Not sure how helpful this is...but I interviewed some local baby class franchise owners for an article for a previous edition of the NCT newsletter. Pasted my "findings" below. They were were all very enthusiastic. I didn?t however find any ex-class people to ask, who I guess would give a different story...
What is the cost?
Not only do the costs of franchises range from hundreds of pounds to tens of thousands, the terms of the franchise vary greatly too. Most franchises require an initial investment, plus you have to buy their branded equipment and then there are the ongoing franchise fees.
As with anything financial you undertake, it is worth seeking professional advice on this aspect in particular.
What support can you expect from the franchise organisation? Other franchisees?
All those that I interviewed found that the franchise organisation was very supportive and helpful. They also play an important function in bringing franchisees in the organisation together both online and at training days/conferences. This sense of community and peer sharing network was very important for all franchisees.
Buying into a franchise means you have to work within their guidelines and ?rules? however, that does mean you are using tested methods.
What are the pros?
Everybody I interviewed loved the new worklife/balance they?d achieved through their new careers. Some were able to bring their babies along with them, which was a great bonus. There was also a sense of satisfaction in running their own businesses.
What are the challenges?
Starting a new business, franchise or not, offers a number of challenges. And all those I interviewed, stressed the importance of being organised plus also knowing what is required when you own a business. Juggling the various tasks; running the classes, marketing, paperwork, accounts, admin can be difficult. It isn?t just about delivering the classes!
And one of the suppliers pointed out that you need to be ready to market yourself wherever you go, you cannot be shy if you want to develop your business.
Any regrets?
Finally I asked if any of them would have done anything differently and none of them had any major regrets. In fact all of them were a great endorsement for running a franchise business, and as one supplier said ?I love it....it has changed my life?.