Master Franchises

Do you have experience owning or managing one or more businesses? Master franchising is the ultimate entrepreneurial thrill - bringing an international brand into the UK market.

What is Master Franchising?

In the UK, business format franchising is where a business owner establishes their business in a way that can be replicated with minimal variation. Franchising is where an investor purchases the rights to trade as that brand, in their own area. Most of the opportunities on this site are franchises founded and actively franchising in the UK. But what if you wanted to bring an international brand into the UK? One that isn't already operating in the UK market? Well - this is where master franchising comes in.

Master franchising is where an individual investor or company forms an agreement with an international franchisor, to become a sub-franchisor (master franchisee) in the UK. The master franchisee will usually open a single unit, or multiple units as an area developer. The master franchisee will be tasked with franchising the business in the UK, recruiting franchisees and growing the brand to agreed targets, in the UK.

Master franchises can also apply to developing a particular brand within a region of the UK. For example, a UK franchise might agree to let a master franchisee (sub franchisor) further develop a brand in a given region to increase the number of units. Similarly to an area developer franchisee.

Are Master Franchises Profitable?

Being the master franchisee for an international brand can be extremely profitable, but just like investing in a UK franchise, you need to do research. Would the international brand be in demand in the UK market? You need to anticipate the demand. Is the business well known enough to stand up to UK businesses? Wendy's for example, entered the UK market in 2021 and has big plans, with many stores already open.

If you work with the right franchise brand and have a strong attitude towards business growth and franchising, master franchise opportunities could be perfect for you. As a master franchise owner in the UK, your role will be developing, research and marketing, growing the brand and making it a success.

How Much Do Master Franchises Cost?

As a master franchisee, you cannot just open one unit and be done. A master franchise agreement will require you to grow and develop the brand across the whole of the UK. This means planning territories and recruiting franchisees.

You will need a lot more capital and investment to become a master franchise owner. Speak to the franchisor of the brand you are interested in, to learn more about costs involved with master franchises.

Get into Business Ownership with Franchising

The UK franchising sector is thriving. Worth billions to the UK economy, the industry boasts incredible support from the bfa and businesses. The British Franchise Association actively work with a number of banks and businesses to promote franchising. Whether you're looking for support or finance, help is available. Is a master franchise right for you? Only you can make that decision. With over 1,000 franchises in the UK and growing, now is a fantastic time to get into business ownership.

Do what you love. Discover franchise opportunities at Franchise Planet and take your first steps into the world of business ownership.