oct 2009 | 2:43 pmImage via WikipediaThis is a post designed to show the interactions between a) an internet marketing program, b) the FTC new rule on testimonials, and c) a particular State business opportunity rule, in this case, the California "Seller Assisted Marketing Plans" Act.Paul Schlegel, who writes a very useful blog, called WorkatHomeTruth, has wondered why nobody by me, apparently, is pointing out to affiliate marketers their legal liabilities under the US State's business opportunities acts.Most of the affiliate marketers have also misunderstood the FTC's new rule on testimonials and the…
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Franchise-chat Resource Articles
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Strategies to Compete in a Challenging Environment
6 Nov 2009 | 1:00 pmWhat are the big name franchises doing to stay in front in the current environment? Smart companies operating in competitive markets are working very hard to improve efficiency, test high-yielding new initiatives, and differentiate themselves from competitors. -
Let's Be Honest About Franchising
31 Oct 2009 | 7:00 pmIn this article, Jerry Wilkerson provides an outlook for franchising in 2010 and explores whether the industry can help lead the U.S. out of the recession. -
The New Italian Franchise Law
23 Oct 2009 | 1:54 pmPhilp F. Zeidman, Piper Rudnick LLP Senior Partner, profiles the new Italian law regulating the sale of franchises, and the conduct of franchisors and franchisees. -
Opportunities for Restaurant Franchising in China
16 Oct 2009 | 6:37 pmChina: While many international franchisors are lured by 1.3 billion and a growing middle class, size alone doesn't dictate opportunity. Dr Ilan Alon explores the marketing mix and need for adaptation in the restaurant sector. -
The Balancing Act: Time Management Strategies for Business and Family
9 Oct 2009 | 2:19 pmSuccess at work doesn't necessarily mean success at home. Pamela Gold shows how strategies for family are as important as strategies for business, and suggests ideas for achieving balance.
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Franchise News Wire by Franchising.com
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Gap Brings Stella Mccartney For Gapkids Holiday 2009 Collection T0 Los Angeles's Robertson Boulevard
6 Nov 2009 | 8:40 amThis holiday seasonGap is bringing the new babyGap and GapKids Holiday collection designed by Stella McCartney to Los Angeles's fashion-savvy kids with a pop-up store on the famed Robertson Boulevard. The exclusive Stella McCartney for GapKids Pop-Up... -
Second Blenz In Vernon: First Drive-Thru In The Chain
6 Nov 2009 | 8:15 amSituated in northern Vernon in the centre of a rapidly developing area, this Blenz is bordered by the highway, mountains, a new casino, and Vernon's only Real Canadian Superstore right across the street. With most of the neighbourhood's population... -
Nurse Next Door Looks To Provide Safer Living For Local Seniors During National Fall Prevention Week 2009
6 Nov 2009 | 8:10 amWith the majority of accidental deaths among seniors aged 75 and older the result of falls, fall prevention has become an increasingly important issue in Canada. With this knowledge, Nurse Next Door is giving back to the communities it serves through... -
Five Star Painting Expands Into Boston, Massachusetts With A New Franchisee
6 Nov 2009 | 8:05 amFive Star Painting, the world's fastest-growing painting franchise company is happy to announce new members to their team, Steven Oransky and Carmelina Procaccini, who recently purchased a new franchise in Boston, MA. Steve and Carmelina are excited... -
ActionCOACH South Africa Team Continues It's Growth Path
6 Nov 2009 | 8:00 amSince it's launch in South Africa in June 2007, ActionCOACH - The World's Number One Business Coaching Firm has now grown to a team of 15 experienced Coaches operating primarily in Gauteng, Kwa - Zulu Natal and in the Western Cape.
