The Franchise MBA: Mastering the 4 Essential Steps to Owning a Franchise

This was just the right amount of coverage of what could have been a very dense topic. It's a step up from an introduction, but shy of an encyclopedia on the topic. The author frames the discussion from both sides of the equation -- the franchisor and the franchisee -- in support of his contention that this is not a sales process but a partnership marriage, which makes total sense as you read the book. I really appreciated the fact that he told me what "the other side" was looking for and thinking, and how to be sensitive to the concept of the other franchisees wanting to protect their investment by also playing a role in selecting franchisees with the franchisor. A solid coverage that includes discussions on financials, taxes, business structure, as well as motivations, attitudes, and personalities. Highly recommend this -- it's timeless. Don't let the publication date throw you off -- this book did not get sucked down into all sorts of analysis of different specific franchise options but instead focused on the meat of the issues in deciding whether to become a franchisee or not. Kudos to the author. Nicely done!

As a first edition, there were some gaps. I think the strongest sections of this book are in Steps 2 to 4. Which is really the core, to adequately prepare you to own a franchise. Step/Rock 2, 'Understanding the franchisor' covers the franchise business model and what franchisors are looking for in franchisees. Knowing both is important, as your franchise may face traditional (non franchised) models, and you will appreciate the leverage that you get (and thus, alleviate your concerns over franchise fees, both initial and recurring). Gaining a perspective of what they seek, positions you properly so that you develop the credibility and relationships as you investigate the business. Being too hard nosed, will not endear you, as ultimately, it's people working with people. Step/Rock 3, 'Understanding the franchisee', has some real nuggets of info, such as the six stages of franchise development (relationship with franchisor) and the transition curve (emotional stages). It made so much sense, that its like being forewarned is to be forearmed. I expect to refer to this book periodically as I start and grow my franchise business,

This book was a good read and does set the priorities for what to look for when shopping for a franchise. Its an easy read and provides a decent framework on what to look for and what to negotiate for. Your relationship side of the equation will need to utilize the information in this book when working with various parties in any franchise deal.

Although this book is written mainly for potential franchisees, I as a franchisor found it most helpful. Nick's book can be used for any business owner. The book is very concise with many helpful ideas. At the end of the book, there are only 2 conclusions that can be drawn. You either have the stuff to run a successful franchise or you don't. Nick makes the choices very clear. It is just as important to know when a business is not for you, and this book set's everything out very clearly so you can decide. This book is a MUST READ before venturing out into the Franchise world.

We read this book with great interest as were thinking to review franchising option for us. We finished reading this book in one day as the material of seventeen chapters was written from simple layman' s point of view. The author did a great job in navigating all steps of franchising. We had a pleasure working with the author as well. Nick and his book gave solid rock advice for us analyzing 4 essential steps to owning a business. Nick is a great person with great soul and his advice is conservative and rock solid. We recommend this book highly for any individual who wants to jump in franchising business. Meena and Jay Singh

It's a very good book. But tje graphs and charts are all messed up and unreadable in Kindle version:(

Having been part of a franchise system for nearly thirty years and an owner for twenty years, this book, BY FAR, is the best information ever published! Nick Neonakis cuts to the chase, addresses each and every issue, breaks the process down into baby steps and presents this most valuable information necessary to make the decision of franchising and how to pick your business partner. He weighs the pros and cons and gets inside of your head to assist in your choice considering lifestyle, income, geographics, demographics and exit plan. If you are really considering buying a franchise, get the workbook too!

I have read or skimmed almost every book out there on franchising. The Franchise MBA is the best by a very wide margin. Neonakis covers everything I wanted to know about searching for a franchise: understanding different franchise models, how to conduct due diligence, how to get bank financing, and all the legal and financial issues. Each chapter starts with a very engaging narrative story and the book is an easy read. It also explains the emotional and psychological issues in looking for a franchise. This is one of the top 10 business books I've ever read period, and easily the best 20 bucks I spent in my franchise search.

Auch für europäische Leser ein Muss, da die Checklisten umfangreich und wertvoll bei der Auswahl von Franchise-Betriebe sind. Damit kann das Risiko von Fehlkäufen deutlich reduziert werden.

This book has almost everything you need to know before you own a franchise and saves you from the mishaps that can possibly happen. Kve rates this book 4 star and not 5 as it doesn't have the framework of the financial model required to evaluate the franchise. Thanks.