Franchises are Good Investments in a Tough Economy

In an uncertain economic environment, a franchise opportunity can be a smart investment for the business-minded.

Every year, thousands of Americans invest in franchises as a gateway to business ownership, the Houston Chronicle writes. But a franchise requires a certain personality type and character traits that are not always matched with independent business ownership.

If investors are looking for a stable investment with relatively low risk, a franchise may be the best choice, the paper reports. Franchisees are encouraged to work within the already existing system - investors will not be required to try out new ideas or test innovative strategies.

Additionally, the most successful franchisees rely on the franchisor support staff and fellow franchisees for advice. A willingness to ask questions and admit when help is needed are key traits for team-building.

Franchises can be a path to financial independence and stability for many individuals. Franchising.com estimates that franchise businesses generate $2.3 trillion in sales in the U.S. each year.

Please contact Meta-Franchise Consulting at http://www.metafranchiseconsulting.com/ or metafranchiseconsulting@gmail.com to learn more about how we can help you find the best franchise that meets your requirements.

Inhibitors to Becoming a Franchisee

The following audio file discusses the concept of Franchising, as well as the normal factors that inhibit individuals from pursuing their dream of controlling their own destiny, and owning their own business. There are also discussions about:

1) Fear of Change
2) Fear of Failure
3) Fear of the Unknown
4) It's Not The Right Time
5) Effect of Naysayers and Other Firehosers
6) Financial Constraints

While surveys show that 70% of individuals would like to own a business, only a small portion of those people actually take the bold step to become an entrepreneur.

Check out the podcast, titled Inhibitors to Becoming a Franchisee

It is an interview with Dennis Schooley, founder of Schooley Mitchell Telecom Consultants. For more information about Schooley Mitchell, contact Meta-Franchise Consulting.

Pie-Eyed for zpizza

Check out this great article from the Humane Society of the United States about their new alliance with zpizza. Zpizza is a leader in the gourmet and health-conscious pizza segment. They are a fast casual chain focused on delivering a fresh and unique approach to pizza. The Humane Society of the United States has teamed up with zpizza to expand their meat-free menu options. Customers can even choose non-dairy cheese!

Contact Meta-Franchise Consulting for more information on how you can be part of this exciting brand.

Molly Maid Earns "Extreme" Recognition

The following is text from an email that Meta-Franchise Consulting received from one of our most popular Franchisors, Molly Maid.

"Blake Mullins, a producer for ABC-TV's top-rated reality series, Extreme Makeover: Home Edition, recently found himself without a post-construction cleaning crew and only a few hours before the homeowners were to arrive for the family walk through.

Blake later revealed that he and his extended family were Molly Maid customers. He knew we could get the job done, so he phoned our Molly Maid franchisees in Houston, TX, Tony and Susie Kirby, who answered the frantic call at 6:35 p.m. "We need as many maids as you can muster at 3613 Goodhope, ASAP," said Blake, in an exasperated voice. The Kirbys went into speed dial and by 8 p.m. arrived at the house with good hope: a team of maids armed with ample supplies and equipment. Then Blake issued the challenge, "You have only one hour to get this two-story, four-bedroom home ready."

"There must have been 150 people from painters, electricians, designers, to tilers electronics guys, and lighting contractors still working. It was absolute chaos," said Susie Kirby. "But when they saw us, they all began cheering. I felt the adrenaline rush through my body. Our maids experienced a similar surge of energy because we cleaned that house top to bottom and saved the day."

When it absolutely, positively has to get done, who do they call-our Molly Maid franchise owners. Mark your calendar for Sunday, September 26, 8/7c, for the Extreme Makeover: Home Edition season premiere and our Molly Maid to-the-rescue episode."

Please contact Meta-Franchise Consulting at http://www.metafranchiseconsulting.com/Maid-Service-_-Cleaning/Molly-Maid or metafranchiseconsulting@gmail.com to learn more.

Networking Tips Everyone Should Know

I think all business owners would agree that networking is key to growing a business. My friend and author Frank Agin was kind enough to send me a book called "LinkedWorking" that he co-wrote with Lewis Howes. Putting these tips into practice is sure to help Meta-Franchise Consulting grow into a successful franchise consulting business.

http://www.linkedworking.com
http://www.metafranchiseconsulting.com

Own Your Own Business, <$25k Cash, Part 3

In parts 1 and 2 of this series we covered franchises that can be started for less than $25,000 cash. In the final part of this series Meta-Franchise Consulting will introduce you to business opportunities that can be started for less than $25,000 cash. Business opportunities differ from franchises in a couple of ways. First, a business opportunity is not legally obligated to have the same documentation as a franchise, so you will not receive a Franchise Disclosure Document. Additionally, some business opportunities do not charge a royalty and others have a royalty structure different than you typically see with franchises.

