Some of my more pro-active royal subjects have been scouring the www for interesting and informative stories all week, and here's what they came up with.

For you;

On the "good franchise news" front, it's great to see franchise owners renew their franchise agreements for another 10 years. Like this gentleman did. Congrats!

Did you know that there was a sweet blogging contest held, last week? This was the 2nd blogging and comment contest held by the bizSugar and Bloggertone (this time with some major help from HP!) small business communities, and there was a record number of votes. The winners

Speaking of great writing, my friend, Jonathan Fields is one of the best. Here's his 911 post. It's worth the read. 9 Years Later, The Air Still Thickens

(Disclosure; I do content marketing for Solar Universe.)

To most of us, the concept of using solar power to provide energy to our homes and businesses is pretty foreign. It's a pretty new technology, and a lot is still being "worked out." There are even "solar franchises."

Domenic Gentile, a Solar Universe franchisee, does a nice job of explaining the costs and benefits of using solar power in this video from Reno's, "The House Detective," television show.

Here's a post I did in May, with some updates about Solar Universe, and it's steady growth.

Margaritas was crowned the Best Mexican Restaurant in the "Baby, You're the Best" contest sponsored by NECN, the regional cable television network serving all of New England. The online contest was part of a summer-long quest to find the best food and drinks that New England has to offer.

"We want to thank our loyal guests and friends of the company for their overwhelming support and to each and every one of our team members who have helped us create the ultimate guest experience, "said John Pelletier, founder of Margaritas Mexican Restaurants. "We also send congratulations to the other four finalists, Las Olas Taqueria, Cafe Azteca, Loco Coco's and Ole Mexican Grill, for their tough competition and for being included in such a select group of New England restaurants."

Margaritas Mexican Restaurant Group has 21 locations throughout Massachusetts, Maine, New Hampshire and Connecticut. 

I feel that buying a franchise can be safer than starting a business from scratch, most of the time. There are franchising opportunities galore being offered to prospective franchise buyers, 24/7.

But, is buying a franchise really safe?

Is it safe to drive around at 3:00 in the morning? Is it safe to quit your job, before you have something else lined up? (Personally, I never believed in that theory. I always left a job before I had something else going on. It pissed my Dad off to no end.) 

I think that everyone has a different "safety valve." It's really about risk, and the ways we use to level the playing field-reduce that risk. 

"This nation was built by men who took risks - pioneers who were not afraid of the wilderness, business men who were not afraid of failure, scientists who were not afraid of the truth, thinkers who were not afraid of progress, dreamers who were not afraid of action."  ~Brooks Atkinson

Lower Your Risk

One way to lower your risk is by obtaining the knowledge necessary to make a fact-based decision. Knowledge is power, right? In franchising, it's not only important to learn all you can about the business model of franchising, but it's also important to figure out if becoming a franchise owner is right for you. You may be interested in the hottest franchise south of the Mason-Dixon line, but if you're not cut out for franchising, it is risky to move forward with it.

If you're serious about becoming a franchise owner, (even if you're already looking at a few opportunities) take a little step back, and make sure that you know exactly how a franchise works, and take the time to find out if it can work for you..

That's how buying a franchise can be safe. (Or at least, safer.)

Here's 3 franchise due diligence tips.

Part 1 of this post about future franchise owners started off with this question;

"Should a recent college graduate buy a franchise business?"

I stated that when I was asked that question, 9 times out of 10, my answer was no. My reason for saying no has nothing to do with their intelligence or talents. It has to do with real-life business experience. 

Todd Weiss, a fellow franchise professional out of New York agreed. He said;

"Not advisable. I think a recent graduate is better served getting experience in the work force. Consider it the real part of the education process."

J. Bailey said, "I agree with you on this one. I really don't think it would be wise to start a franchise right out of college. I think."

What if I'm wrong?

Maybe I'm not looking at this correctly. Who am I (I am the Franchise King!) to suggest that college grads just just go out and get well-paying jobs, so that they can learn how businesses really run?

Maybe, instead of getting good jobs, maybe they should just go for it. After all, it's not like being an employee is all that good, as of late. Being downsized is no fun, especially when you have folks preying on you when you do lose your job.

A popular topic

Sara Wilson, a great small business writer, just so happened to pen a post about this very topic, the same day that I did. In it she said that, "younger franchisees might be more prone to glamorizing the concept of owning a franchise without understanding the extent of the commitment or duties it involves."

