However, another important source of support, which can often be overlooked in the research process, are the other franchisees in the network.

Being able to share knowledge and experiences with other franchisees can be extremely valuable so it is well worth finding out whether there is a network or communication system in place to enable this to happen.

From the franchisor’s perspective, first hand feedback from their franchisees at the front line of customer care and product or service delivery, is vital for maintaining high levels of both. The invention of McDonald’s famous ‘Big Mac’ burger was the idea of a McDonald’s franchisee.

“Tapping into the experiences and knowledge of franchisees in the existing network is useful for sharing best practice,” said Dan Archer, head of marketing at the bfa.

“Franchisors are recognising the value of this and keen to implement the means of encouraging it in the form of annual or regional conferences, online discussion forums, or as part of a formal franchisee association,” he said.

Helen O’Grady Drama Academy franchisees Claire Keppie and Glyn Owen are joint principals of the Lothian and Borders Academy. They find networking opportunities with other franchisees extremely useful.

Mr Owen said, “We go to three seminars every year to discuss business issues and the future curriculum, which we find inspirational. We are all so empowered by the work that we do and are desperate to share our stories and meet up with the rest of out network.”

Contact with other franchisees can also help to boost motivation and inspiration throughout the network. Research from the bfa suggests that those who are self-employed are almost twice as happy as those in employment, which may well become evident during meetings of franchisee who work in ethical franchise systems.

The bfa also recognises the importance of franchisee feedback for the industry itself, and for some time has had a dedicated Franchisee Forum, where franchisee representatives from elected Board Member organisations regularly meet.

The Forum’s work is vital in ensuring that franchisees have a voice in the sector and that its members are positioned to contribute to balanced debate. In the bfa's role of protecting and promoting franchising as a method of growing enterprises, the Forum serves as one of the pillars of the organisation's activity.

Mr Archer added: “The huge diversity of experience and practical knowledge that comes from running their own business has made the franchisees’ contribution make to the Forum invaluable.

“Through the Forum, members have been able to contribute to the growth and development of franchising, while franchisees have shown that they tackle issues with knowledge and a sensitivity to the position that they and their peers occupy.”

For more information on franchising visit www.thebfa.org.