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Franchise Talk
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Potbelly Sandwiches Looking To Open In Louisville
6 Nov 2009 | 9:26 amLouisville Courier-Journal: Chicago-based Potbelly Sandwich Works is looking for franchisees to open stores in the Louisville area. The chain, which has more than 200 corporate-owned locations, specializes in warm sandwiches and milkshakes. Stores also feature live local music. “Qualified, married couples and life partner teams who are sincere about integrating Potbelly into the fabric of Louisville’s communities are ideal franchisee candidates,” the company said in a prepared statement, adding that each store would employ about 25. Related posts:Nordsee To Open First Mideast Outlet… -
Sport Clips Franchise Coming To Palestine
6 Nov 2009 | 9:18 amPalestine Herald Press: Sport Clips, the nation’s leading men’s and boys’ hair-care franchise, will soon open a store in Palestine. The store, to be located at 419 Old Elkhart Rd. (next to Wal-Mart Supercenter), will be the newest addition to the franchisee’s three existing stores in the Tyler area. “Everyone needs a haircut, and we’ve been true to our mission of creating a championship haircut experience for men and boys in an exciting sports environment. That’s why the Sport Clips concept continues to grow here in East Texas and across the country,” said Brad Anderson, Sport… -
Small Brands, Big Canvas
6 Nov 2009 | 9:00 amFibre2fashion.com: Driving a revival in the country’s apparel business after a tough year is a slew of regional brands mushrooming in smaller cities and towns across the country that are now attracting the attention of private equity players. Brands such as Liverpool Retail India’s Barcelona, Vir Retail’s John Hill and Nahar Group’s Cotton County that sell outfits at less than one-third the price of national brands are opening stores faster than the cautious national brands. These brands operate in the Rs.150-600 price band, working on low margins and fast stock… -
Growth Like Mushrooms
6 Nov 2009 | 8:57 amFinancial Mail: Fruit & Veg City is the latest retailer to partner with a fuel business to run a garage at its forecourt shops. The company has struck an alliance with US oil major Chevron, which was looking to exit the convenience retail business. “Chevron wanted to concentrate on fuel,” says Fruit & Veg City MD Brian Coppin. “And it wanted a retail partner who would grow its convenience channel for it.” Chevron’s 188 Star Mart shops will be rebranded Freshstop. The product range – which was really just “cokes, smokes and chips”, says… -
Fiesta Auto Insurance Navigates The Streets Of Franchising And Finds Success
6 Nov 2009 | 6:20 amdBusinessNews Los Angeles: Fiesta Auto Insurance has the policy entrepreneurs need to insure their financial future: a dynamic franchise investment with multiple revenue streams that serve the needs of millions of consumers in America. The nation’s only insurance and tax preparation franchise is driving aggressive growth nationwide as it combines two highly attractive business models under one roof. Quadrupling its presence to more than 80 units sold during the past 10 months, Fiesta Auto Insurance is turning heads in the franchise investment community amid a down economy. “We are opening…
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First Prize Franchise.com
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Factoring Offers Chance for Struggling Businesses to Breathe
2 Nov 2009 | 11:11 amIn these tough economic times, cash flow has taken a hit for even the most successful businesses. One client’s inability to pay on time has the potential to sink a number of businesses on down the line. But even if companies aren’t struggling, factoring can launch a powerful ability to grow the business, or help start-ups survive the outlay of cash until revenues start coming in. So what is factoring, anyway? It’s a process by which a company sells its accounts receivables to receive the cash instantly. This can be critical when dealing with large companies or government municipalities… -
D’lish
30 Oct 2009 | 11:28 amD’lish is a one-of-a-kind food establishment built to make the most of high traffic areas in malls and other venues. With its unique menu, including hand-made sodas and lemonades, funnel cakes, shaved ice, candies and popcorn, D’lish offers a great low-cost business venture that boasts a rapid return on investment. A low start-up cost and low overhead, plus the fact that products appeal to all age groups makes D’lish an attractive venture. But because its products require minimal prep work, no restaurant experience is needed. Background Year Established: 2009 Year First… -
Factoring Helps Businesses Manage Cash Flow
