What does a franchise consultant do? UK guide

A franchise consultant advises businesses on franchising, covering strategy, legal preparation, operations, and recruitment. In the UK, they help create a compliant, scalable model and support both franchisors and franchisees through launch and growth.

In practice, a UK franchise consultant starts by assessing if the business can be franchised. They design the commercial model, write operations manuals, coordinate legal agreements, and create marketing plans to recruit the right franchisees. Many also help manage resales, train franchisees, and optimise systems for scalability.

UK franchise consultants typically charge £850–£1,200 per day or fixed-price packages from £5,000 to £25,000, depending on the scope. Costs vary by complexity, sector, and whether support is hands-on or advisory.

A small service-based franchise might only need light-touch guidance and a few key documents. A multi-site management franchise could require full systems build-out, branding, legal coordination, and franchisee recruitment support. Most consultants offer staged plans to spread the cost as the brand grows.

No, it’s not legally required, but most UK franchisors use one to avoid costly mistakes and accelerate launch.

Franchising involves commercial modelling, brand IP protection, operations manuals, legal agreements, and recruitment marketing. Without specialist guidance, brands risk compliance issues, poor franchisee fit, or unscalable systems. A good consultant brings tested frameworks and industry contacts, saving time and avoiding missteps.

With a dedicated consultant, most UK businesses are franchise-ready within 3–6 months. Complex or regulated sectors may take 9–12 months.

Timeframes depend on readiness — a business with strong systems and brand clarity will move faster. The process includes feasibility, model design, operations documentation, legal drafting, and marketing preparation. Consultants often run a pilot franchise before full rollout, adding extra months but improving long-term success.

Look for UK-specific experience, a proven track record in your sector, and real-world franchising credentials.

The best consultants have owned or run franchise networks themselves, not just advised them. Check for client case studies, BFA membership, and a clear, staged process. They should tailor advice to your model, not use generic templates. Ask for references and see if they can connect you with past clients.

Yes, many offer franchisee recruitment services alongside setup.

Recruitment support can include marketing campaigns, lead qualification, discovery days, and prospect follow-up. A consultant with marketing expertise and sector networks will find higher-quality franchisees faster. Some also handle franchise resales, which keeps your network healthy and attracts investor interest.

Most work across multiple sectors, but many specialise in areas like fitness, early years, leisure, food, and service-based brands.

Specialist knowledge matters — sector experience means they understand customer acquisition, operational challenges, and compliance issues specific to your industry. This leads to a franchise model that is more commercially viable and easier to scale.