Franchising continues to experience modest growth, outperforming other sectors of the nation’s economy, while some franchisees express concerns.
Like many small business owners, franchisees have taken their hits during the four-year, economic downturn. But although there are many challenges looming on the horizon for franchise entrepreneurs, the overall trend for franchising is positive, according to the International Franchise Association (IFA).
In a recent survey conducted by the IFA Education Foundation, a strong majority of franchise business owners (67%) anticipate modest to significant growth in 2012, down from 76% heading into 2011.
However, IFA president and CEO Steve Caldeira says that growth projections for franchises exceed growth estimates for the rest of the economy. Industry forecasts predict 1.9% growth in establishments and 2.1% growth in jobs over the next twelve months, less than the growth levels experienced before the recession — but enough to make franchising an attractive option for new entrepreneurs. Read full article.