In August of this year, Upside Group is offering an exclusive, Comprehensive Franchise Sales Training Program and Interactive Franchise Development Boot Camp (valued at $10,000 per seat).

This exciting opportunity includes:

• Pre-review of all your completed development system and materials
• Free attendance to the Franchise Development Boot Camp in Scottsdale, Arizona (flight and hotel at your own expense), which will include:
  • Interactive sessions taught by industry professionals who have sold over $25 Million in franchises
  • Breakout training sessions from top franchise development professionals to further advance knowledge and solidify a comprehensive understanding of the overall process
  • One on one role-play customized to your specific brand
  • Interactive round-table discussions
  • Breakdown and development of franchise sales systems specific to each franchisor
  • Feedback on franchise marketing, lead generation, public relations, social media and legal compliance
• Ongoing training for 90 days by phone and email

Ways to Enter:
Become a fan on our USG Facebook page.
Follow USG on Twitter.
Connect with our Google+ page.
Reply to or Retweet a USG Tweet.
Share, Comment or Like a USG Facebook post.
Share, Comment a USG Google+ post.
Subscribe to the USG Newsletter.
Share the USG Newsletter using the ‘Forward to a Friend’ button.
Share the USG Newsletter on your Social Media sites.
Comment on or Share a USG Blog.
Follow the USG LinkedIn page.

Entries are unlimited.  We will periodically post updates and information on ways to obtain additional entries.

For more information and updates, be sure to visit the Official USG $100,000 Giveaway Webpage!

The S.A.F.E. Co., your leader in self-storage, is proud to announce expansion into Ontario, Canada with the addition of new franchisee, Leigh Faubert and his partner David Pacey.   Leigh and David join S.A.F.E. Co.’s fast growing portable self-storage franchise, which offers the world’s most flexible storage container for any home or business.

The self-storage industry has been found to be the fastest growing new industry in the commercial property sector that has emerged over the last three decades.  The number of companies whose prime income is from providing storage facilities is phenomenal and still growing.

• In fact, the amount of gross revenue within the self-storage industry exceeded $20 billion in 2007, with the per-facility revenue now reaching over three hundred thousand dollars.

The demand for portable, quick-build storage for purchase is exploding, as most storage companies only rent units.  S.A.F.E. offers a unique service and product within the industry, in that the product and ease of assembly have been solving storage problems across the world.

John Smith, Founder of S.A.F.E. Co is ecstatic to have Leigh and David as a part of the S.A.F.E. Co team.  Today, with the popularity of the self-storage industry, S.A.F.E. owners like Leigh and David provide a much needed service to local communities.  If you want to know how you can own one of the fasts growing franchises today, click here for more information.

Finding the correct franchise for you can be a daunting task.  There are literally thousands of franchise brands strewn across various industries.  They range from inexpensive scaled down offerings to comprehensive, complex business models and everything in between.  It is estimated there will be upwards of 500+ new franchise opportunities that will launch in 2012 and they will be vying for new franchisees.

Certainly there is a lot of introspection necessary for you to figure out what type of franchise business would be the best fit for you.  You have to consider investment levels, industry, number of employees, return on investment, territory and many other factors.  Then once you narrow your list you have to consider job transition, life-style changes, budgeting and creating goals for your new business.  There are certainly mounds of information to consider when making such a big life-style change.  Well let’s add some other items to the list!

The infrastructure of the franchisor will be paramount to the success of your new franchise business. When a business owner has a thriving business they have many options if they choose to expand and at some time they may ask themselves if franchising a good option for expansion and how to franchise their business? When they ask the question how do I franchise my business, they are going to find out there are many items outside the business they are currently running that need to be created to be a successful franchisor.  There is a legal component to franchising which includes items such as an FDD, franchise agreements and compliance forms, these legal franchise documents frame the relationship between the franchisor and franchisee.

New franchisors will need to meticulously document their new franchise system and create items such as start-up franchise manuals, operations manuals, grand opening documentation, marketing strategies and training systems.  Performing this process is typically not contained in the skill-set of the average business owner and while some new franchisors go it alone and try to create all this important documentation on their own, others will have franchise consultants  assist them in creating these essential documents and infrastructure.

So what does this mean for you?  Well, once you choose the type of new franchise that best fits your list of criteria and have narrowed the selection to a select few, an advisable next step would be to investigate how they created all the necessary franchise documentation that you will be utilizing while running your new franchise.

