What training can I expect when I buy a franchise?

Entering a franchise can be an exciting way to run your own business while benefiting from an established brand and proven business model. However, one of the most important factors for franchise success is the training you receive from the franchisor. Training equips you with the operational knowledge, business skills and staff management tools needed to run a franchise effectively.

What is the purpose of franchise training?

A franchisor’s primary goal is to ensure you can operate the business according to their brand and standards.

Brian Duckett, former chairman of The Franchising Centre, explains: “You can argue that a franchisor’s sole purpose in life is to train its franchisees in all aspects of ‘how to run the store’ and ‘how to run the business’. That means all the operational aspects plus the financial management, staffing and employment issues, local marketing and business planning skills.”

Training helps ensure consistent service, customer satisfaction and the long-term success of both the franchisee and the brand.

Initial training may take place at the franchisor’s headquarters, at another outlet or online. You’ll usually complete it before you begin to operate your franchise. It’s underpinned by the operations manual.

Will a franchisor tailor training to me?

Most franchisors have a set induction programme, but they may adapt it depending on your experience.

Alan Wilkinson, head of franchise development at The Franchising Centre, notes: “If you already have a good knowledge and understanding of a particular topic, the franchisor may choose to spend less time on this topic and more time on one you’re less confident on.”

How can I be sure the training is effective?

Ideally, franchise training will equip you with both operational and broader business management skills. However, as Brian Duckett notes: “Just about any franchisor will train you in ‘how to run the store’, but many forget to include ‘how to run the business’. They’ll cover all the operational aspects in detail, but will often neglect financial management, staffing and employment issues, local marketing and business planning skills.”

“The best way to find out whether the proposed training is adequate and effective is to ask other franchisees who have been through it.”

Will the training cover my staff, too?

Depending on the franchise agreement, training can extend to your employees. Vicky Wilkes, head of legal at Aston Villa Football Club, explains: “It’s not uncommon for a franchisor to provide additional training at the request of the franchisee. However, this may be at your own expense. The details and costs of additional training will depend on the terms of your franchise agreement.”

In some businesses, the franchisor may train staff at a central school or onsite at your outlet, ensuring they can deliver the product or service to the required standard.

How much will franchise training cost me?

Shelley Nadler, legal director at Bird & Bird, says, “The initial training fee varies from company to company. It’s often included in the initial franchise fee, which you’ll pay when the franchise is granted.”

John Pratt, senior partner at Hamilton Pratt, adds: “Normally the initial training will last a week to two weeks and will be at the franchisor’s headquarters and/or another outlet.

“What will generally not be included in the initial fee will be your accommodation and living expenses for attending the training. Generally speaking, franchisees have to pay this themselves.”

Will I receive ongoing training?

Training doesn’t stop once your franchise opens. Franchisees may need to attend mandatory updates or additional courses to stay current with new products, techniques or procedures.

Vicky Wilkes notes: “Many franchisors will provide this type of training at no additional cost, as it is funded as part of the ongoing fee paid to the franchisor throughout the term of the franchise agreement. However you’ll still usually be responsible for any accommodation, travel and subsistence costs incurred.”

Conclusion

Franchisor training is essential for both operational competence and business success. While initial training is typically included in the franchise fee, additional costs for travel, accommodation and optional training may apply.

Understanding what is covered, how it is delivered, and the support available for your staff will help you make an informed decision about any franchise opportunities you are considering.