I highly recommend that you read her post at AllBusiness.com. Then, I highly recommend that you come back to this post for your chance at winning a great prize. (Kidding)

**********************************************************************************************************

If you happen to be a 20-something that's reading this, and you feel that it is your time to become a franchise owner, here's some gently suggestions for you, to help you get on your way;

1. Get some money. I don't care where you get it, or how you happen to procure your stash of cash. Just have enough.

Don't forget about what I call "living expenses." You'll want to eat and drink well, during the long days and nights that are ahead of you, as you figure out the mechanics of your new franchise business. Make sure that you serve nutritious, energy-laden meals.

Costco, or maybe even Sam's Club, probably has Spaghettios in bulk. Stock up.

Speaking of Sam's Club, you should purchase a membership there. (Not just because of the Spaghettios and other assorted foods that are available in bulk, but because of the opportunity you'll have to get a small business loan for your new franchise.)

That's right. I know that your generation can't stand the Walton's. (Not those Walton's) The Wal-Mart-Sam's Club-Walton's. You'll have to learn to like them, though. That's because you won't be making enough money to eat during your 1st year in business, so buying what little food you'll be able to afford in bulk, will be the way to go.

Now, about those small business loans. SmallBizDaily, Rieva Lesonsky's blog, reported on the Sam's Club small business loan program a week ago. Read

***********************************************************************************************************

2. Get some money. $25,000 from Sam's Club won't get you very far. It may cover your up-front franchise fee.

3. Get religious. (Or at least get spiritual) Ask for prayers. The 1st year in a start-up business, franchise or not, is tough. Ask anybody that's been there.

4. Get family support. (Get money from Uncle Mort) Enough said.

5. Get an attorney. (A franchise attorney) Read this important post about how to find one.

6. Get a CPA. They'll help you with the numbers. (Lots of different numbers.)

 

****************************************************************************************************

Now, go ahead and open your franchise.

Are you nervous? Good!

50-year old, experienced businesspeople are just as nervous.

Even with their 25+ years of real-life business experience.

*************************************************************************************************************

As promised, here's a look at a few 20-year old franchise owners.

You're really never done learning. Learn

Part 1 of this post about future franchise owners started off with this question;

"Should a recent college graduate buy a franchise business?"

I stated that when I was asked that question, 9 times out of 10, my answer was no. My reason for saying no has nothing to do with their intelligence or talents. It has to do with real-life business experience. 

Todd Weiss, a fellow franchise professional out of New York agreed. He said;

"Not advisable. I think a recent graduate is better served getting experience in the work force. Consider it the real part of the education process."

J. Bailey said, "I agree with you on this one. I really don't think it would be wise to start a franchise right out of college. I think."

What if I'm wrong?

Maybe I'm not looking at this correctly. Who am I (I am the Franchise King!) to suggest that college grads just just go out and get well-paying jobs, so that they can learn how businesses really run?

Maybe, instead of getting good jobs, maybe they should just go for it. After all, it's not like being an employee is all that good, as of late. Being downsized is no fun, especially when you have folks preying on you when you do lose your job.

A popular topic

Sara Wilson, a great small business writer, just so happened to pen a post about this very topic, the same day that I did. In it she said that, "younger franchisees might be more prone to glamorizing the concept of owning a franchise without understanding the extent of the commitment or duties it involves."

I highly recommend that you read her post at AllBusiness.com. Then, I highly recommend that you come back to this post for your chance at winning a great prize. (Kidding)

**********************************************************************************************************

If you happen to be a 20-something that's reading this, and you feel that it is your time to become a franchise owner, here's some gently suggestions for you, to help you get on your way;

1. Get some money. I don't care where you get it, or how you happen to procure your stash of cash. Just have enough.

Don't forget about what I call "living expenses." You'll want to eat and drink well, during the long days and nights that are ahead of you, as you figure out the mechanics of your new franchise business. Make sure that you serve nutritious, energy-laden meals.

Costco, or maybe even Sam's Club, probably has Spaghettios in bulk. Stock up.

Speaking of Sam's Club, you should purchase a membership there. (Not just because of the Spaghettios and other assorted foods that are available in bulk, but because of the opportunity you'll have to get a small business loan for your new franchise.)

That's right. I know that your generation can't stand the Walton's. (Not those Walton's) The Wal-Mart-Sam's Club-Walton's. You'll have to learn to like them, though. That's because you won't be making enough money to eat during your 1st year in business, so buying what little food you'll be able to afford in bulk, will be the way to go.

