Franchisor: a good partner?IntroductionBuying a franchise business is a very serious decision for any businessman. When you join a franchise, you can be almost assured that the goods and services you sell will be recognized almost instantly. Franchise buyers also receive training and support from a proven business model designed to help the franchise owner succeed. Even though there is a proven business model, purchasing a franchise is still risky and there is no guarantee of success. Purchasing a franchise is an investment, and like most investments, there is a risk that the business owner will lose money on their investment. This research paper will examine the ins and outs of business franchises. A definition of franchise structure will be examined, providing brief examples of two very large franchises: McDonalds and Starbucks. In conclusion, the benefits, costs and obligations of franchise ownership will be presented (SmallBusiness.com). What is deductible? Business franchises have been around for a very long time. Franchising actually began shortly after World War I with car dealerships and gas stations. There are currently a wide variety of examples of franchises, and they are mainly in the food, service and retail sectors (Franchises – introduction, 2010, 1). When an investor buys a franchise, they are using another company's successful business model. The word franc means free (Anglo-French derivative) (Vines, Krakus and Satterlee, 2010). The businessman who purchases the franchise business from the franchisor is responsible for continuing to ensure the success of the product. You represent the franchisor and their success is your success. It therefore has a...... middle of paper...... C, & Boulter, RS (Wntr 2010). The modern reality of the controlling franchisor: the case for more, not fewer, protections for franchisees. Journal of Franchise Law, 29, 3. p.139(9)Obringer, Lee Ann. (2011). “How Franchising Works.” 1-7.http://www.howstuffworks.com/franchising.htm/printableSeid, M. and Thomas D. (2006). Franchise for dummies. For dummies; 2 editionShane, SA (2005). From Ice Cream to the Internet: Using Franchising to Drive Your Business' Growth and Profits. FT Press.SmallBusiness.com: Buy a franchise. (2011).http://smallbusiness.com/wiki/Buying_a_franchise “Starbucks Franchise Success Story”. (2011).http://www.franchiseprospector.com/franchising-trends-starbucks.phpVines, LD, Krakus, B. and Satterlee, K. (Fall 2010). Split exemption from franchise: friend or foe? Franchise Law Review, 30, 2. p.72(16).