21 Oct 2009 | 2:38 pmIn these tough economic times, cash flow has taken a hit for even the most successful businesses. One client’s inability to pay on time has the potential to sink a number of businesses on down the line. But even if companies aren’t struggling, factoring can launch a powerful ability to grow the business, or help start-ups survive the outlay of cash until revenues start coming in. So what is factoring, anyway? It’s a process by which a company sells its accounts receivables to receive the cash instantly. This can be critical when dealing with large companies or government municipalities… -
Planet Smoothie
19 Oct 2009 | 7:48 amPlanet Smoothie’s ambition is greater than simply opening up franchises or being the biggest smoothie brand in the category, our quest is to change the way the Planet Eats! We have been a part of the category since 1995. No, we weren’t first. Others have been doing it longer, but the category has lacked real innovation from early pioneers and a real commitment to going beyond simply being healthier than ice creameries, fast food shakes or knock-off smoothies from nom-smoothie companies. We believe there should be a real commitment towards more natural sweeteners, reduced sugars,… -
Shane’s Rib Shack
19 Oct 2009 | 7:34 amBorn in rural McDonough, Georgia, Shane’s Rib Shack brings a true backyard atmosphere and darn-good BBQ to cities and town throughout the country. Every Shane’s Rib Shack is run the same way-as a family, for families or anyone else hungry for the taste of home-grown BBQ. With mouthwatering flavors and a menu of BBQ-themed choices, Shane’s Rib Shack is cooking-up a name for itself all across the country. Shane’s Rib Shack features all of the favorites: baby back ribs, pork sandwiches, BBQ chicken, chicken tenders, southern sides and desserts, plus a whole lot more. The…
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b5media: Franchise Pick
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Consumer Spending Fell in September
31 Oct 2009 | 12:29 amA new report issued by the Commerce Department has shown that average consumer spending fell in September for the first time in five months, a development that has been attributed to the ending of the Cash for Clunkers automotive rebate program. This drop in consumer spending matching analyst estimates and follows a 1.4 percent jump in the previous month. Image: istockphoto Consumer confidence has taken a hit in recent months because of stagnant wages and growing unemployment, two factors that have raised worries that consumers will cut back spending in the coming months. Analysts also worry… -
Consumer Electronics Makers Recovering
30 Oct 2009 | 8:29 pmThe consumer electronics industry has been hit especially hard by the recession and slow consumer spending, as electronics are among the first things that many families cut back on when money is tight. However, several consumer electronics companies, including Sony and Panasonic, have posted results that may signal some recovery in the market. Image: Flickr Sony just posted its fourth-consecutive quarterly loss on Friday, a fact that is troublesome on its own. However, the brighter outlook on the global economy and cost-cutting measures have allowed Sony to trim its loss forecast for the year… -
Chevron 3Q Profit Down 51 Percent
30 Oct 2009 | 8:14 amThough production is up, Chevron, the nation’s second largest oil and gas producer, posted overall profits down 51 percent to $3.83 billion, or $1.92 per share, in comparison with the same three-month period last year. The company did increase oil production by 11 percent. The average sale price was $62 per barrel — definitely better than last quarter but still far below the $103 per barrel during the same period in 2008. Image: Flickr “We continued to experience weak margins on the sale of gasoline and other refined products,” said Chairman and CEO Dave OReilly. -
PC Backup Startup Names New CEO
28 Oct 2009 | 8:55 pmOne of the hottest industries in the online world is PC backups. There are a number of major players in this industry, which wants to capitalize on the market that is filled with consumers who want to backup their important data from their PC quickly, easily and without paying a fortune. Rebit.com is one player in the PC backup market. Recently, this startup named Paul Guerin as its CEO. Guerin has worked for a number of major corporations including Lotus, IBM and GTSI. He has also worked for a few startups including Jabber, Torrent Systems and Digital Archaeology. Said Guerin, who steps into… -
Goodbye From Small Business
