Franchise businesses are expected to grow in 2021, according to an economic forecast by the International Franchise Association (IFA). The report predicts that nearly all of the economic damage done to the industry by the COVID-19 pandemic could be erased this year, and that franchising is projected to open 26,000-plus locations in the U.S., adding nearly 800,000 jobs, many of which will come in the services, retail, and food sectors.
The operations departments: Chris Buitron works in the services sector of franchising. He’s CEO and president of a pest-control franchise with a national imprint, Mosquito Authority®. “With our operations teams going back in the field to help new franchisees get started – after COVID caused businesses of all kinds to work remotely – the learning curve is lessened,” Buitron says. “One of the biggest advantages of owning a franchise, as opposed to starting one’s own business, is the collaboration factor and the operations template. Everything’s in place.
“When some people buy into a franchise, they’re often thinking first about the brand image, not the back end of operations that is such a big key to making it work. It speeds up the launch process for a new franchisee when we have boots on the ground in their territory. There’s only so much you can do by Zoom. There’s no replacing in-person training and idea sharing.”
Buitron’s three biggest keys to franchisee success:
- Follow the system. “Deviating from a proven system can cost you your franchise,” Buitron says. “If the system isn’t working for you, talk about it with headquarters or other franchisees. Usually, the solution is better communication or additional training. Following the system preserves the brand and protects your investment.”
- Train your people. Buitron says the beauty of franchising is a repeatable system born of continuous training. “A committed franchisee should learn everything they can from the franchisor, then take on a committed role as mentor to their employees,” Buitron says. “Hold refresher and advanced training sessions with employees, especially those who aspire to ownership themselves.”
- Communicate consistently. “This means with employees, customers, and the franchisor,” Buitron says. “Reach out to them and the community. Find ways to keep customers and reach new ones. The keys are brainstorming with your team and presenting customers with value they can always count on.”
“Many businesses were forced to adapt during COVID, and the franchising industry was a prime example of that,” Buitron says. “Corporate-level management reached out to help franchisees, strengthening the team concept that makes franchising so appealing. Surviving and thriving in adversity is the best preparation for future success.”
Chris Buitron is CEO and president of Mosquito Authority®, a nationwide leader in mosquito control with franchises serving communities across the U.S. and Canada. Buitron has an extensive background in franchise industries. He was chief marketing officer for Senior Helpers, vice president of marketing for Direct Energy (home services division), and director of marketing for Sunoco Inc., where he supported the company’s 4,700 franchised and company-owned rental facilities across 23 states (over $15B in annual revenues).