So before you answer the question “what franchise is best for me”, find out how your top choices answered the question “How do I franchise my business”.

Finding the correct franchise for you can be a daunting task.  There are literally thousands of franchise brands strewn across various industries.  They range from inexpensive scaled down offerings to comprehensive, complex business models and everything in between.  It is estimated there will be upwards of 500+ new franchise companies that will launch in 2012 and they will be vying for new franchisees.

Certainly there is a lot of introspection necessary for you to figure out what type of franchise business would be the best fit for you.  You have to consider investment levels, industry, number of employees, return on investment, territory and many other factors.  Then once you narrow your list you have to consider job transition, life-style changes, budgeting and creating goals for your new business.  There are certainly mounds of information to consider when making such a big life-style change.  Well let’s add some other items to the list!

The infrastructure of the franchisor will be paramount to the success of your new franchise business.  When a business owner has a thriving business they have many options if they choose to expand and at some time they may ask themselves – is franchising a good option for expansion and how do I franchise my business?  When they ask the question how do I franchise my business, they are going to find out there are many items outside the business they are currently running that need to be created to be a successful franchisor.  There is a legal component to franchising which includes items such as an FDD, franchise agreements and compliance forms, these legal franchise documents frame the relationship between the franchisor and franchisee.  In addition, the new franchisor will need to meticulously document their new franchise system and create items such as franchise manuals used in start-up, operations manuals, grand opening documentation, marketing strategies and training systems.  Performing this process is typically not contained in the skill-set of the average business owner and while some new franchisors go it alone and try to create all this important documentation on their own others will engage experienced franchise consultants to assist them in creating this essential infrastructure.

So what does this mean for you?  Well once you choose the type of new franchise that best fits your list of criteria and have narrowed the selection to some select few, an advisable next step would be to investigate how they created all the necessary franchise documentation that you will be utilizing while running your new franchise.

So before you answer the question what franchise is best for me…find out how your top choices answered the question “How do I franchise my business”.

Transit Van Services is a young, dynamic Regional company based in Southern California.  Set to dominate a new market niche, Transit Van Services has initiated plans to create a powerhouse franchise brand which will blanket the country and international markets.  In order to expand their franchise system operations, Transit Van Services has joined forces with Upside Group Franchise Consulting.  Upside Group will create franchise business systems, deliverables and franchise manuals which will enable Transit Van Services to launch a successful franchise system.

According to Transit Van President, Kenneth Larkin,

“We chose Upside Group based on their comprehensive approach, diligent follow through and their industry knowledge.  When we compared Upside Group with other consultants in the industry, they were clearly the top choice.“

Transit Van Services, Inc. has been providing over a decade of reliable, quality transport services to those who are in need of assisted transportation.  With state-of-the-art technology and dedication to their customers, Transit Van Services fills the gap between personal and public transportation.  Transit Van Services offers the highest quality transportation and value, in addition to holding a direct focus on meeting the needs of their customers and customizing transportation programs to meet the needs of their clients.

The Transit Van Franchise system will excel in brand power, shared systems, and high quality franchise partners.  The ultimate goal at Transit Van Services, Inc. is to provide a dynamic franchise brand while helping franchise partners achieve their financial and professional goals.

For franchise owners it is important to continuously be growing your business. By expanding your business, you are coming into contact with more patrons and potential franchisees.  Unfortunately, in economic recessions this task can prove to be more difficult. This is the reason you should always be watching for new franchise marketing techniques to pique the interest of new franchisees and increase your franchise sales. Eye catching franchise marketing can prove to be an important part of your business model.

Below are five techniques to help grow your business.

1.  In-Store Advertising

Although it may seem simple, you can use your own stores to broadcast your business. Franchise owners are able to use the popularity of their stores and the frequent visits from customers to promote new franchise locations. Each new store has the opportunity to further promote future franchisees, while bringing your products into the lives of new patrons.

2.  Networking

Typically, when people think of networking, many think of finding a job.  But in franchise marketing it is the opposite, you are seeking individuals who you can offer jobs to.  By networking, you will be able to connect with new franchisees, while promoting your business and helping to create a larger employment pool. There are many different types of networking, ranging from email, to in person, to online on LinkedIn and other social networking sites. Knowing the right people can cause an increase in your franchise sales.