28 Oct 2009 | 1:26 pmBizzia Small Business will be going away and merging with some of the content at EveryJoe starting tomorrow, so I wanted to bid you all a fond farewell since I will not be writing here any more. You can still find me several other places online, give me a shout out on Twitter sometime I’m @Linetteg there. I’d love to hear from you. You can also stop by and visit me at one of my other blogs. Mostly I blog about parties and entertaining, with a little kid’s stuff thrown in for fun. So, if you like parties or kids (and who doesn’t like kids!) stop by The Kid’s…
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Little Jimmy's Italian Ice
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Special Olympics Airplane Pull
17 Oct 2009 | 9:46 pmContinental Airlines and the Port Authority of NJ held a Special Olympics Plane Pull last month. A good day was had by all with fun for the entire family with all proceeds going to the New Jersey Special Olympics. Little Jimmy’s Italian Ice donated some Italian Ice pushcarts and Italian ice to this fun Family Day at Newark Liberty Airport. Teams of 20 competed to pull a Boeing 737 weighing over 93,000 lbs. on the Continental Airlines tarmac at Newark Airport! Tags: continental airlines, Italian ice, Italian ice pushcart, new jersey, newark airport, special olympics Related posts Italian… -
Happy Halloween
6 Oct 2009 | 8:16 amMonster Mash Video starring Little Jimmy, Dennis, Tom, Harry and Anthony Happy Halloween! Try JibJab Sendables® eCards today! Tags: funny video, halloween, monster mash Related posts Happy Halloween (0) Blooper Video (4) -
Virginia’s Richmond Times-Dispatch
14 Sep 2009 | 7:50 pmClick here to read full story: Enjoying some last-minute fun before school starts. Excerpt: “At the South of the James Market at Forest Hill Park, Mark Abernathy from Little Jimmy’s Italian Ice of Carytown served the masses. It was the busiest day all season, and by noon, Abernathy had already sold more than 125 ices. Sydnee Voigt, who is visiting her grandchildren from Brazil, was among his customers. Pina colada and watermelon ices went to the kids. “We’re just going to spend Labor Day together as a family,” Voigt said. As for Abernathy, his plan after work:… -
Italian Ice Road Trip
10 Sep 2009 | 7:53 amWhen Rick and his wife sold all of their Little Jimmy’s Italian Ices at their Maryland events this August, they took it to the road and drove to our offices in Elizabeth, NJ. Since we are open 7 days a week in the summer, we had them resupplied in no time and back on the road within an hour to get them back in business. Tags: Italian ice, little jimmys, maryland, road trip Related posts Ypsilanti Classroom Invite (1) Your Account (0) Who, Where, What and How (0) Virginia’s Richmond Times-Dispatch (0) Video: Swamp Buggy Race (0) -
Cape Cod Movie
1 Sep 2009 | 10:00 am“Ironsides” finished shooting in Cape Cod last month. I put together a slide show of some actual shooting stills from this new independent feature film which has our products in the film. The movie is directed by Joel Greenberg (based on his novel) and is slated for release early 2010. Tags: cape cod, eastham, independent movie, ironsides, massachusetts, truro, wellfleet Related posts Cameras are rolling (1)
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Franchise Blog
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The IFA Turns 50
5 Nov 2009 | 5:40 amWe’d like to take a moment to congratulate the IFA which turns 50 years old this year. Those people who started the International Franchise Association a half a century ago would hardly recognize today’s business landscape, but still their organization continues to provide advocacy and guidance to franchised businesses around the country. What began when Dunkin’ Donuts founder Bill Rosenberg brandished a 100 dollar bill from his wallet at a franchisor convention in Chicago back in 1959 is now a hugely mobile and influential organization, as the recent successful of lobbying of President… -
Successful international franchisors explain how to become a Top 100 Global Franchise
4 Nov 2009 | 6:24 amIt is easier than ever to develop your franchise into a top global business, thanks to Franchise Direct. The Atlanta-based, world-leading franchise portal recently compiled its rankings of the Top 100 Global Franchises. After a number of insightful follow-up interviews with ranked franchisors, Franchise Direct can now shed some light on what takes to grow a business into a top global franchise. As recent reporting in the Wall Street Journal shows, international development is now a profitable course for many franchises seeking new markets, as economies around the world have been somewhat… -
Small Business Recovery Plan is Passed in the House
