Despite it’s popularity myths about franchising are still a deterrent for some potential franchisees and franchisors.

Franchising is a great way to grow a business and a powerful route into self-employment. According to the 2024 National Franchise Survey, the franchise industry contributes £19.1 billion to the UK economy. The same survey also revealed that 89% of franchise units are profitable. However, franchising still gets a bad rap. Many of the assumptions made around it are outdated and inflated.

Let’s debunk some of the biggest myths about franchising…

❌ Myth 1: “Franchising is just for big American fast-food chains.”

✅ Truth: While names like McDonald’s and Subway might come to mind first, the franchise sector is incredibly diverse – and very much local.

From children’s tutoring to dog walking and gym chains to artisan coffee shops, more than 1000 franchise systems operate in the UK (according to the 2024 National Franchise Survey). Many of them are small businesses that have successfully scaled through franchising, and others are just getting started.

❌ Myth 2: “You need loads of money to buy a franchise.”

✅ Truth: Not necessarily.

While some franchise opportunities require significant investments, many successful franchises can be started for under £20,000 – some even less. These often include home-based or mobile franchises in sectors like care, cleaning, coaching, or fitness.

Additionally, banks in the UK are often more willing to lend to franchisees than to independent start-ups, due to the proven business model.

❌ Myth 3: “Franchising is a scam or pyramid scheme.”

✅ Truth: Franchising is a legally recognised business model in the UK, governed by standard commercial and contract law. While there’s no franchise-specific legislation, the British Franchise Association (BFA) sets widely recognised standards for ethical franchising.

A legitimate franchise offers:

• A proven business model
• Initial and ongoing support
• A brand with market presence
• Training and systems to help you succeed

Yes, you need to do your due diligence. However, when you work with reputable franchisors – ideally those affiliated with the British Franchise Association (BFA) – you have the peace of mind that it is a structured and ethical business model.

❌ Myth 4: “You’re not your own boss as a franchisee.”

✅ Truth: Franchisees do run their own businesses – but within a supportive framework.

You have independence over your day-to-day operations, team, and goals while benefiting from an established brand, guidance, and marketing support.

Think of it as being in business for yourself, but not by yourself.

❌ Myth 5: “Franchising is only for people who’ve run a business before.”

✅ Truth: Most franchisees in the UK are first-time business owners.

One of the biggest advantages of joining a franchise is that it comes with built-in training and support – designed specifically to help people with limited experience succeed. If you’re motivated, committed, and willing to learn, franchising could be your ideal route into business ownership.

❌ Myth 6: “You need to be in London or a major city to succeed.”

✅ Truth: Franchises can thrive just as well in local towns, villages, and suburbs.

Many successful UK franchisees operate in rural areas or regional towns. In fact, some models are specifically designed to work in non-urban locations – especially service-based or mobile franchises.

Final Word

Franchising isn’t a shortcut or a guarantee  – it’s a smart way to start or grow a business with a proven model, expert support, and a recognised brand. But don’t let myths about franchising hold you back from exploring what it could offer you.

At Ashtons Franchise Consulting, we’ve helped hundreds of UK businesses develop successful franchise models.

Do you have questions about franchising? Let’s talk.

Or watch this space for more insights as we lead up to World Franchise Day.

Franchising enables businesses to grow with consistency, resilience, and local ownership. For founders, it’s a chance to scale sustainably. For franchisees, it offers the freedom of running your own business –  with the support of a proven model. World Franchise Day is a timely reminder of the impact this model continues to have.