3.  Media

The media provides another option to increase your franchise sales. Although different strategies apply, you can use both the local and national media to expand your business. The local media is an important tool for lead generation and allows you to target geographic areas where you would like to grow. National exposure provides the largest scope and can attract large amounts of attention.

4.  Internet Marketing

One of the largest and most powerful franchise marketing tools is the Internet. Franchises are able to utilize online marketing tactics both through advertisements, social media and email campaigns. Companies can utilize both paid and organic marketing to connect with users.

5.  Trade Shows

Tradeshows are another way to meet prospective franchisees. The event will provide an insight for potential franchise owners, while promoting brand awareness and product visibility. Tradeshows also provide an opportunity to promote new and current products and drive sales.

For a franchise business to be successful, it is important to continuously work to find new leads and increase franchise sales.  Franchise marketing is a proven way to generate new leads and expand your business. For more information, contact Upside Group Franchise Consulting today!

In order to expand their franchise business operations, strengthen franchise development deliverables and widen their franchise base to the continental United States, Sumo Sushi has announced the partnership with Upside Group Franchise Consulting.

According to Shane Kailihiwa, Co-Owner and Board Member of Sumo Sushi,

 “When we made the decision to launch our franchise concept into the US market, we contacted 3 reputable franchise consultants.  Of them all, the Upside Group stood out as the most knowledgeable in the industry.  Their no-nonsense approach to developing solid platforms for which franchises can build a sustainable business is refreshing. We look forward to working with the Upside Group each step of the way.”

The Sumo Sushi and Bento concept restaurants were founded by a family of four entrepreneurs in 2000. Since then, Sumo Sushi and Bento has gained a reputation as a successful family business through its commitment to providing high quality menus, a warm and relaxing atmosphere and excellent service.  Sumo not only serves classic Japanese dishes like customer favorite Teriyaki Chicken Bento with Sumo’s own homemade teriyaki sauce (made right in the restaurant) and the specialty favorite of Unagi Bento (freshwater eel); Sumo is also on the cutting edge of innovative new recipes as our head chef’s continue to create fun, flavorful East meets West favorites.

Upside Group Franchise Consulting is a full service, boutique franchise consulting firm with offices across the country. They have a handpicked, professional staff with decades of franchise experience from all disciplines of the franchise industry.  Upside Group Franchise Consulting offers their clients a full suite of franchise services including innovative franchise marketing programs, outsourced franchise sales, franchise sales training, franchise lead screening, franchise manuals, franchise marketing collateral, and award winning web design.  Headquartered in Scottsdale, Arizona, Upside Group Franchise Consulting regularly speaks at International Franchise Association events, serve as contributing writers for several franchise industry publications and have instructed at Nova University, the nation’s leading institution for higher education in the franchise industry.

To learn more, please visit: http://www.upsidefranchiseconsulting.com

The New Year is a great time for entrepreneurs to engage in shopping for a new franchise opportunity.  If you’re not too burned out from all the holiday shopping, gather up your remaining energy and look into the various franchise companies that might make 2012 a great year.  While making a career transition can be daunting, it can also be exhilarating and rewarding.

With all the franchise businesses available in many different industries, a franchise prospect may wonder how they can begin narrowing their choices; start by making a list.  Many franchise prospects jump on the internet and start searching for franchise companies and are quickly overwhelmed by all the choices.  By making a list you can begin to target industries and franchise companies within those industries that might be a good fit for you. 

Some key items to consider are:

·         As they say, “Find something you love and you will never work again.”  So, make sure to list activities that interest you.  There is likely a franchise that includes that type of activity.

·         Do you want a brick and mortar franchise location or an outbound service?

·         What type of hours do you want to work?  Are you okay with nights and weekends or are you looking for a more standard 9 to 5?

·         How many employees do you want to manage?

·         Are you looking for a business which you can run part time?  From home?

·         What is your total investment level?

·         Are you looking for a niche business or something more mainstream?

·         What are your financial goals for the business?

·         Are you going to have a partner or are any family members going to be involved in the business?

After you have answered these questions consider arranging your answers by importance, such as what you would prefer and what you could live without.  Once you have your final list assembled you can now start looking for franchise companies much more efficiently.  So grab your list and head onto websites like franchisegator.com to help educate and inquire about your top choices.  By cross referencing your answers with the various search tools available on franchise portals such as industry, investment level, hot new franchises and location, you can quickly find franchise companies that should closely match your interests.