Now, about those small business loans. SmallBizDaily, Rieva Lesonsky's blog, reported on the Sam's Club small business loan program a week ago. Read

***********************************************************************************************************

2. Get some money. $25,000 from Sam's Club won't get you very far. It may cover your up-front franchise fee.

3. Get religious. (Or at least get spiritual) Ask for prayers. The 1st year in a start-up business, franchise or not, is tough. Ask anybody that's been there.

4. Get family support. (Get money from Uncle Mort) Enough said.

5. Get an attorney. (A franchise attorney) Read this important post about how to find one.

6. Get a CPA. They'll help you with the numbers. (Lots of different numbers.)

 

****************************************************************************************************

Now, go ahead and open your franchise.

Are you nervous? Good!

50-year old, experienced businesspeople are just as nervous.

Even with their 25+ years of real-life business experience.

*************************************************************************************************************

As promised, here's a look at a few 20-year old franchise owners.

You're really never done learning. Learn

In New Zealand, Dr. Callum Floyd is the guy. (When if comes to all things franchise) 

Dr. Callum Floyd

**********************************************************************************************************

I've been reading his detailed articles for years, now. He gets it. Here's what he wrote to his New Zealand audience about franchising a business;

"Creating a franchise system of quality is a complex, time consuming and expensive task. Franchisors need to excel in not just one market, but two. First is the market for franchises; second is the market for end-users of the products and services. Therefore, the franchisor must develop a business concept that is attractive to customers and profitable enough to generate sufficient returns to franchisor and franchisees over the long-term. Also, the franchisor must develop a franchise format that is attractive to prospective franchisees, effective in replicating the original business concept, and provides franchisees with the ongoing support and skills necessary to meet the changing needs of customers and the wider market environment."

Read the rest of Dr. Floyd's post, and bookmark it, if you're even thinking about taking your established business to the next level; the franchise level.   

In New Zealand, Dr. Callum Floyd is the guy. (When if comes to all things franchise) 

Dr. Callum Floyd

**********************************************************************************************************

I've been reading his detailed articles for years, now. He gets it. Here's what he wrote to his New Zealand audience about franchising a business;

"Creating a franchise system of quality is a complex, time consuming and expensive task. Franchisors need to excel in not just one market, but two. First is the market for franchises; second is the market for end-users of the products and services. Therefore, the franchisor must develop a business concept that is attractive to customers and profitable enough to generate sufficient returns to franchisor and franchisees over the long-term. Also, the franchisor must develop a franchise format that is attractive to prospective franchisees, effective in replicating the original business concept, and provides franchisees with the ongoing support and skills necessary to meet the changing needs of customers and the wider market environment."

Read the rest of Dr. Floyd's post, and bookmark it, if you're even thinking about taking your established business to the next level; the franchise level.   

 

I don't know about you, but all this talk about our lousy US economy is getting old. (Two years old!)

 
Having said that, I certainly know several friends, neighbors, and even some family members of mine that are struggling. It really sucks.
 
Warning; I'm not some brilliant financial planner who can suggest some great places to invest, right now, so you can make some fairly quick money.
 
What I am is a franchise consultant/broker. I do have the power to change your "personal economy," if you'll allow me into your world. In times like these, there are opportunities that are out there for the taking.

Trust

In order for you to change your personal economy, you'll have to put your trust in me. (Or someone!) 

The internet has allowed lots of people to establish a presence, and be either self-proclaimed experts in their fields, or real ones that others look to for advice and counsel. I feel that true expertise comes from real-life experiences, combined with years of perfecting a craft.

Real expertise brings with it, kudos from others in your particular industry, and from clients or customers that have actually benefited from your products or services.

I've been in the consulting area of franchising since 2001. I ran franchises businesses before that.

Some kudos

I'm Not Bragging

I just wanted you to see what others have to say about me, my work/personal ethics, and my professional services.

Not everybody likes me, though. I'll admit that I'm almost never politically correct, I tend to get to the point rather quickly, and I never sugar-coat my feelings when I'm engaged in conversation, when I'm being interviewed by the media, or, when I write.

Some of it's my A.D.D. I think that some of it is age, too. I'm 51. I don't really care as much about how others feel when I say or write something. I care more about;

• Making a positive impact on the franchise industry

• Protecting people that may attempt to invest in a business of their own.  