3 Nov 2009 | 5:49 amThe House of Representatives passed the Small Business Financing and Investment Act – or the small business recovery plan - by an overwhelming majority of 389 yes votes to 32 no votes last night. This is big news across the news wires today. This legislation will increase the amount of money the SBA can lend by $44billion. It also increases the guarantee rate on SBA-backed loans from 75% to 90%. “This bill is about choices. It’s about better options for the small businesses that didn’t get a bailout,” said Nydia M. Velázquez, the chairman of the House Small Business Committee. -
The State of the Small-Business Reform
2 Nov 2009 | 5:45 amSo, about 10 days later, exactly what effect has President Obama’s statements on the small business sector had on stabilizing confidence among entrepreneurs? The answer seems to be mixed. If you’ve been following developments over on the You’re The Boss blog run by the New York Times, you’ll know that success in passing the new small business laws are not guaranteed. Initially, it seemed that the President might have to struggle to get his plan through the House and Senate after disquiet from members of both parties. Now much of the debate has turned to the perspective of Rep. Sam… -
Bringing Green Businesses into the Mainstream
29 Oct 2009 | 6:37 amThe greening of the American economy is underway. Up and down the country, we are seeing the gradual embrace of environmentally-friendly products and materials. What green entrepreneurs are waiting for is the moment when green consumerism reaches the mainstream. At the moment, many are hard at work trying to explode the myth that green products are simply a niche. “The real question is ‘How does green equal better?’” says Joel Makower, executive editor of GreenBiz.com and author of Strategies for the Green Economy told Entrepreneur magazine recently. “That is,…
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franchisEssentials
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“Franchise Today” on BlogTalkRadio – Podcasts Now Available On-Demand
5 Nov 2009 | 6:13 pmJoel Libava, aka The Franchise King, and I, continue to generate excitement each week on what has been dubbed, “The Bagel and Pasta Franchise Hour.” Plans to officially rename the show have been finalized, and both Joel and I are proud to announce the new name, Franchise Today. As most franchise professionals are aware, Joel and [...] -
Effectively Using Linkedin
3 Nov 2009 | 11:04 pmAs social media continues to gain steam and obviously is not going away, more and more people are looking to participate. Unfortunately, many are intimidated and quickly give up. I routinely work with individuals, in both personal and business settings, explore and understand social media and its benefits. I have found simplicity is key in [...] -
Franchise Sales: A Tale of Two Theories
2 Nov 2009 | 6:51 pmBack in April, there was a discussion in the Franchise Executives group on LinkedIn with the posted question, “Who is using outside franchise sales groups [brokers]?” The question was posted by Mark Johnson, COO at Rocksolid Granit USA. Mark went on to state as part of his post, “We have been fortunate to be able [...] -
Top 15 Franchise Failures as Reported by the SBA
1 Nov 2009 | 9:12 pmThe recession has hit franchise owners particularly hard, with the Small Business Administration (SBA) reporting record loan default rates for 2008-2009. According to the SBA, individuals who took on SBA loans to finance a franchise had a 43% higher failure rate than in 2007. In total, those franchise losses cost the SBA $93.3 million last [...] -
The 5th Annual Franchisee Satisfaction Awards
1 Nov 2009 | 7:39 pmThe Franchisee Satisfaction Awards sponsored by Franchise Business Review are the industry’s most prestigious awards, honoring excellence in franchising. Each year, Franchise Business Review conducts thousands of independent surveys of franchisees across the industry. The Franchisee Satisfaction Awards recognize the leading franchise companies with the highest levels of overall satisfaction among their franchise operators. Franchise Business [...]
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Franchise Note
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Franchising Podcasts: Learn What the Experts Have Got to Say About Franchise Ownership
4 Nov 2009 | 8:16 pmDo you want to receive free franchising advice from top franchising experts but too tired to read any franchising articles? Try listening to live podcasts. Franchise podcastsThe Internet offers wealth of knowledge if you want to learn as much as you can about franchising. You only need to look for the online resources. One of the resources I would like to recommend is franchising podcasts. What is podcast anyway? Podcasts are series of digital media files (most commonly audio) that can be shared and listened to, either live or recorded. Podcasts are commonly come into life in the of online… -
Franchise Unit Location: Buy or Lease?