Make your list and check it twice and you just might find a great new career through franchise entrepreneurship in 2012!

Congratulations to USG client, Complete Nutrition for landing at Number 2 on Entrepreneur.com’s list of Top 10 New Franchises for 2012!  Complete Nutrition joins a list of the newest stars in the franchising world this year.

Complete Nutrition is an upscale nutritional supplement retail store. Their goal is to help each customer look better, feel better and perform better every day.

Started in 2004, Complete Nutrition is now one of the fastest-growing franchises in the nation with over 80 franchises in over 30 states. Complete Nutrition stores eliminate the clutter and high pressure sales environment of typical nutritional supplement stores and instead focus on giving customers the best experience and results for their money. To that end, Complete Nutrition stores employ certified personal trainers, former strength coaches and other experienced fitness professionals in order to best assist customers in developing personalized nutrition programs.

Complete Nutrition joined forces with Upside Group Franchise Consulting to review their franchise operations systems and franchise development deliverables in order to further widen their franchise base.

To view the full list of 2012 Top New Franchises, click here.

Franchise Advertising through Facebook Check-In Deals

The emergence of social media has opened many marketing doors, specifically for franchise advertising.  A franchise business utilizing Facebook Places for the company’s various locations has the ability to produce check-in options at each of the stores.  After the various check-in locations have been created, the franchise company can then begin to use Check-In Deals.  Check-In Deals can be created for specific stores or companywide and give customers a reason to notify their Facebook following of their preference to a business. The deals bring awareness, encourage in-store traffic and build future customer loyalty.  Below is more information on how to use Check-In Deals for franchise advertising.

Value of a Deal for Franchise Advertising

According to Facebook there are over 200 million active users on the mobile site.  The deals appear only when customers are using Facebook mobile near the locations offering them. Meaning a deal can help to reach new and current customers.  After a deal is used the Facebook users check-in is broadcasted to all of their followers.  The average Facebook user has 130 registered friends or followers on the site, which gives a business a large population to reach through one check-in. Also, Check-In Deals can be offered for the entire franchise company or for specific franchise locations.  This can help to drive traffic to slower stores or bring in more customers to all locations. 

Types of Check-In Deals

• Individual Deals

This is a one-time deal and can attract potential and existing customers.  Examples of individual deals include a percentage off a purchase, a gift with purchase or seasonal incentives.  It is meant to draw considerable amounts of customers into your stores. 

• Loyalty Deals

Loyalty deals are similar to loyalty cards at many restaurants, only on a customer’s phone.  In creating a loyalty deal, customers must check-in a specific number of times to claim the deal.  Facebook requires more than two but less than 20 check-ins for this type of franchise advertising. This type of deal is attractive to your already loyal customers. 

• Friend Deals

By design, Facebook promotes social interaction, meaning it should be no surprise that there is also a deal dependent on the amount of people involved.  Friend deals allow businesses to offer deals for groups of up to eight people, when the patrons check in together. 

• Charity Deals

Charity deals are just that, allowing check-ins to account for company donations to a specific charity.  Many times an act of charity will receive more check-ins than a personal discount.  Franchise businesses are able to decide the amount per check-in and the charity. 

Creating Your Deal

1. The first step is to choose the type of deal. Depending on your expectations, franchise marketing strategy, customers and business type, you will choose from the four deals explained above. Each deal has the opportunity to promote your business through a different agenda.   
2. Next you will define your deal by writing the deal summary in 50 characters or less and the explanation of how to claim the deal in 100 characters or less.  The deal summary explains what the deal is for, example being a percentage off a purchase. The explanation of how to claim a deal explains who to present the deal to in order to receive it.  
3. The third step entails setting the dates, details and restrictions.  Facebook recommends setting up a deal at least 48 hours prior to the start and to run it for at least a week to allow customers an opportunity to visit your business. Restrictions to a deal can include how many times a deal can be claimed, both in general and per user. 
4. Once the deal is approved by Facebook, it is pushed to the different Place pages of a company allowing customers to check-in at specific locations. 
5. Finally, you should promote your deal through your company Facebook page and in-store information. 

The use of Facebook Check-In Deals can be a simple and beneficial advertising tactic for franchise businesses.  As a franchise you are able to reach specific markets and customers, both possible and current, and draw them in through savings and charity.