Need help?

  

I have helped a lot of folks find great opportunities in franchise ownership. I love helping folks not get a job. I really want more people to go after their dreams, and I feel very strongly about franchising as a way to do so.

I've said before that franchising is not for everybody, but for some, it could just work.

Let me add that this just may be the time to get into a franchise of your own.

Here's why

If you, or someone you know has been recently downsized, (or working at a job they just can't stand) I may be able to help change some things.

I work with a select group of franchisors who are always looking for great people who'd like to become franchise owners.

I can help you figure out which franchises you should be looking at, and which ones you should not spend any time exploring, for various reasons.

I don't sell franchises

I'm a franchise matchmaker. I'll work with you to determine your strengths, your financial risk tolerance, and teach you how to protect yourself with the proper franchise research techniques.

Go to my main website to learn more about my unique process.

If you don't feel that you're ready to take that step, which includes trying to figure out a way to start controlling your own destiny, (instead of your boss doing it for you) and allowing me to personally help you find some great opportunities, I've created some easy to follow, eBook style franchise guides that can get you on your way, at a much slower pace. There's even a complimentary one.

Go to;

Help your personal economy improve.

 

I don't know about you, but all this talk about our lousy US economy is getting old. (Two years old!)

 
Having said that, I certainly know several friends, neighbors, and even some family members of mine that are struggling. It really sucks.
 
Warning; I'm not some brilliant financial planner who can suggest some great places to invest, right now, so you can make some fairly quick money.
 
What I am is a franchise consultant/broker. I do have the power to change your "personal economy," if you'll allow me into your world. In times like these, there are opportunities that are out there for the taking.

Trust

In order for you to change your personal economy, you'll have to put your trust in me. (Or someone!) 

The internet has allowed lots of people to establish a presence, and be either self-proclaimed experts in their fields, or real ones that others look to for advice and counsel. I feel that true expertise comes from real-life experiences, combined with years of perfecting a craft.

Real expertise brings with it, kudos from others in your particular industry, and from clients or customers that have actually benefited from your products or services.

I've been in the consulting area of franchising since 2001. I ran franchises businesses before that.

Some kudos

I'm Not Bragging

I just wanted you to see what others have to say about me, my work/personal ethics, and my professional services.

Not everybody likes me, though. I'll admit that I'm almost never politically correct, I tend to get to the point rather quickly, and I never sugar-coat my feelings when I'm engaged in conversation, when I'm being interviewed by the media, or, when I write.

Some of it's my A.D.D. I think that some of it is age, too. I'm 51. I don't really care as much about how others feel when I say or write something. I care more about;

• Making a positive impact on the franchise industry

• Protecting people that may attempt to invest in a business of their own.  

Need help?

  

I have helped a lot of folks find great opportunities in franchise ownership. I love helping folks not get a job. I really want more people to go after their dreams, and I feel very strongly about franchising as a way to do so.

I've said before that franchising is not for everybody, but for some, it could just work.

Let me add that this just may be the time to get into a franchise of your own.

Here's why

If you, or someone you know has been recently downsized, (or working at a job they just can't stand) I may be able to help change some things.

I work with a select group of franchisors who are always looking for great people who'd like to become franchise owners.

I can help you figure out which franchises you should be looking at, and which ones you should not spend any time exploring, for various reasons.

I don't sell franchises

I'm a franchise matchmaker. I'll work with you to determine your strengths, your financial risk tolerance, and teach you how to protect yourself with the proper franchise research techniques.

Go to my main website to learn more about my unique process.

If you don't feel that you're ready to take that step, which includes trying to figure out a way to start controlling your own destiny, (instead of your boss doing it for you) and allowing me to personally help you find some great opportunities, I've created some easy to follow, eBook style franchise guides that can get you on your way, at a much slower pace. There's even a complimentary one.

Go to;

Help your personal economy improve.

Here's this week's franchise business blog poll. Please vote, so that The Franchise Kingdom can see how you feel about current franchise and small business related issues. Thank you!

Do you like how I use Twitter?

www.Twitter.com/FranchiseKing

Here's this week's franchise business blog poll. Please vote, so that The Franchise Kingdom can see how you feel about current franchise and small business related issues. Thank you!

