The information you submit via our enquiry form is shared only with the franchise business(es) that you have selected.

The franchise business will contact you by means of email and/ or telephone only to the email address and phone number you have provided.

By submitting the enquiry form you are consenting to send your personal information to the selected franchise business.

You also agree to receive further newsletter email marketing from What Franchise.

Close

Why ‘olderpreneurs’ make first-rate franchisees

Why ‘olderpreneurs’ make first-rate franchisees

Franchising provides an ideal opportunity for late business bloomers

As the franchise industry evolves, many assume it’s beginning to become a young person’s game, attracting a range of diverse entrepreneurs with the promise of innovation and new direction.

While it’s true that there’s been a significant rise in the younger generation entering the industry, highlighted in the 2018 British Franchise Association NatWest franchise survey, which showed under-30s represented 27 per cent of all new recruits in the previous two years, the older generation continues to play an important part in the sector.

Top franchisee profile

The results of the survey revealed that overall over- 50s have remained the top franchisee profile since 2005, making up 35 per cent of all franchisees in 2018.

As much as it’s good news that the industry is bringing in fresh faces and embracing a new generation, we cannot forget the wealth of talent, experience and ambition the over-50s can offer franchisors.

An aspect of the franchise industry that’s appealing to those considering becoming a franchisee is the provision of expert training and initial and ongoing support and guidance from a franchisor. This can be particularly appealing to under-30s, who have not amassed the same experience and knowledge as an older prospect.

However, this doesn’t mean you become business savvy overnight, with the survey revealing that 52 per cent of franchisors cite a lack of business acumen as a reason for not granting a franchise licence.

Ideal partner

This proves that baby boomers continue to have an edge on other demographics, as their accumulation of skills, coupled with their experience, makes them an ideal partner for businesses looking to put their brand in someone else’s hands.

Additionally, over-50s will more likely have the financial capacity to fund a franchise. This is a significant issue for franchisors looking to recruit franchisees, with insufficient capital topping the reasons for not granting a franchise. Of course, every case is different, but many people have been saving their entire working lives, giving them the capital necessary to invest in their own business.

No cut-off date

Ultimately, there isn’t a deadline for when it’s acceptable to chase your dream. Franchisees come in all shapes and sizes and all have unique journeys, personalities and experience.

For the industry to continue to thrive and move forward in 2020, we’re dependent on growing diversity and the acceptance of people who are choosing to invest their expertise and talent in franchising, whether they’re Generation Z or coming towards the twilight of their careers.

The author

Pip Wilkins is CEO of the British Franchise Association

Exciting Franchise Opportunities

The Fruit and Veg Man logo

Start your own The Fruit and Veg Man franchise

Profit Chart
Funding Support Available ? Help is available. Check out our franchising funds guide.

Yes

Find Out More
Expected Revenue After 2 Years

£150,000

Request Free Information
Find Out More
The Fruit and Veg Man logo

Request Free Information

Send a free enquiry to The Fruit and Veg Man for further information!

By sharing your email, you're agreeing to our privacy policy, cookie policy and terms & conditions.
World Options logo

Start your own World Options franchise

Profit Chart
Funding Support Available ? Help is available. Check out our franchising funds guide.

Yes

Find Out More
Expected Revenue After 2 Years

N/A

Request Free Information
Find Out More
World Options logo

Request Free Information

Send a free enquiry to World Options for further information!

By sharing your email, you're agreeing to our privacy policy, cookie policy and terms & conditions.
Blam Partners logo

Start your own Blam Partners franchise

Profit Chart
Funding Support Available ? Help is available. Check out our franchising funds guide.

Yes

Find Out More
Expected Revenue After 2 Years

At least £8,000

Request Free Information
Find Out More
Blam Partners logo

Request Free Information

Send a free enquiry to Blam Partners for further information!

By sharing your email, you're agreeing to our privacy policy, cookie policy and terms & conditions.
Crunch Fitness logo

Start your own Crunch Fitness franchise

Profit Chart
Funding Support Available ? Help is available. Check out our franchising funds guide.

Yes

Find Out More
Expected Revenue After 2 Years

£1,782,200

Request Free Information
Find Out More
Crunch Fitness logo

Request Free Information

Send a free enquiry to Crunch Fitness for further information!

By sharing your email, you're agreeing to our privacy policy, cookie policy and terms & conditions.
Fat Phill’s  logo

Start your own Fat Phill’s franchise

Profit Chart
Funding Support Available ? Help is available. Check out our franchising funds guide.

Yes

Find Out More
Expected Revenue After 2 Years

N/A

Request Free Information
Find Out More
Fat Phill’s  logo

Request Free Information

Send a free enquiry to Fat Phill’s for further information!

By sharing your email, you're agreeing to our privacy policy, cookie policy and terms & conditions.
View all opportunities

Must Read Articles

View all Business Advice