Beans for Dreams: Beans for Dreams is a Fundraising Business Opportunity focused on selling in-demand products that people use on a daily basis The main focus is on fresh roasted, gourmet coffee - supported by organic teas, all natural breakfast breads and gourmet chocolate.

CreditCRM: A business-in-a-box opportunity, CreditCRM provides all of the training and systems needed for you to build a successful credit repair business. You will be able to help your clients increase their credit scores an average of 50 points in 90 days in order to get loans approved.

P.A.S.S.: The Pack and Ship Specialists offer business owners the opportunity to become part of the large pack and ship industry. Owners choose the name of their store as well as the products/services that are offered. With a variety of ways to serve their customers, P.A.S.S. owners enjoy multiple revenue streams and a large customer base.

The Buzz: The Buzz is a free weekly periodical filled with fun, humorous and sometimes useful information. It is meant to be light hearted and leave the reader in a good mood. The Buzz is placed free of charge in businesses such as restaurants, chamber of commerce, oil change facilities, hair salons etc. Places where people have a wait time and would enjoy some free entertainment. As a Buzz Trade Mark License holder, you will partner with local small businesses to help them increase business.

USA for Healthclaims: USA for Healthclaims offers the most sophisticated medical billing program that is second to none. But what good is the software if you don't have any clients? That's why they offer a unique approach to insure their Licensee's success. They will get you leads with doctors in your area that need your services!

If you would like more information about these opportunities, please contact Meta-Franchise Consulting at http://www.metafranchiseconsulting.com or metafranchiseconsulting@gmail.com. We look forward to helping you achieve your dream of business ownership.

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Own Your Own Business, <$25k Cash, Part 2

In the first part of our series on low-cost franchises, we looked at opportunities that business owners can run from home, get started for less than $25,000 cash, and can be managed either part-time or with the help of a general manager. In the second part of our series on low-cost franchises, we will examine opportunities that you can operate out of your home, require less than $25,000 cash to start, and require your full-time participation as the business owner.

AmSpirit Business Connections: AmSpirit Business Connections organizes and supports Chapters of sales representatives, entrepreneurs, and professionals. These individuals are collectively referred to as members and the members pay membership fees to participate in AmSpirit Business Connections Chapters. The members of these Chapters meet on a weekly basis to participate in a structured meeting format where they assist one another to succeed by creating a forum where they can exchange qualified referrals. Are you looking for a professional environment where you can assist others to become more successful?

CarePatrol: As a CarePatrol franchisee you will be assisting seniors and their families make tough decisions by finding Assisted Living or In Home Care in their area. You will contract with area care providers and get paid handsomely every time your client chooses care with one of those providers. You will be helping families at a difficult time in their lives and feel great while doing it, knowing that you have made a difference with each and every client. Unlike other businesses, you will provide your services absolutely FREE to your clients. That's right, FREE. You will get paid by the hundreds of care providers that contract with you to connect your clients with them.

Creative Colors International: Creative Colors International is recognized as the leader in the repair, reconditioning, protection, and color restoration of leather, vinyl, fabric, plastic and carpeting in the automotive, furniture, commercial, and residential markets. The expert technicians of Creative Colors International can restore damaged items to like-new condition while providing their clients with significant cost savings versus replacement; sometimes as much as a 90% savings! In addition to delivering dramatic results, Creative Colors International offers convenience by performing all repairs on-site at their clients' home, office, restaurant, body shop or car dealership.

Furniture Medic: Furniture Medic, the world's largest furniture repair and restoration franchisor, has established a reputation for excellence unmatched in the industry. Their system's success is firmly rooted in their dedication to providing customers with unparalleled craftsmanship and quality service. Utilizing exclusive, technologically advanced equipment, products and processes, the expert technicians of Furniture Medic revitalize valuable furniture and wood pieces, restoring and enhancing their natural beauty and strength. In addition to delivering dramatic results, a Furniture Medic franchisees offers convenience by performing many repairs on-site in homes and offices. Franchisees provide home and business owners an affordable alternative to replacing fine wood furnishings and fixtures.

Inspect-It 1st: Founded in 1991 and franchising since 1998, Inspect-It 1st has been providing first-rate home inspection services. They are striving to be the best home inspection company in the industry and committed to providing quality service, with the integrity that you deserve. Inspect-It 1st offers a number of inspection services for homebuyers and real estate professionals. Franchisees, professional home inspectors, are highly trained and carry both General Liability and Errors and Omissions Insurance. Franchisees are engaged by consumers, realtors, lenders, relocation companies, investors and others to provide an objective assessment of a property's major systems and components. They are generalists who identify if further evaluation by a specialist (i.e. plumber, electrician, structural engineer, etc.) is warranted, so previous experience in construction or the trades is not required. Following an inspection, franchisees deliver a proprietary inspection report (either hard copy, via email, or through an online system), complete with digital photos. Every month franchisees perform thousands of inspections in the residential and commercial markets.

