You’ve got the funding, and you’re finally ready to launch your own business. The one lingering question that remains is whether you should open a franchise or an independent shop. There are pros and cons to both sides, but you’ll need the following points to help you decide which decision is right for your situation.
An Established Brand. Brand recognition is incredibly motivating for shoppers.… Read More

Franchise Vs. Mom-and-Pop Business: A Guide to Smart Investment

Mayans Under Investigation! World Doesn’t End!
According to some interpreters of the Mayan calendar, the world was supposed to end December 21st 2012. We wonder if they were somehow disappointed when they woke up the next morning and discovered that their plans fell through.
Seems like every ten years there’s a new doomsday scenario grabbing the headlines and pandering to our natural survival instincts. Whether it’s a calendar, comet, or polar shift, the planet… Read More

Kindred Spirits, Fellow Travelers, and Strategic Partners
One of the most effective and often over-looked resources to build and grow your business is strategic alliances. “Partnerships” with other businesses and organizations who benefit by your success can help you meet your bills, get the word out about your company, and improve your image.
Who succeeds if you succeed? As your business begins to grow and gain traction, you may find new allies you didn’t know you… Read More

A Solid Business Foundation is Necessary for Success
When you build a house, the foundation must be laid strong and straight. If it’s not, the framers try to make up for it. When they can’t, the drywall guys try to make up for it. When they can’t, the painters try to make up for it. When they can’t, you’re going to have to live with it. So rather than cause problems all the way up your structure, lay your foundations straight and true.
It’s been said that it’s not the… Read More

The Advantages of Being a Small Start-Up – Part 3
In this series we have examined some of the powerful advantages of being small, undercapitalized and able to turn on a dime.
These days, with lawyers running the big corporations either in fact or in fear, more and more truly game changing concepts are coming