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A Beginner’s Guide to Buying a Restaurant Franchise

Written By Radha Mathur 19 Aug 2022
A Beginner’s Guide to Buying a Restaurant Franchise

Imagine a world with more than three Burgers n' Fries Forever locations…🌈

Are your eyes and mouth watering?

We’re making that dream a reality with a franchising deal. Soon, you’ll be able to open your own BFF franchise, bringing better burgers n’ fries to hungry folks. Hey, not all heroes wear capes. In this case, they wear BFF uniforms.

Whether you want to open your own BFF or learn about buying a franchise in general,  we'll walk you through everything you need to know– from how it works to the pros and cons.

What does it mean to buy a franchise?

As the franchisee, you're buying the right to use an existing business model and brand. You pay fees and royalties to the franchisor and get to use their trademarks, processes, and systems.

Let's put it in simpler terms. If it's your first time cooking a dish, it's easier to use a recipe than wing it, right? Think of the franchise you're buying as the recipe– if you use the right ingredients and follow the listed steps, a delicious outcome is likely. 

Unless you can’t even make toast; in which case, no one can help you.

What are the benefits of becoming a franchisee?

There are plenty of good reasons to buy a franchise. First off, you can't spell franchise without "fran" (as in bestfrannnn forever). But, also:

Lower risk

The risk of buying a restaurant franchise is pretty low when compared to starting a business from scratch. Many franchises are owned by corporations who've tested the business model in different markets. So, you're joining a successful brand that's built a supportive franchise network. This might make it easier to get a loan and launch your business. See: the bad analogy about the recipe we told you just now.

Training and support

Franchisors offer training and support programs, which are useful for first-time business owners. You might even be able to give the franchisor a call (or, let's be real, send them a text) when you have questions. Think of them as that Hollywood-inspired coach you wish you had.

Loyal customers

Finding loyal customers is one of the hardest parts of opening a restaurant. When you open a franchise, customers are likelier to be familiar with the brand and excited to stop by. Think about it– you don’t usually crave food you've never tasted. 

P.S. What's more crave-able than a burger n' fries?

Be your own boss

We've all had dreams of being our own boss. After watching too much Food Network, you might fantasize about storming into a kitchen and telling everyone they're doing everything wrong. Okay, it might be best to keep the latter fantasy in your head, but the point is that buying a franchise is a great way to fulfill your vision without the stress of being out there on your own.

How about the cons?

If you want complete control over your business, buying a franchise probably isn't the right move for you. The franchisor will want to make sure there's a consistent brand identity. Depending on your agreement, the franchisor might control:

  • Location
  • Hours
  • Holidays
  • Pricing
  • Decor
  • Advertising and Marketing
  • Layout

So, yeah, if Gordon Ramsay really is your idol, best to branch out on your own.

Which franchise should you buy?

Our number one tip is to pick an establishment that rhymes with Shurgers n' Shries Shorever. 

🤣 Jokes, jokes.

Before picking a franchise, it's a good idea to create a budget that covers the upfront costs. The last thing you want is financial struggles from the get-go. You also want to pick a restaurant that matches your interests. Any restaurant owner will tell you passion is a key ingredient for a successful spot.

How does the process even work?

Here's a brief step-by-step overview.

  1. Get out your calculator and budget like it's an Olympic sport
  2. Pick a restaurant that matches your interests 🙋🏻‍♀️
  3. Apply to the winning franchise
  4. Go for an interview (pro tip: bring a scented resume like Elle Woods)
  5. Make it official and sign a contract with the franchisor
  6. Train with the franchisor (*Picture Rocky climbing the staircase*)
  7. Time to fry! But first, build your team, order supplies, and set up the kitchen and dining area

Franchise With BFF

By October 2022, we’ll start franchising, with new locations opening by 2023. Over the next couple of years, we plan to grow from three to ten BFF locations 💥.

BFF franchising support will include:

  • Hands-on training at an existing BFF location
  • Virtual learning and training videos
  • Marketing and advertising support
  • Real estate site selection
  • Lease negotiations
  • Full turnkey operation
  • Staff hiring and Training
  • Operational support

Keep an eye on our website and socials for more about how to franchise with BFF comin’ at you real soon.

Franchising is a big decision. Do your homework, make your budget, and grow your appetite and your team. When you're ready to take the plunge, we'll be here waiting with open arms, and stacks of burgers.

 

BFF isn’t your typical burger n’ fries joint. Our food helps to remove barriers and unite people from different backgrounds over memorable and nostalgic flavors. With quality ingredients and creative combos, we aim to be your (tastebuds’) BFF.  Stop by one of our locations in Ottawa or Toronto.

Order takeout or delivery directly through our website, and tag us in pics of your fave BFF foods @burgersnfriesforever.