Buying an agency franchise is a simple way to set up by yourself, and a popular one for entrepreneurs with no travel experience. Dave Richardson finds out who the key players are in the sector, and what they offer.
What do McDonald’s, Subway, KFC and Dunkin’ Donuts all have in common, apart from fast food? They are franchise brands, operated by independent companies who pay to represent a famous brand. Franchising covers all kinds of businesses, giving people the means to operate their own small company without big overheads. But they have to maintain high standards and keep up with training – and disputes with the franchise brand are common. Franchising is well-established in travel, especially in car rental, but in retailing it can work differently, with some companies trading under their own names but taking a package from the franchise company that includes websites, financial protection and credit card facilities.
Who offers it? See it here.
