Some entrepreneurs starting a new business will choose to purchase a franchise.  They believe that relationship will assure their success since the franchise has the wisdom and experience they lack as new business owners.

    Well that seems to make sense, but have you noticed how many "franchised" businesses are going out of business these days?  Over the 20 years I have been in business I have heard time and time again from fellow business owners that were involved in franchises how awful the relationship was.  Those business owners are often forced by contract to buy their supplies from the franchising company, even if those supplies are inferior and/or overpriced.  They often cannot add a service or product without the blessing of the franchise company.  Simply put, franchisees are often unable to make many business decisions that may be necessary to stay competitive in a changing environment.  In my opinion, many franchisees are more like "employees" than business owners.  Keep in mind, it is your investment that is at risk not theirs. If your business fails, you lose everything, they simply sell another franchise to someone else.  From that perspective, they actually benefit from your failure.  

   Certainly not all franchises are bad.  The problem is that too many franchises are more focused on their success than yours.  If you choose to purchase a franchise be sure to read the fine print of all documents. Make sure your relationship will allow you the flexibility to react to changing market conditions by making day to day decisions.