Can I start a franchise on a part-time basis?

Many UK franchises can be run on a part-time basis.

A key factor that will dictate whether a franchise may operate on a part-time basis is the business format at the heart of the franchise.

Some formats lend themselves to part-time working - for example, franchises that can be run from home, are predominantly computer-based and where hours are flexible.

For parents with young children wishing to work part-time, franchises targeted at young children are a good idea, as they tend to fit in with a family routine and are often structured to allow for family commitments.

The advantage of a part-time franchise is that the initial investment required is often lower. There are some key things, however, that a potential part-time franchisee should check. The franchisor should be asked if there are any minimum requirements in the franchise agreement regarding the amount of hours/days that should be worked.

In addition, there may be financial targets that need to be satisfied. If this is the case, you should check with an accountant if it’s going to be possible to meet those targets working on a parttime basis.

Another option, if you only have a limited amount of time to devote to a franchise, is running it with others, so that responsibilities will be shared and the pressures of running a business will be reduced. This approach would have to be discussed and approved by the franchisor.

Shelley Nadler is a legal director in Bird & Bird’s international franchising team and has many years’ experience of advising on all aspects of franchising.