KidzArt: With KidzArt and its programs for all ages, students learn to see the world differently. Franchisees offer exciting art programs with visual and perceptual tools for ages 2-102 that are easy to learn. They make problem solving a fun, transforming and educational experience! Lessons are developed to be challenging without being frustrating. KidzArt helps to create WINNERS and ultimately, THE INNOVATORS OF TOMORROW! There are three investment levels to choose from (Executive, Teach Plus, and Teach) so this is a great opportunity at different investment and owner participation levels.

Lemon Heaven International: Lemon Heaven provides freshly squeezed lemonade, freshly squeezed fruit juices, smoothies, cotton candy, sno cones as well as mini donuts, and other items. Their unique Kiosk Setup, Concession Trailers, Street Carts and Area Carts are built for high volume sales. Currently they offer "Special Event" franchises by the territory or "Site Specific" locations. Their award-winning kiosks, concession trailers and vending carts are extremely versatile and can be operated at a variety of sites. Ideal spots for locating your business include: Sporting events, Concerts, Amusement parks, Arenas & stadiums, Convention centers, Festivals & fairs, Zoos, Malls, Golf courses, Farmer's markets.

New Pro Publications: New Pro Publications, creator of the Caddy Card, has developed a profitable new distributorship program and is now expanding across the United States and Canada. They have been successfully producing the Caddy Card in the Toronto market for over 16 years. They have produced over 5 million individual Caddy Card booklets and have over 2000 clients that advertise inside their Caddy Cards. A Caddy Card is a very attractive, 16 page, custom designed, full color, golf course guide book, scorecard, and training aid all in one. The Caddy Card fits in your pocket and is fun to use. Golfers, golf courses, advertisers, and our distributors all benefit when a new Caddy Card is created.

Pets Are Inn: Love your dog? Thought of putting him a cage for a week or two upsetting? Now you don't have to. Introducing the #1 pet lodging alternative and the most unique pet franchise in the industry. At Pets Are Inn your cherished pet is cared for in a pre-screened private home by dog lovers. The business model has you/and or your staff providing round trip pick-up and delivery. Finally...loving pet care with no cages or kennels. Enjoy vacations and business trips without guilt. Low investment and exceptionally high returns. Easy to run. Simple to manage. And if you love animals...the perfect pet franchise. It's peace of mind for you and a "home environment" for that special member of the family.

SDS Associates: Equipment leasing and financing is not subject to the same regulations that are so prevalent in the banking industry. In fact, equipment leasing and financing is considered to be "unregulated" which is a very good thing. The trend for banks tightening their lending practices has created even more opportunity in the equipment leasing and financing business as business owners who still need equipment in order to operate effectively are turning to leasing as an attractive way to acquire the equipment they need to be successful. The Start-Up Broker Program provides all of the skills, strategies, expertise and support necessary for a new Broker to be successful in this business-necessary industry. They provide all of the skills, strategies, expertise and support necessary to be successful in this well-established, $200+ Billion dollar per year, business-critical industry. Brokers profit from a business that requires very low overhead to operate, and appeals to a wide variety of industry types and equipment markets. It is estimated that approximately 80% of American businesses lease some of the equipment they need to be successful.

ServiceMaster Clean: ServiceMaster Clean is a professional commercial cleaning company with more than 55 years of franchising experience and over 4,500 franchises worldwide. Entrepreneur Magazine consistently ranks ServiceMaster Clean in their Top 10 ranking of Home-Based Franchises and Low-Cost Franchises. Their established and well-regarded reputation will give you a significant head start in the marketplace. Opportunities are now available for new commercial cleaning franchise owners in many of the nation’s largest cities. Their new FastStart program is designed to help new owners in the commercial cleaning category build revenues faster. With a minimum cash requirement as low as $7,800 plus working capital, they can help you reach your goal of business ownership.

Snaggle Foot: Snaggle Foot Dog Walks & Pet Care understands that there's no place like home. So when you entrust them with your beloved family member, they come to you... caring for your dog, cat, and other pets in the comfort of the place they love best. Their pet sitting franchise provides a generous array of pet care services that bestow upon your loved one the exercise, attention, and care they deserve when you can't be there to give it. The benefits of at-home pet care are many. Just like people, pets appreciate the reassurance and stability that routine brings. With a Snaggle Foot pet sitter making house calls, your pets are allowed to maintain their regular feeding and exercise schedule, avoid the mental and physical stress of a boarding facility or kennel, and, a bonded and insured professional is looking after your home as well. If customers wish, franchisees can bring in mail, alternate the lights, water plants, and complete other home maintenance tasks. Services are tailored to meet the customers' needs and schedules.

If you would like more information about these opportunities, please contact Meta-Franchise Consulting at http://www.metafranchiseconsulting.com or metafranchiseconsulting@gmail.com. We look forward to helping you achieve your dream of business ownership. Be on the look out for Part 3 of this series when we will cover low-cost BUSINESS (versus franchise) opportunities.

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