International franchising involves far more than American-based monoliths such as Coca-Cola peddling soda pop through franchisees in 200 nations, or KFC selling meals in 80 countries, or General Motors establishing “master franchise” arrangements in 192 nations.

Most of the international franchises show on a smaller percentage, with countries in the global economy exporting as well as importing.

The International Franchise Association reports that the U.S.-based Arthur Andersen accounting firm, before it closed, surveyed national franchise associations in 39 countries. These associations were asked to name the number of franchisors (parent companies) and franchisees (local stores) in each country, their country’s total domestic retail volume, and the percentage of the volume that involved franchising.

The results of the survey found that growth potential for franchising worldwide is growing exponentially. “The global market is far from saturation” said Leonard Swartz who, at the time of the survey , was Arthur Andersen’s worldwide managing director of franchise services.

The franchising giants have their special niches and are entrenched in dominance. Coca-Cola sends a syrup concentrate to franchise bottlers because it can’t ship such a volume of whole bottles and cans. KFC still relies on its “11 herbs and spices” secret recipe for franchises from Argentina to China and across the globe. General Motors has franchises that deal not only in vehicle sales, but also in vehicle financing and in real estate.

Kentucky Fried Chicken is a franchising brand owned by Yum! Brands Inc. Others are Taco Bell, Pizza Hut, Long John Silver’s and A&W. This is the reason for these fast-food franchise brands always being clustered together.

But keep in mind that in all countries across the planet, the main economic engines are small businesses, including small franchises. People want more than sodas, fast food and cars.

For example, there is a hunger worldwide for improved education. An American art teacher, Bette Fedder, started a drawing school in her Midwest home. She then compiled a curriculum and began to recruit franchise operators. Young Rembrants now has franchises across the country and in South Korea, with plans to expand internationally. Other after-school tutoring companies have franchises that focus on general education, writing, science and math.

The global economy may be rooted in the World Wide Web, but it also means that more packages than ever are shipped internationally. The big boys such as UPS may dominate, but there also are smaller companies involved. P.A.S.S. Shipping and Handling has 800 franchise stores around the world.

Benefits and cost of Franchises:You’ll have to pay a one-time upfront franchise fee to the franchisor.*You may also have a royalty contribution as a percentage of monthly gross sales.Advertising contribution to the parent company.

Once you’re a franchise owner, all the franchisor wants is for you to succeed Once you qualify, you will receive continual, valuable support and advice.

If you are seeking a franchising opportunity, be careful about companies that describe themselves as “fast growing” as growth can indicate that a company is moving toward success, but can also indicate a growth is too fast and that the company is allowing too many new franchises at once. Look for a franchise with consistent and steady growth.

A sampling of other international franchising opportunities includes computer technology, cleaning products and services, home health care, home improvement, health and beauty, sports and recreation, travel and hotel. Those are just a few.

Ariel Dess specializes in assisting companies successfully trade with Latin America. To access to his valuable resources, tips and links, click here importers

Tags: business, Business Opportunities, export, Franchise, franchise advice, franchise tips, import, International Franchise, International Trade, Sales and Selling, trade, world franchise

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