1 Nov 2009 | 10:22 pmHere is the question that your answer can make or break your entrepreneurial career: To buy or to lease business premise. Leased propertyMany people misunderstood McDonald’s business model. Many thought that McDonald’s is successful because it makes the best burgers. Not entirely true (to me, Burger King’s burgers are the best of all – LOL. McDonald’s? Theirs are simply… um… bland.) Many people can claim that they make better burgers than McDonald’s. They can be successful with their superior burger recipes. Unfortunately, most of them are… -
Buying a Hobby-based Franchise: Is Your Hobby a Strong Factor in Deciding to Buy a Franchise?
31 Oct 2009 | 9:57 amMany people deciding to buy a franchise because it is closely related to their hobbies. My opinion: Hobby-based franchises are great, but let your hobby be your hobby. Science franchiseI have talked with some franchisees in the past who are buying a franchise because it is their hobbies-turned-into-businesses. One of their most common comments is: Let your hobby be your hobby. To clarify: Not that hobby-based businesses (in this case, franchises) are bad. In fact, for the right people, hobby-based franchises can be extremely successful, considering the nature of hobby/entertainment community… -
Buying a Franchise: Do Your Due Diligence
27 Oct 2009 | 11:43 pmDue diligence is the keyword to ensure that everything you have planned in buying a franchise will not go in vain. Proper franchise opportunity analysis can only do you good. Franchise due diligenceDue diligence is resource-intensive. Doing it requires you to put on your business analyst hat, as well as your skepticism hat. Unfortunately, choosing NOT to do the business due diligence will bring you problems and perils later on. A price to pay for not doing business due diligence: I lost my franchise units You don’t need to prove anything, as I have already proved that not doing my due… -
Top 10 Franchise Company Website Designs
26 Oct 2009 | 8:07 amToday, web presence is more important than ever – Franchises know this fact, too. Here is our very own 10 best franchise company websites, design-wise. Sonic Drive InFranchise companies know that if they want to reach out more to customers and franchisee candidates, they need to go online. They need to transmit the right message to the site visitors so that their online marketing campaigns will not go in vain. I have visited franchise companies website a lot, and to tell you the truth, many of them are sub-par and poorly design. Fortunately, most top franchises, especially global…
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brandEXPANSION Hot Press
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Dlish Offers Tasty Franchise Opportunity
2 Nov 2009 | 11:05 amD’lish is a tasty treat, and not just for the tastebuds. This hot new franchise opportunity is serving up a delectable business venture for someone who wants to seize an opportunity without taking the major risks and cost involved in launching a food franchise. D’lish opened its first store last week, in the Fashion Place mall, in Murray, Utah. It is the first of nine stores expected to open in the next eight months. With locations already secured, however, these nine are just the beginning. But there are more than 47,000 malls in the United States. While a mall kiosk delivers the kind of… -
Auto Franchises Make Sense for Former Car Dealers
23 Oct 2009 | 8:08 amThe shaking in the U.S. auto industry may have caused earthquakes from the manufacturers down to the suppliers. But there’s one aspect of autos that is actually thriving these days – auto franchises. Consider the reasons why: * The downward economy has put the brakes on new car sales (except during a stunt like Cash for Clunkers, which saw a brief upswing). According to the Wall Street Journal, car sales are down every month in 2009 compared to 2008, except for during the Cash for Clunkers period. In all, car sales are down more than 25 percent in 2009 – and 2008 wasn’t that great of… -
Struggling Businesses Get Relief With Factoring
21 Oct 2009 | 2:43 pmIn these tough economic times, cash flow has taken a hit for even the most successful businesses. One client’s inability to pay on time has the potential to sink a number of businesses on down the line. But even if companies aren’t struggling, factoring can launch a powerful ability to grow the business, or help start-ups survive the outlay of cash until revenues start coming in. So what is factoring, anyway? It’s a process by which a company sells its accounts receivables to receive the cash instantly. This can be critical when dealing with large companies or government municipalities… -
5 Reasons Franchises Are Better than Stand-Alone Businesses