Do you like how I use Twitter?

www.Twitter.com/FranchiseKing

From wire reports---Baskin-Robbins has just announced that it will no longer be scooping these 5 flavors;

• Caramel Praline Cheesecake

• Campfire S'mores

• Apple Pie a La Mode

• Superfudge Truffle 

• French Vanilla

As I sat on my throne pondering this major development in the ice cream franchise world, one very important question popped in my head. (Well, it didn't really pop right into my head. The question had to circumvent my Crown, first.) 

Here's the question;

Which brilliant executive insisted on sending French Vanilla to the ice cream retirement home? 

*********************************************************************************************

Do you like how I use Twitter?

www.Twitter.com/FranchiseKing

From wire reports---Baskin-Robbins has just announced that it will no longer be scooping these 5 flavors;

• Caramel Praline Cheesecake

• Campfire S'mores

• Apple Pie a La Mode

• Superfudge Truffle 

• French Vanilla

As I sat on my throne pondering this major development in the ice cream franchise world, one very important question popped in my head. (Well, it didn't really pop right into my head. The question had to circumvent my Crown, first.) 

Here's the question;

Which brilliant executive insisted on sending French Vanilla to the ice cream retirement home?

One question that I seem to get asked a lot lately, is this one;

"Should a recent college graduate buy a franchise business?"

9 times out of 10, my answer is no. My reason for saying no has nothing to do with their intelligence or talents. It has to do with real-life business experience.

When I was a 22-year old non-college graduate, I knew a lot about the food and beverage business....

I worked in some pretty swanky places in Cleveland, and by the time I was 25, I was working in some pretty cool places in Las Vegas. ( Yes. I wore a tuxedo like that) I knew how to run what's called the "front of the house." (That's restaurant lingo for the service part of the business.)

I knew how to do employee schedules, figure out seating arrangements, and do nightly sales numbers. What I didn't know was how to do a P & L statement, figure out payroll, or do the marketing and advertising that's needed to keep the doors open of a restaurant doing million's of dollars in annual sales.

Now, maybe a college graduate would know how to do a P & L if he or she took some serious business courses. A college graduate may be able to put a marketing plan together, too. But could he or she actually run a start-up franchise?

(But, Joel, doesn't a franchise come with a 'blueprint" that includes a detailed operation manual, a marketing plan, and even software that helps with payroll and P & L statements?)

Yes. Here's some of the things you get, as a franchise owner.

*********************************************************************************************************

The Wall Street Journal did a short article on young franchisees a couple of years ago. Read about young franchise owners.

The WSJ story fails to mention what a young franchise owner doesn't get;

Years of experience in business. That's a problem.

The Perception

Part of the problem with my industry is that there's this perception that when you buy a franchise, since everything is provided to you by the franchisor, all you have to do is "follow the system." If that was the case, more folks would not only buy franchises, but they'd be rock stars, too. Like this guy.

Well, I'm here to tell you that it's not that easy. But, what is? Just how many "opportunities" do you think are out there in which you can quickly and easily recoup your investment, and become a millionaire?

Of Course, There's Always The Trump Network...

From their website;

"The Trump Network offers you the opportunity to take charge of your financial independence and to promote health and wellness products that can help change your life and the life of others. There is no limit to your success. It is all within your control."

Right.

In Part II of this post, you'll learn how some 22 year old's are entering the world of franchise ownership. If you're a 22 year old, or happen to know one, make sure you (or they) subscribe to The Franchise King Blog. 

Speaking of College's and University's, check this unique one out.

One question that I seem to get asked a lot lately, is this one;

"Should a recent college graduate buy a franchise business?"

9 times out of 10, my answer is no. My reason for saying no has nothing to do with their intelligence or talents. It has to do with real-life business experience.

When I was a 22-year old non-college graduate, I knew a lot about the food and beverage business....

I worked in some pretty swanky places in Cleveland, and by the time I was 25, I was working in some pretty cool places in Las Vegas. ( Yes. I wore a tuxedo like that) I knew how to run what's called the "front of the house." (That's restaurant lingo for the service part of the business.)

I knew how to do employee schedules, figure out seating arrangements, and do nightly sales numbers. What I didn't know was how to do a P & L statement, figure out payroll, or do the marketing and advertising that's needed to keep the doors open of a restaurant doing million's of dollars in annual sales.

Now, maybe a college graduate would know how to do a P & L if he or she took some serious business courses. A college graduate may be able to put a marketing plan together, too. But could he or she actually run a start-up franchise?

