Starting your own business is exhilarating. But it's also risky, time-consuming and sometimes discouraging. That's where taking over a franchise comes in. A royal road? Perhaps not. But a serious option, for sure.
When you take over a franchise, you're not alone with a blank sheet of paper. You get back tried-and-tested know-how, a team that knows the business inside out, customers who walk through the door without you having to convince them, and a well-established local reputation. What's more, the figures speak for themselves: on the whole, franchise businesses hold up better than pure-play start-ups.
But signing a check isn't enough to get things moving.
A vast market, but not without pitfalls
The market for franchises for sale today is as vast as it is diverse. Do you like pizza? fitness? Home services? There's probably a franchise for you. And for every budget: some concepts start at just a few tens of thousands of euros, while others require a much higher entry fee.
The result: seasoned profiles, young returnees, investors... the candidates are as diverse as the brands. But beware of rushing into the first business just because it's well established.
Choosing the right franchise: a subtle art
So how can you avoid disappointment? First, by choosing a sector that really speaks to you. It's rarely a good idea to work in a field that puts you off, even if it's profitable. Secondly, by taking a close look at the health of the network: some networks promise the best, but provide neither solid training nor serious support.
And, of course, don't forget to do your homework. What is the actual sales figure for the business? What is its margin? What is its development potential? The condition of the equipment? The commercial lease? Don't leave anything to chance. It's advice that sounds basic, but is sometimes forgotten when enthusiasm gets the better of you.
Finally, enlist the help of a lawyer, a chartered accountant, a specialized broker... These investments can help you avoid costly mistakes.
In a nutshell? More than just a buyback
Taking over a franchise isn't just about buying a business. It's joining a history, a community, a structuring framework. It's also a springboard for accelerating your entrepreneurial project. But, as always, caution is the mother of success.
It's better to move forward slowly but surely, than to rush headlong into something that looks attractive at first glance. Franchising is a world of opportunity. As long as you keep your feet on the ground.