IS FRANCHISING RIGHT FOR YOUR BUSINESS?

FRANCHISING CAN UNLOCK SCALE, BUT ONLY IF YOUR BUSINESS IS READY

Franchising, licensing and owner operator models are powerful ways to grow. But they only work when your systems, brand and people are set up for success. At Familia, we help you explore whether franchising is the right path, what it could look like for your business, and how to get started. Everything we offer is grounded in real experience.

EXPLORING FRANCHISING? WE CAN HELP.

WHAT IS FRANCHISING REALLY ABOUT?

Franchising isn’t a shortcut. It’s a structured way to grow by giving motivated owners the tools to run their own business under your brand.

It works when there’s a clear model, strong support, and the right partners. The benefits can be huge — faster growth, lower overheads, and the ability to scale in a way that still feels personal.

WHAT MAKES A BUSINESS FRANCHISEABLE?

Strong franchise brands usually have:

– A model that works in more than one location

– Clear demand beyond your current area

– Processes that can be taught and repeated

– A brand or experience that stands out

– A founder who wants to grow and is ready to share the journey

READ OUR GUIDE

Why Business Experience Isn’t Enough for Franchising

FRANCHISING ISN’T PASSIVE

It still needs your time, energy and leadership — just in a different way.

IT’S NOT A QUICK WIN

You’ll need systems, training, marketing and support. But it’s a smart way to build something that lasts.

YOU DON’T NEED IT ALL FIGURED OUT

You just need a working business, a growth mindset and the right support.

WHY TALK TO FAMILIA

We don’t just advise on franchising. We’ve done it.
We’ve built and scaled our own franchise brand across the UK. We’ve sat on both sides of the table and know what works in the real world.

We specialise in service-based brands where the experience matters — fitness, early years, wellness, lifestyle and leisure.

Whether you’re just exploring the idea or ready to take your next step, we’ll help you grow with confidence.

FRANCHISE SERVICES INCLUDE:

STRATEGY & READINESS

We help you shape and structure your business for scalable, long-term expansion.

FRANCHISEE RECRUITMENT

We manage recruitment campaigns and support the full sales journey – from enquiry to agreement.

OPERATIONS & SUPPORT

We create toolkits, systems and onboarding frameworks to help franchisees deliver consistently.

FRANCHISE MARKETING

We provide brand-wide and local marketing support to keep your network visible and aligned.

FAQ

What is franchising and how does it work in the UK?

Franchising lets others run your business under your brand for a fee.

In the UK, franchising lets you expand without the costs of opening your own branches. You, as the franchisor, license your brand, systems, and know-how to independent franchisees. They invest in setting up locally, while you provide training, ongoing support, and national marketing. The model is regulated by best practice standards, and the British Franchise Association (BFA) offers guidance on operating ethically.

How much does it cost to franchise my business?

In the UK, franchising setup costs typically range from £10,000–£30,000 plus VAT, depending on the business model and sector.

Most UK businesses invest between £10,000–£30,000 to become franchise-ready. This covers franchise strategy, operations manuals, legal agreements, and marketing setup. Some sectors may require higher investment due to specialist training or compliance. You’ll also need a budget for franchisee recruitment marketing. Costs can be offset by charging franchise fees when your first partners join.

How do I know if my business is ready to franchise?

You’re franchise-ready if your UK business is profitable, proven, and has systems that can be replicated.

A franchise-ready UK business has traded successfully for at least 12–18 months, can demonstrate consistent profitability, and operates with documented systems that another person could follow. You should also have a clear brand identity, a strong market proposition, and resources to support new franchisees in their first year.

Do I need to join the British Franchise Association (BFA)?

No, but it can improve credibility and recruitment.

The BFA is the UK’s main body for ethical franchising. Membership is optional but involves an independent review of your model and legal agreements, which reassures potential franchisees. While not required, BFA affiliation can help attract high-quality applicants and position your brand as trustworthy.