(But, Joel, doesn't a franchise come with a 'blueprint" that includes a detailed operation manual, a marketing plan, and even software that helps with payroll and P & L statements?)

Yes. Here's some of the things you get, as a franchise owner.

*********************************************************************************************************

The Wall Street Journal did a short article on young franchisees a couple of years ago. Read about young franchise owners.

The WSJ story fails to mention what a young franchise owner doesn't get;

Years of experience in business. That's a problem.

The Perception

Part of the problem with my industry is that there's this perception that when you buy a franchise, since everything is provided to you by the franchisor, all you have to do is "follow the system." If that was the case, more folks would not only buy franchises, but they'd be rock stars, too. Like this guy.

Well, I'm here to tell you that it's not that easy. But, what is? Just how many "opportunities" do you think are out there in which you can quickly and easily recoup your investment, and become a millionaire?

Of Course, There's Always The Trump Network...

From their website;

"The Trump Network offers you the opportunity to take charge of your financial independence and to promote health and wellness products that can help change your life and the life of others. There is no limit to your success. It is all within your control."

Right.

In Part II of this post, you'll learn how some 22 year old's are entering the world of franchise ownership. If you're a 22 year old, or happen to know one, make sure you (or they) subscribe to The Franchise King Blog. 

Speaking of College's and University's, check this unique one out.

The human resources department over at the IRS (Internal Revenue Service) may be "getting busy," in the next year or so. Real busy. They made need to hire more agents to start checking paperwork submitted by folks who've used a portion of their 401K's or IRA's to start a business...

Are you thinking about using a portion of your 401K/IRA to start your new franchise business? Well, you're not alone.

One choice that is becoming increasingly popular is to use some of your retirement funds to finance a portion of your franchise business start-up.

Leonard Fischer, is an attorney, and is also the founder of BeneTrends, a company that specializes in employee benefit plans and the Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA) of 1974. He has something called The Rainmaker Plan. (Aff link) To qualify, you must have at least one of these; (From the Benetrends website)

•      IRA

•      401 {K}

•      403 {B}

•      457 {For Government agencies}

•      SEP

•      Simple Plan

•      Annuity Plan

•      Defined Benefit Plan

•      Profit Sharing Plan

•      Cash Balance Plan

•      Money Purchase Plan

•      Rollover Plan

•      Employee Stock Ownership Plan

I've covered this topic several times in the past few years, and whenever I do, the comment engine gets pretty fired up. Like here, for instance; "Should You Use Your 401K To Fund Your Franchise Business?"

Well, the IRS's little engine that could may be getting fired up too.That's according to a recent post from Carol Tice over at AllBusiness.com.

Read "Tapping Retirement Money For Your Business? Be Careful" at AllBusiness.com

(I'm comfortable with these plans, as long as the paperwork is perfect, and the prospective business owner is in a good position to leverage his or her plan.)

Did you use a portion of your 401K/IRA to fund your business? Are you thinking about it?

The human resources department over at the IRS (Internal Revenue Service) may be "getting busy," in the next year or so. Real busy. They made need to hire more agents to start checking paperwork submitted by folks who've used a portion of their 401K's or IRA's to start a business...

Are you thinking about using a portion of your 401K/IRA to start your new franchise business? Well, you're not alone.

One choice that is becoming increasingly popular is to use some of your retirement funds to finance a portion of your franchise business start-up.

Leonard Fischer, is an attorney, and is also the founder of BeneTrends, a company that specializes in employee benefit plans and the Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA) of 1974. He has something called The Rainmaker Plan. (Aff link) To qualify, you must have at least one of these; (From the Benetrends website)

•      IRA

•      401 {K}

•      403 {B}

•      457 {For Government agencies}

•      SEP

•      Simple Plan

•      Annuity Plan

•      Defined Benefit Plan

•      Profit Sharing Plan

•      Cash Balance Plan

•      Money Purchase Plan

•      Rollover Plan

•      Employee Stock Ownership Plan

I've covered this topic several times in the past few years, and whenever I do, the comment engine gets pretty fired up. Like here, for instance; "Should You Use Your 401K To Fund Your Franchise Business?"

Well, the IRS's little engine that could may be getting fired up too.That's according to a recent post from Carol Tice over at AllBusiness.com.

Read "Tapping Retirement Money For Your Business? Be Careful" at AllBusiness.com

(I'm comfortable with these plans, as long as the paperwork is perfect, and the prospective business owner is in a good position to leverage his or her plan.)

