The Path to Success: Franchise or Independent?
In the restoration sector, there has been an increase in the number of franchises and the number of independent companies that do not participate in third-party program work. Roth Construction, for example, is an independent firm that focuses on keeping jobs on budget and on time and pleasing customers one at a time. Another independent firm, Buffalo Restoration, attributes its success to building its brand and adhering to best practices and standards of care in its daily work. Meanwhile, franchises can offer restoration and cleaning professionals a brand that is already well recognized for quality service, just like ServiceMaster and SERVPRO. Independent firms find they have greater flexibility in making changes to their business plans, while franchise owners say a solid brand reputation is something that can be more easily maintained, but dues and royalties are costs that should be considered as part of expenses. Franchises also can share labor when a crisis happens, and they have greater buying power. Both independent and franchise owners say building the business requires focus and a plan, especially if margins are smaller and the labor market is tight. Both firms need to market their services and take the time to research business opportunities.