How long does a franchisor’s selection process take?

Louise Harris writes:

Becoming a franchisee should not be an instant decision - either for you or your franchisor. Since both parties are signing a legally binding contract for a specific period of time, it’s critical they both know what they’re getting themselves in to.

The process should take at least a couple of months to allow a franchisee to fully understand the business, as far as possible, and appreciate the full expectations - both what will be expected of them and what they can expect of their franchisor.

Taking a considered and unhurried approach, it’s unlikely the process, which should involve at least two meetings where both parties are able to get to know each other, will take less than a few months.

There may be pressure applied if a unique territory is being reserved and there are several people interested. A refundable deposit will give you time to explore your options and make a considered decision All this means that when asked how long the selection process takes that answer has to be, as long as you need it to take. Anyone pressurising or hurrying a decision may not have your best interests at heart.

Louise Harris is franchise director of Wilkins Chimney Sweep. She sits on the British Franchise Association board and chairs the membership committee.