THE franchise market in Scotland created 4500 new jobs last year.
THE franchise market in Scotland created 4500 new jobs last year.
New figures show there are almost 3000 franchised firms across the country and that in 2007 the market grew by 7.1% - almost three times faster than the Scottish economy.
Scottish franchisees also claimed average turnover of £384,600 last year, £24,600 more than the UK average, in statistics released as Scottish Franchise Week begins in Glasgow today.
And organisers claim that buying a franchise rather than attempting to set up on your own is the more sensible option to self-employment.
Bill Hendrie of the Franchise Group for Scotland said: "We feel franchising is a more favourable way to start a business when you consider it has a much lower business failure rate than the general average.
"The research shows that franchising is still buoyant and the system model is a less risky way of starting and running a business than going out on your own.
"Only 14% of franchisees questioned in the study thought general economic conditions would improve over the next year and 68% said they believe conditions will worsen.
"However, in terms of expectations for their own businesses, 50% were optimistic conditions would improve over the next 12 months."
Franchising is where a person buys a licence to sell a product or service using the trademark of another business. Most McDonald's or Thornton's outlets are run in this way.
The franchise sector in Scotland has grown by more than 40% over the past 10 years and is now estimated to be worth £1.47billion thanks to franchises such as Curves gym, which has a facility at Mearns Castle Golf Academy, and Domino's pizza.
Scottish Franchise Week aims to introduce people to the opportunities available, with events including the British Franchise Association exhibition at Glasgow's SECC from Friday.
The same day, the city's Crowne Plaza hotel is hosting a business breakfast which is expected to attract 300 people to hear the likes of Au Naturale founder Ken Cairnduff and Andy Hirst of Domino's Pizza UK offer business tips.
Lisa Tobias, 27 runs four Domino's franchises in Ayr, Kilmarnock, Clydebank and Govan. She said: "I had so much support from head office that it didn't take long to build a successful business.
"That's what is so great about franchising. You have all the benefits of being your own boss, with the safety net of a recognised brand and strong internal management structure."
For more information visit scottishfranchiseweek.co.uk
