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Franchising is a proven method of business expansion. As franchising has grown in popularity, professional bodies have emerged within the industry. These bodies provide support and accreditation and address the complexities and challenges of franchising. They bridge the gap between franchisors and franchisees. For franchisors, joining a franchise association has a range of benefits. This article will explain franchise associations and the benefits of joining one.
What is a Franchise Association?
Franchise associations are professional bodies within the franchise industry that support franchisors and franchisees. They play a significant role in shaping the industry and upholding professional standards and ethics. The associations set standards through their codes of ethics and provide members with accreditation, education, and support, such as dispute resolution.
Franchise associations in the UK include:
- the British Franchise Association (BFA);
- the Approved Franchise Association (AFA); and
- the Quality Franchise Association (QFA).
Franchise associations first came into existence to fill a gap in franchisee support. Some franchisors were not adhering to fair or ethical standards in their professional practices. Now, franchise associations have a range of support mechanisms and work to support and educate franchisees and franchisors equally.
The Benefits of Joining a Franchise Association
The following table outlines some benefits of joining a franchise association for franchisors.
| Benefit for Franchisors | Explanation |
| Credibility | Some franchise associations provide accreditation upon becoming a franchisor member. They will closely assess your franchise and allow you to join upon gaining approval. Accreditation shows that you care to uphold professional standards and aim to be a good franchisor. Accreditation also signals to others, namely prospective franchisees, that you run a reputable franchise that adheres to industry best practices and ethical standards. Reputable suppliers may also be more likely to engage with you once you gain accreditation. |
| Advice and support | Membership gives franchisors access to advice and new research. Franchisors can also access further support in case of a franchise dispute. |
| Professional development | Franchising is a method of business expansion but is an industry of its own. Franchisors tend to operate separately from one another, focusing on their own businesses day-to-day. Franchise associations provide a space for franchisors to engage with each other. Being a member of a franchise association allows franchisors access to a network of other accredited franchisors and professionals associated with the industry. You can engage with their community, expand your network of contacts, and engage with professional training. |
Joining a franchise association can benefit both franchisors and franchisees. Membership can equip franchisees with a better understanding of the industry and provide access to other franchisee networks.
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Should I Join a Franchise Association as a Franchisor?
Beyond the benefits discussed above, joining a franchise association can help franchisors stay informed about industry developments and evolving standards. You will also be able to access many different forms of support. Your engagement with the association and the education on offer can also help you establish better relationships with franchisees.
Key Takeaways
A franchise association is a professional body that sets standards and supports those operating within the franchising industry. Joining a franchise association, such as the BFA, can benefit franchisors. You can gain access to accreditation, educational programs, and opportunities to network with other professionals in your field. The exact offerings depend on the association you opt to join.
If you are a franchisor looking to bolster your credibility, gaining accreditation is a great way to do this. Accreditation signals to others that you run a franchise that adheres to ethical standards and industry best practices, which can attract prospective franchisees to your brand. The education and professional development opportunities on offer will allow you to remain up to date with the latest industry developments and enhance your franchising knowledge.
There are costs associated with joining a franchise association, and the process of gaining accreditation is thorough and strict. However, the benefits of joining can prove invaluable to your franchise network and professional development. Franchisee membership can also be advantageous, opening the door to greater knowledge and confidence and empowering franchisees to excel.
If you need legal assistance with your franchise, LegalVision’s experienced franchise lawyers can assist as part of our LegalVision membership. For a low monthly fee, you will have unlimited access to lawyers to answer your questions and draft and review your documents. Call us today on 0808 196 8584 or visit our membership page.
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