Did you use a portion of your 401K/IRA to fund your business? Are you thinking about it?

Here's this week's franchise business blog poll. Please vote, so that The Franchise Kingdom can see how you feel about current franchise and small business related issues. Thank you!

My PC crashed around this time last year. Carbonite saved me hours and hours of work trying to retrieve all of it.

It turned out that my Acer PC was shot, so I bought a new HP, and installed Carbonite on that one. (It was free to transfer over to the new PC.)  Then, all I had to do was grab all the data that Carbonite had saved for me from my old PC, and transfer it to the new PC. It was easy to do.

It worked like a charm.

(Aff link)

Try Carbonite Online Backup FREE for 15 days and back up your irreplaceable files automatically and securely. No credit card required!

Here's this week's franchise business blog poll. Please vote, so that The Franchise Kingdom can see how you feel about current franchise and small business related issues. Thank you!

My PC crashed around this time last year. Carbonite saved me hours and hours of work trying to retrieve all of it.

It turned out that my Acer PC was shot, so I bought a new HP, and installed Carbonite on that one. (It was free to transfer over to the new PC.)  Then, all I had to do was grab all the data that Carbonite had saved for me from my old PC, and transfer it to the new PC. It was easy to do.

It worked like a charm.

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(Photo Credit: IBRRC)

It's a tough picture to look at. I'll wager that even the toughest, meanest person you know would even be seriously affected by the image above. Maybe, their tear ducts would open up a little. That's the point.

Here are a few more pictures from KATU.com.

But, is this picture from the gulf oil spill enough to start demanding change? (Not only from our elected officials, but from ourselves.)

• Are we trying a little bit harder to use less fuel?

• Are we seriously considering the purchase of a hybrid vehicle? 
  

• Are we encouraging green technological entrepreneurship? 

One of the more exciting aspects of being involved in all things entrepreneurial, small business, and franchising, is the fact that I get to help promote some of the cool things that are taking place that will undoubtedly affect all of us in the future.

There's a discussion going on over at OPEN Forum By American Express about some of the new technologies, ideas, and even some game-changers from the franchise industry that are worth a look.

In my monthly post, I suggested that "the recent oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico is once again causing us pause; we know in our heads that we need to find alternative energy sources. The nasty, gooey stuff we depend on will run out, eventually."

I talked about three distinct franchise types that may impact all of us. Read this OPEN Forum post.

Then There's The Virgin Group

Sir Richard Branson, founder of The Virgin Group,  took me to school with a post he wrote that was published on the OPEN Forum By American Express site a few hours before mine. Branson wrote that "In a recent report, a task force released findings showing that the world’s oil supplies will peak within the next decade. Rising demand from the developing world and the likelihood that governments and regulators will impose more stringent safety codes on oil exploration companies – BP has just agreed to set aside $20 billion to compensate people affected by the spill in the Gulf – mean that we need to find alternatives to oil dependence, fast."

Wow. He continued;

 

"Though many are arguing otherwise, a planet-wide switch to alternative fuels is possible. Researchers and scientists have made huge advances in the fields of wind, solar and bio-fuel technology – technologies that are already in use, as can be seen by the wind farms sprouting up around the world."

Please read Sir Richard Branson's post. It's really an important and powerful look at the impending energy crisis and how important it is for entrepreneurs to jump in with ideas and solutions, right now.

(Courtesy of tourist_on_earth. Flickr)

So, are you ready to cry, yet?

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(Photo Credit: IBRRC)

It's a tough picture to look at. I'll wager that even the toughest, meanest person you know would even be seriously affected by the image above. Maybe, their tear ducts would open up a little. That's the point.

Here are a few more pictures from KATU.com.

But, is this picture from the gulf oil spill enough to start demanding change? (Not only from our elected officials, but from ourselves.)

• Are we trying a little bit harder to use less fuel?

• Are we seriously considering the purchase of a hybrid vehicle? 
  

• Are we encouraging green technological entrepreneurship? 

One of the more exciting aspects of being involved in all things entrepreneurial, small business, and franchising, is the fact that I get to help promote some of the cool things that are taking place that will undoubtedly affect all of us in the future.

There's a discussion going on over at OPEN Forum By American Express about some of the new technologies, ideas, and even some game-changers from the franchise industry that are worth a look.

