A franchise is the purchased right to duplicate a brand as your own business for profit in exchange for a franchise fee and ongoing royalty fees. The expectation is that your business will be an exact replica of the brand prototype in every aspect that affects the customers’ experience. The goal is that the customer should be unable to distinguish any difference between one franchise and another within the same brand. There is very little flexibility in that area. The integrity of that duplication is what ensures the success of that brand. and therefore your franchise. While it is true that when you purchase a franchise you lose any flexibility in the interpretation of the brand’s product service and image you gain a proven model usually with years of successful experience. Many locations have already been opened and operate with success. The menu service and image have been embraced by customers and the business model is viable and profitable for the brand (assuming they have their own units) and existing franchisees. When you purchase a franchise you are also buying into a brand that will provide you with ongoing support via your brand-assigned business consultant. This person will be your liaison with the brand and the source of information guidance and operational support. Your brand/franchisor will also be evaluating your franchise to ensure that you are operating according to the brand standards you agreed to follow when you signed the franchise agreement. The last thing you are buying is the advantage of being part of a network of existing franchisees under the same brand with whom you will be able to learn and share best practices. They will be a great source of ideas and reference points to make sure that you are getting the appropriate results from your business.