Restaurant chains like Subway and Wendy's seem to have suddenly popped up over night in many places. Businesses like Starbucks and other popular franchises appear to be sprouting roots on every corner of America’s bustling cities. However, these successful franchises—despite their appearances—did not become successful overnight. The development of a franchise industry takes a lot of hard work and determination.

It is difficult to pinpoint accurately how franchising developed, but it is easy to trace the origins of the idea of franchising. The same appeal that franchising holds to many business owners in America today can be traced to its roots. The origins of franchising are rooted in the desire of the business owner to distribute and sell certain goods and products. In earlier centuries, for example, this would be demonstrated by beer companies allowing certain taverns to distribute and sell their beer.

After World War II, the world of franchising really began to develop and to take off in America. Baby boomers became enthusiastic about the idea of business format franchising, and this new industry took off with a bang. Business format franchising is the type of franchising seen across America today, from McDonalds to Mail and More and Executive Tans. This type of franchising involves not only the transfer of product to sell and distribute, but of the original company’s way of doing business. Marketing schemes, advertising, and the general way in which the parent company wants its franchises to do business are all passed along to the franchises. Thus, franchise owners can operate their own business and be their own boss without having to worry about coming up with original ideas for their company.

The history of franchising has not always been bright. As the industry began to grow after the 60s and 70s, it experienced difficulties like any business venture. Some people wishing to own their own franchise did not do enough research about the parent company and made unwise decisions, costing them their investments. Some business owners did not invest enough capital to allow their companies succeed, while other parent companies’ unsavory business practices caused their franchises to fall through.

However, franchising opportunities are increasing every day. Thorough research and investigation and careful investment of capital are the keys to owning a successful franchise. This can be accomplished with the right amount of determination and hard work.