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The MUMBO Disconnect: Why Enterprise Operators Skip Investing in Your Franchise Brand

You built a successful franchise, but if multi-unit, multi-brand operators (MUMBOs) aren’t lining up, your marketing isn’t speaking their language. Here’s what’s missing. The Missed Opportunity in Modern Franchise Development In today’s franchise world, everyone is chasing the same high-value target:Multi-Unit, Multi-Brand Operators, also known as MUMBOs. These sophisticated investors bring capital, infrastructure, and growth…

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Bar Louie Files for Chapter 11 Bankruptcy, Closing Locations Amid Financial Struggles

Gastropub operator Bar Louie filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection on March 26, 2025, marking its second restructuring in five years as persistent inflation and operational challenges continue to batter the restaurant industry. BLH TopCo LLC, the Addison, Texas-based parent of the Bar Louie brand, filed the voluntary petitions in U.S. Bankruptcy Court in Delaware,…

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Franchise Sales AI Agents: Essential Compliance Practices for Responsible Franchisors

Franchise Sales AI Agents: Essential Compliance Practices for Responsible Franchisors By Joe Caruso Artificial intelligence (AI) promises powerful advantages for franchise sales teams, automating outreach, scheduling appointments, and accelerating lead generation. Yet a critical question remains largely unexplored by franchisors and franchise attorneys alike: Are AI agents reliably safe for franchisors from a compliance standpoint?…

The Shiny Object Trap: Why New Leads Distract Your Franchise Sales Team

By Joe Caruso Every franchise sales team experiences the allure: fresh inbox leads, trade show badge scans, and new prospects seem to sparkle brighter and promise more than the leads you’ve already nurtured. It’s a pervasive challenge I’ve witnessed repeatedly as a Chief Development Officer, and it’s crucial we address it head-on. The Psychology Behind…

The Earnest Franchisor: Why Operational Standards and Support Define Success

The Illusion of Readiness in Startup Franchising Too many emerging franchisors scrape together just enough capital to draft a Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD). In doing so, they assemble a bare-bones operations manual that is often little more than a glorified table of contents. The problem is these documents are rarely tested, refined, or structured to…

The Passive Absentee Franchise Ownership Myth: What Franchisors and Investors Need to Know

Franchising gets sold as a shortcut to business ownership. You’re told you’re buying into a brand with recognition, a built-in system, and the franchisor’s team to help. But here’s the reality. Most franchises aren’t brands yet. They’re businesses trying to become brands. If a franchise has fewer than 100 units scattered all over or is…

From Good to Great Franchise Recruitment: A Guide to Managed Sales Enablement & Discipline

By Joe Caruso Why Most Franchise Recruitment Efforts Fall Short Many franchisors struggle with franchise recruitment, despite having a strong concept, proven systems, and even a well-funded growth strategy. They generate leads, but few turn into serious buyers. They spend time and resources on franchise brokers or FSOs, but the results are inconsistent. They deal…

Are Franchise Fees an Investment or a Tax? The Real Measure of Support

Are Franchise Fees an Investment or a Tax? The Real Measure of Support By Joe Caruso Franchise systems charge royalties and marketing fees as part of their business model. These fees vary widely depending on the brand, industry, and level of support promised. However, the real question isn’t whether franchisors are providing enough support. It…

Franchising Done Right: Why Most New Franchisors Fail and How to Avoid It

Franchising Done Right: Why Most New Franchisors Fail and How to Avoid It You have a great concept. You have opened three or four brick-and-mortar locations, and the numbers look good. You have even taken the next big step: you got an FDD (Franchise Disclosure Document). Now, you are ready to scale. After all, if…

Mastering Franchise Expansion: Choosing Single-Unit, Multi-Unit, or Enterprise Multi-Unit Models

Mastering Franchise Expansion: Choosing Single-Unit, Multi-Unit, or Enterprise Multi-Unit Models By Joe Caruso Franchising isn’t about fitting square pegs into round holes. It’s about strategy, precision, and finding the right people who align with your brand’s vision and values. This is where Ned Lyerly, Michael Webster and I at Franchise Info bring our expertise to…

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AI and Franchise Sales: Driving Smarter Decisions, Avoiding Costly Errors

How franchisors can leverage AI to enhance sales processes while mitigating risks The rise of AI and automation is reshaping industries worldwide, and franchising is no exception. From lead generation to candidate engagement, the potential for efficiency and scale is immense. However, the promise of AI often blurs the distinction between meaningful investments and tools…

The Price of Poor Preparation: Why U.S. Franchising & Brand Expansion Demands Market Readiness
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The Price of Poor Preparation: Why U.S. Franchising & Brand Expansion Demands Market Readiness

Unlocking Opportunities in the U.S. Market Expanding into the U.S. market is a transformative opportunity for franchisors, offering access to one of the world’s largest and most dynamic economies. However, entering this competitive landscape requires a thoughtful approach that balances vision, strategy, and execution. This guide provides a comprehensive roadmap for international and domestic franchisors…

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Selecting the Right Advisors: Best Practices for Aspiring and Established Franchisors

Franchising is a powerful model for growth, but building a successful franchise brand whether in the U.S. or internationally—requires more than just ambition. It demands guidance from seasoned professionals who know the ins and outs of franchising. Whether you’re an established franchisor looking to refine your system or an aspiring franchisor preparing to launch, finding…

Site Selection for Restaurant Multi Unit Operators

Site Selection for Restaurant Multi Unit Operators

A Disciplined Approach to Site Selection  Farmer Boys’ real estate philosophy is rooted in discipline and precision. Unlike some brands that rush to open locations, Farmer Boys takes the time to ensure every site meets stringent criteria. Factors like visibility, accessibility, and demographic alignment are meticulously analyzed to ensure a location’s viability.  Joseph, a corporate…

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