Should You Buy an Owner-Operator Franchise?
May 12, 2021 - Blog by Goldstein Law Firm |Franchises come in all shapes and sizes. While some franchises require franchisees to invest in a retail location and hire multiple employees, others allow franchisees to act as owner-operators. These franchisees not only manage their businesses, but they also run their businesses on the ground. Known as owner-operators, these franchisees do almost everything on their own—from ordering and managing inventory and supplies to conducting sales and providing services to customers.
Building Fairness in Franchising: A Look Ahead to Possible Reform
Apr 30, 2021 - Blog by Goldstein Law Firm |Unfairness in the franchise relationship is among the key factors that lead to franchisee failures. Without the information, support and legal protections they need, franchisees can struggle to earn a reasonable profit, and they can face substantial losses when their franchises fail. A recent congressional report discusses potential solutions to the current unfairness in franchising—including what franchisors, federal regulators and state authorities can do to help protect franchisees. Here, franchise lawyer Jeffrey M. Goldstein summarizes some of the most notable recommendations from the report:
Four Factors that Lead to Franchise Failure: Congressional Report
Apr 28, 2021 - Blog by Goldstein Law Firm |In April 2021, the Office of Nevada Senator Catherine Cortez Masto released a report titled, Strategies to Improve the Franchise Model: Preventing Unfair and Deceptive Franchise Practices. The report provides a detailed look at the current state of franchise regulation in the United States and offers suggestions for what state and federal authorities can do to improve protections for franchisees.
Are These Franchise Industries Poised for Post-Pandemic Success?
Apr 23, 2021 - Blog by Goldstein Law Firm |It is no secret that the economic impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic have hit franchising particularly hard. Many franchises who were already struggling to turn a profit while paying their royalties and marketing fund contributions saw their revenue drop substantially, and many went out of business as a result. Among those who survived, long-term outlooks vary, and a significant amount of uncertainty remains.
FranConnect Data Show Economic Impacts of COVID-19 on Franchising
Apr 16, 2021 - Blog by Goldstein Law Firm |FranConnect, a well-known franchise management software provider, recently released a report detailing the economic impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on the franchise industry. The report is available for download, and the International Franchise Association (IFA) has summarized some notable data from the report on its website. Here, franchise attorney Jeffrey M. Goldstein shares his thoughts on some of the key figures and what they might mean for current and prospective franchisees.
3 Important Legal Considerations for Buying a Kid-Focused Franchise
Apr 9, 2021 - Blog by Goldstein Law Firm |A recent article in the Franchise Times highlights some kid-focused franchises that are “tap[ping] into youth activity demand” during the COVID-19 pandemic. The article discusses how the impacts of the pandemic on children have resulted in an increased demand among parents for organized, educational, enriching and fun activities outside of school. If you are thinking about buying a kid-focused franchise, here are three important legal considerations to keep in mind from franchisee lawyer Jeffrey M. Goldstein:
Should You Buy a Virtual Restaurant Franchise in 2021?
Apr 2, 2021 - Blog by Goldstein Law Firm |Living with the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic has conditioned many people to do things from home. From working to shopping to watching newly-released movies, many Americans have fully adjusted to doing everything from the comfort of their couch or dining table. As a result, many retail businesses are still struggling as restrictions begin to lift, and this includes fast-casual and sit-down restaurants.
7 Options for Financing Your First Franchise
Mar 31, 2021 - Blog by Goldstein Law Firm |Buying a franchise is a bigger investment than most people can afford on their own. Fortunately, there are a variety of financing options available. However, each of these options comes with certain risks and limitations, and prospective franchisees must think carefully about which option makes the most sense for their individual circumstances. An experienced franchisee lawyer can help you make an informed decision when it comes to choosing between options including:
7 Commonly-Overlooked Issues in the Franchise Agreement
Mar 29, 2021 - Blog by Goldstein Law Firm |When buying a franchise, one of the most important steps in the due diligence process is to carefully review the franchise agreement. The franchise agreement governs the terms of the relationship, and it covers everything from the opening deadline to the franchisee’s obligations post-termination. Given the importance of the franchise agreement – in addition to its density and complexity – the best way to ensure that you understand its terms is to hire a franchise lawyer to review it for you.
5 Franchise Agreement Provisions that Require Careful Consideration in the Wake of the Pandemic
Mar 24, 2021 - Blog by Goldstein Law Firm |The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted the franchise industry in unprecedented ways. In addition to fundamentally changing the way that many franchisors and franchisees operate, the pandemic has heavily influenced franchise agreement negotiations. Here, franchise attorney Jeffrey M. Goldstein discusses five franchise agreement provisions that require careful consideration in the wake of the pandemic:
