What information should a franchisor’s operations manual contain?
It will contain in a written or electronic form the complete systems and method for conducting the franchise, including the franchisor’s ideas, know-how and trade secrets, as well as the day to day instructions for the operation of the business.
The manual should contain an introduction explaining the nature of the operation and the business philosophy of the franchisor. It should set out what the franchisee should expect from the franchisor and what the franchisor will expect from the franchisee.
There should be a detailed description of the operational system, which explains how the operation is set up. There should also be a section dealing with the equipment that’s required for the operation of the business. It should give an explanation of what the equipment is, what it does and how to operate it. Details of suppliers and maintenance companies may also be included.
There will follow the operating procedures, which may deal with staff and training, purchasing policies, product and service standards, accounting and reporting, advertising and marketing, insurance and stock control.
It’s usual to include a section on the franchisor’s social media policy for franchisees and their employees. There may also be a section setting out the standard forms used in the business, such as customer contract forms and contracts of employment.
The exact contents of the manual will depend on the type of business operated.
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.
You might also be interested in
Louise Harris writes: A business with a franchiseable set-up has several routes to market. The most common... read more
Shelley Nadler writes: In order to maintain the identity and uniformity of a franchise brand, a franchisor... read more
Louise Harris writes: During the discovery and disclosure process, the franchisee should be told - and definitely... read more
John Pratt writes: You must make sure you adopt a cautious and logical approach to taking a... read more
Exciting Franchise Opportunities
Request Free Information
Send a free enquiry to Maplebrook Wills for further information!
Request Free Information
Send a free enquiry to Thérapie Clinic for further information!
Request Free Information
Send a free enquiry to The Kleaning Company for further information!
Request Free Information
Send a free enquiry to Revive! for further information!
Request Free Information
Send a free enquiry to Miss Millie’s for further information!
_59_29_80_s.jpg){kind=logo}
_59_59_80_s.jpg){kind=logo}
_high_res_(1)_59_33_80_s.jpg){kind=logo}
_59_26_80_s.jpg){kind=logo}
