10 Ways Franchisees Can Grow Their Sales

by Ed Teixeira

A major reason people buy a franchise is to own a business with a proven operating and marketing system, a recognized brand and support services. Despite these features, the individual franchisee is responsible for growing his business. Here are 10 ways franchisees can increase their sales at the local level.

When a person purchases a franchise there is a certain level of expectation. This stems from the fact that the success of franchising is based in great measure from the ability to provide the franchisee a “cookie-cutter” or packaged system for operating their franchise.

Franchisees return from training with great anticipation to launch their new franchise. Whether it’s a grand opening or an initial marketing campaign the franchisee is excited and motivated. However, once the ribbons come down and a month or so passes, the franchisee is on their own. This doesn’t mean that the franchisor doesn’t provide services or support but rather it’s the franchisee that’s ultimately responsible for operation of their franchise.

Since the franchisee must market and develop their territory for sales, it’s important to use every resource and strategy available to generate sales... Whether you’re a start-up or exiting franchisee these 10 sales building tips should help.

Here are 10 ways to grow sales:

1.  Know your competition and their strengths and weaknesses. It’s very important to know who you’re competing with. This information is useful in developing your marketing plan. Don’t take this matter lightly.
2. Write a marketing plan, implement the marketing plan and measure the results. It’s important to put together a list of certain objectives you want to accomplish. You don’t need a sophisticated document. An outline with some action items, costs and objectives will work fine.
3. Get your franchise started as quickly as possible. Try to lay the groundwork for your franchise so that you can get off to a quick launch. If possible, pre-sell and distribute business cards and literature prior to opening for business.
4. Join the Chamber of Commerce, Rotary Club and local trade groups or associations in your area. This is a way to publicize your business and find business owners you could network with. Volunteer to serve on a committee in one of these groups.
5. Donate services or products to a local charity. Offer reduced or special pricing to charities or groups. Many school systems are having problems funding certain programs. Offer to provide something to them.
6. Get to know the media representatives in your area. Try to get an interview on local radio or in the newspaper. Use press announcements in your local newspapers. Most local newspapers look for news items.
7. Have a special rewards program or incentive for your existing customers that bring in new customers. This may not work for every franchise but if there is way to use a program like this give it a try.
8. Network with fellow franchisees in order to exchange ideas. Other franchisees in your network have probably experienced the same challenges and problems you have. Speak with them and establish a relationship. Some franchisees have a scheduled conference call or breakfast meeting among themselves. It’s a great way to exchange sales building ideas.
9. Utilize special promotions or pricing to attract customers. As a franchisee you have the ability to set your own prices unless there are certain restrictions in your franchise agreement. Consider reduced pricing on certain items to attract more business.
10. Use social media and mobile websites to generate more customers. If you’re able to use Facebook and Twitter to promote your business it’s a good way to gain more customers.

By implementing these tips you will have the opportunity to generate more sales.

© 2010 FranchiseKnowHow, LLC

Ed Teixeira is the President of FranchiseKnowHow, LLC. He can be reached at franchiseknowhow@gmail.com