Franchise Resources
The following franchise resources will provide you with additional franchise information and guidance as you search for your perfect franchise or business opportunity. Good luck with your research!
Associations
IFA - The International Franchise Association
This organization has been around for nearly 50 years and exists to promote, protect, and enhance the use of franchising business practices.
The American Association of Franchisees & Dealers
The AAFD is a non-profit trade association that aims to both define and promote Total Quality Franchising practices on a national level, offering membership benefits and tips for buying franchises.
The American Franchisee Association
Made on the initiative of the US House of Representatives Committee on Small Business in 1992, this group supplies resources, networking, tips, and advice for those interested in franchising.
The National Association for the Self-Employed
A resource and help center for all things entrepreneurial, NASE provides support, benefits, and consolidated buying power.
The National Business Association
The NBA uses its consolidated buying power to aid its members with a variety of business products and useful tools.
Companies
Franchise Research at ResearchForSale.com
Extensive current and past list of Franchise Disclosure Documents (FDDs) for thousands of franchises at ResearchForSale.com
FranchiseDisclosureDocuments.net
Another site which lists thousands of franchise disclosure documents available for download.
Frandata is a research firm that provides objective information about franchising. They collect in-depth data such as the number of units that have closed, the number of SBA loans that have failed, and other valuable information.
Publications
A weekly publication with a focus on both politics and business news, Economist offers free online viewing for many articles, past and present.
A highly recognized resource for business information with podcasts, business weblogs, and various useful resources pertaining to franchising.
Provides business and financial news. Their entrepreneurial section is useful for potential franchisees.
The WSJ has an online center for franchising that gives expert advice and helps potential franchisees look out for serious pitfalls.
Reports
Franchise Disclosure Documents
The FDD is the single most important document for individuals researching franchises. It contains 23 federally mandated items. FranchiseGenius.com provides access to 20,000+ FDDs.