In my monthly post, I suggested that "the recent oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico is once again causing us pause; we know in our heads that we need to find alternative energy sources. The nasty, gooey stuff we depend on will run out, eventually."

I talked about three distinct franchise types that may impact all of us. Read this OPEN Forum post.

Then There's The Virgin Group

Sir Richard Branson, founder of The Virgin Group,  took me to school with a post he wrote that was published on the OPEN Forum By American Express site a few hours before mine. Branson wrote that "In a recent report, a task force released findings showing that the world’s oil supplies will peak within the next decade. Rising demand from the developing world and the likelihood that governments and regulators will impose more stringent safety codes on oil exploration companies – BP has just agreed to set aside $20 billion to compensate people affected by the spill in the Gulf – mean that we need to find alternatives to oil dependence, fast."

Wow. He continued;

 

"Though many are arguing otherwise, a planet-wide switch to alternative fuels is possible. Researchers and scientists have made huge advances in the fields of wind, solar and bio-fuel technology – technologies that are already in use, as can be seen by the wind farms sprouting up around the world."

Please read Sir Richard Branson's post. It's really an important and powerful look at the impending energy crisis and how important it is for entrepreneurs to jump in with ideas and solutions, right now.

(Courtesy of tourist_on_earth. Flickr)

So, are you ready to cry, yet?

(This post is part of a paid content marketing program)

If you've recently experienced job loss, especially at the executive level, here's an opportunity in franchise ownership that warrants your attention. You'll enjoy;

• Being part of a $30 billion industry

• Having residential and commercial customers

• High margins, and low overhead

• Predictable yearly revenue stream

• Personalized marketing programs

Are you at least mildly interested? Would you consider becoming a franchise owner?

Fortunately for you, most would-be franchise owners don't really give this franchise concept a good enough look. That may bode well for you, as there may be prime territory right in your own backyard!

"Backyard." That's a hint to what type of business this is, and actually what this business isn't.

What it is, is Spring-Green Lawn Care, out of Chicago. It's a 33-year old company that's stood the test of time.

What it isn't, is a franchise where you're the one doing all the physical work. (But at first glance, you may think that you're the one adding nutrients to your customer's yards-keeping them lush and green.) 

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The folks at Spring-Green Lawn Care have just launched their Executive Model franchise offering. James Young, (Spring-Green's President) told me that "It's a way to appeal to management-orientated businesspeople." I think he's on to something.

As a franchise consultant, it's really important for me to really understand the business model, and who it appeals to. I've learned over the years that things aren't always what they appear to be in the world of franchising.

Get The Facts

A cursory look into Spring-Green via a website or brochure doesn't really give one enough facts about what it would be like to be a Spring-Green franchise owner. It may appear that your role would be mostly a manual labor one. Not true. Investing in the Executive Model of a Spring-Green franchise means that your role will be a sales and operations one. Business development and business management at it's best.

(I feel that it's an added bonus for you as a franchisee, if you happen to enjoy the great outdoors)

The Executive Model awards a franchisee two exclusive territories, which accelerates the marketing investment and helps drive revenue the first few years of operation. This approach requires the hire of one full-time field service professional and the implementation of two service vehicles. Ideal candidates are experienced executive professionals seeking a high margin business to grow annually into their retirement years. Local ties to the community are desired.

Service Business's Rock!

I've personally helped a lot of folks find great service-oriented franchise businesses to buy, and some of them are quite successful. One of the great things about a service business like Spring-Green is that it turns out to be what I call a "fleet business." You end up owning a "fleet"of vehicles that are out every day, servicing your customers-bringing in revenue, in your protected territory. (If you invest in the Executive Model, two territories!)

Owner-Operator, Too

Spring-Green is still offering their owner-operator model. It's been quite a successful one since 1977! I've found that some of the folks that I've worked with in the past actually enjoy doing a good amount of physical labor, and actually thrive on it. It's your choice.

The start-up costs range from a low of $99,314 to a high of $212,150, which includes the initial franchise fee and the first year’s marketing investment. It depends on which model you choose.

The Spring-Green Economic Stimulus Plan

The executive team at Spring-Green Lawn Care Corporation is really excited to be offering some added $$ marketing $$ support to new franchisees who choose either one of the two franchise models.

I'll just bet that you'd like some specifics on the $$ part. 

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If you'd like to explore the possibilities, the team at Spring-Green would like an opportunity to share what they have to offer. Go here