Franchising for the small businessman

Recent research concluded by FRAIN franchise census 2004, commissioned by the NAMAC Trust, highlights that small business owners are more likely to succeed on the back of franchise opportunities than purely on their own. Entering on the back of an existing business structure provides a business owner a support structure not afforded to them when 'going it alone'.

Simon Robinson, director of the Franchise and Business Opportunities Expo (FBOE), says more than 12% of retail sales made in South Africa today are done through franchises, a number which is climbing year on year as the South African market matures into a more consumer orientated one, concerned with the purchase of known brands.

According to the FRAIN report more that 232 489 people are currently employed at franchises, with a culture spread of 59.56% black, 30.37% white and 4.84% Indian and Coloured. These figures prove once again that smaller businesses continue to be quicker and more effective at embracing change.

Robinson says franchising on the whole is a realistic and sustainable economic growth mechanism for the entire African continent and countries outside of South Africa which are currently expanding and embracing this market include Botswana, Namibia, Swaziland, Zimbabwe, Lesotho, Mozambique, Nigeria and Kenya: "The growth of franchises has in some instances outstripped traditional industry. In South Africa this can be seen through the contribution it has made to the GDP of the country, contributing more than 10.7% in the 2004 period.

In addition to the Expo, Succeed Magazine will be hosting a speakers corner where it will cover topics such as: How to start your own business; How to franchise your business; How to select a franchise; How to access finance, Franchise site selection; and BEE guidelines for the franchising industry.

The concurrent expo is the Eskom Small Business Development Expo. In line with government's empowerment objectives, this expo provides opportunities for more than 100 previously disadvantaged small, micro and medium enterprises and entrepreneurs (SMME) to showcase their goods and services.

The prime objective of both expos is to stimulate the growth of businesses, economic prosperity and entrepreneurial spirit in South Africa. Entrance to the exhibition is R20 per person, but registering on-line at www.fboe.co.za before 25 August gains you free entrance.

Companies interested in exhibiting or visiting should contact Clair Bowman or Ian Gersun on +27 11 549 8300 or visit the website www.fboe.co.za.