19 Oct 2009 | 11:44 amWhen planning new ventures, you need to decide whether this new business should be a franchise or not. Well, major entrepreneurs have analysed the franchise opportunity and have recognised the following excellent characteristics of any franchise opportunity: 1.Firstly, with a franchise, a lot of the headaches have been worked out for you. This includes the menu, kitchen, equipment, the approach, employee attire, design and layout as well as how the franchise business is run. All you have to do is run the franchise and make sure things run smoothly in order for it to succeed. According to the… -
Franchising Explained: Business Methods Lead to Greater Success
28 Sep 2009 | 7:43 amThe franchising industry has gotten a lot of notice of late from people who are using the tough economic times to re-evaluate their futures. Perhaps you were laid off from a company where you’d worked for decades. Loyalty to employees is no longer a strong suit in corporate America. Perhaps you were determined to take your career into your own hands and not be at the whim of corporate dictates. It’s no wonder franchising is getting a second look by many during these tough times. It offers a more stable business model and a greater chance for success. But lets step back to the very…
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Comfort Keepers Franchise Development
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Becoming a Successful Franchisee: Making the Most of your Parent Company’s Resources
21 Oct 2009 | 12:44 pmIf you are a new franchisee or are considering a franchise venture, you should plan to take advantage of the resources that your parent company offers. Many people don’t know where to start when they begin a franchise venture, but if your parent company is a good one then your success should be their priority. First, take advantage of your parent company’s training programs. Comfort Keepersoffers all franchisees a comprehensive training course so that they can become familiar with the business philosophy and most effective business practices. Find out what your potential franchisor has in… -
9 Ways to Make the Most of your Business Day
14 Oct 2009 | 6:50 amDo you sometimes find that you’ve spent hours of your business day working hard yet seemingly accomplishing nothing? It may be that you need to restructure how you spend your work day hours. Here are some tips for getting the most out of your time. E-mail on a schedule. Resist the temptation to check your e-mail incessantly. Instead, plan to check 3 or 4 times a day. Set aside a small chunk of time when you check to respond to urgent e-mails. Take a break every hour. If you stare at your screen too long, you’ll start to get drowsy and work slower. Plan to get up and walk around the office… -
How to Hire (and Keep) Great Employees
25 Sep 2009 | 1:27 pmIf you’re in the process or starting a new business or entrepreneurship venture, you are facing the daunting task of hiring employees. How do you know who to hire? How do you find the best people for your company? Here are some tips: Ask for references (and use them). References should match the most relevant job experience. Ask good interview questions. Ask questions that give you a good understanding about how the job candidate responds in certain situations – Questions like “What would you do if…” Ask questions to determine if the candidate would fit for your work environment. Do… -
5 Books Every Entrepreneur Should Own
14 Sep 2009 | 1:20 pm1. Strategic Entrepreneurship by Philip A. Wickham Written like a textbook, this book gives step by step instructions. If you’re wondering how to get started in your new franchise or entrepreneurship venture, this book can help. 2. The Goal: A Process of Ongoing Improvement by Eliyahu M. Goldratt This book is written in a fiction style and talks about operations, pinpointing problems and how to be in the mindset of constantly improving your business. 3. The 360 Degree Leader by John C. Maxwell Even though this book isn’t specific to entrepreneurship, the principles and lessons in… -
Five Questions to Ask Your Potential Franchisor
3 Sep 2009 | 9:07 amFranchise opportunities are becoming more and more plentiful. But with more opportunities comes added confusion. As a potential franchise owner you need to think through some of the most important factors in order to become business-savvy. Here are some questions that any franchisor should be able to answer. What fees or royalties are involved with the start-up and ongoing development of my franchise? What are my parameters for individualizing my business? Is there a marketing team in place to help me sell my service or product? What penalties are involved with any sort of violation of…
