Wayne Scherger Expert in franchising, CEO coaching/mentoring.

Like one of the other people mentioned - have you worked on a "proof of concept" - that this is actually a viable concept. The amount of upfront work when developing a franchise systems can be quite substantial - as well as costly. That does not mean you shouldn't research it.

I am not an expert on your particular category (recording studio/music) - but I have franchised two (2) of my own businesses - and many others through my coaching services - so I know what systems you need to have in place for franchise recruiting/development/training/support/marketing etc..

I am not sure of your location - and how far along in your "vision" of franchising. If you could provide more details - I can offer more suggestions specific to your needs.

First, congratulations on developing your business to the current size - you should be proud of your accomplishment(s).

I have a # of questions for you before I provide my input.

- how long have you been operating?
- to get to 6 units - how long between expansion - opening new units?
- is the profit margin consistent between the 6 units?
- what did you use for your site selection?
- do you have solid systems/processes in place (sales/marketing/operations/recruitment/training/support/accounting)?

Service concepts are the most easy to franchise. Even if you are not the first to market with your concept - you can still create a successful company. I have founded 2 different franchise systems - and helped other clients launch their franchise models. I have been a franchisee, Master Franchise, Area Developer and Franchisor (35 years in franchising).

To be successful - you need to have solid "systems/processes". You cannot be fixing the airplane while you are flying it. Before going down the road of franchising - have you run the #'s (growth plans) - as to where you feel you can be in 3/5/7 years? Have you considered how you will bring on new prospective franchisees (broker vs non-broker).

Have you registered your mark? Have you thought of developing your Operations manuals - and what the training program would look like>

Are you prepared to become and "Administration" business? Once you start adding units - you will start to distance yourself from the core business?

Have you developed the "Vivid Vision" - what does your current (non-franchised) business look like in 3 years? Adding more units? Have you done a SWOT Analysis - looking at areas to capitalize on, shore up, invest in and how to handle threats to your brand?

Feel free to reach out to me - I would enjoy speaking to you about your concept and answer any follow-up questions you may have. Business # is 770.448.1616 or visit my website at: www.nextstepssystems.com