New Publication Helps Consumers Learn All About Franchising

WASHINGTON, Dec. 14, 2010 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- A newly updated publication from the International Franchise Association Educational Foundation, Introduction to Franchising, provides prospective franchisees a comprehensive resource to help guide them through the process of owning their own business.

"Franchising allows people to go into business for themselves, but not by themselves," said IFA Educational Foundation President John Reynolds, CFE.  "But there are many issues that should be considered before determining if owning a franchise business is the right choice.   Introduction to Franchising explains the advantages and disadvantages of the franchise model and covers basic information about franchising to help prospective buyers through the process."

The publication, recently updated to include the latest information about franchising, is sponsored by PEPSICO Foodservice and includes general information about franchising, including descriptions of the different kinds of franchises, the legal aspects to consider, details about the Franchise Disclosure Document, how to begin a search for the right franchise, cost considerations, and a guide to determine if franchising is right for you.  

The updated Introduction to Franchising can be found at IFA's enhanced Web site www.franchise.org, that also provides comprehensive information about franchising for the public.  In addition, visitors to www.franchise.org can find detailed company information about IFA members and the bi-annual Franchise Opportunities Guide published by the IFA offers basic information about franchising and IFA member companies.  Prospective franchisees can meet face to face with franchise companies by attending the Franchise Expo South, Jan. 14-16, 2011 in Miami.  Dates and locations of other exposition scheduled for 2011 can be found at www.franchise.org.

About the International Franchise Association:

The International Franchise Association is the world's oldest and largest organization representing franchising worldwide. Celebrating 50 years of excellence, education and advocacy, IFA protects, enhances and promotes franchising through government relations, public relations and educational programs. Through its awareness campaign highlighting the theme, Franchising: Building Local Businesses, One Opportunity at a Time, IFA promotes the 21 million jobs and $2.3 trillion of economic activity generated by franchising. IFA members include franchise companies in over 90 different business format categories, individual franchisees and companies that support the industry in marketing, law and business development.

SOURCE International Franchise Association