Insights by bill beckham
After 27 years in P&G finance and first-hand franchise ownership, I write about the facts behind franchise investing so you can make confident, data-driven decisions.
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Franchise vs. Startup: Who Really Wins (and Why)
Buying a franchise promises proven systems. Starting your own business offers freedom. But which path actually delivers better returns and lower risk? In this article, Franchise Clarity founder Bill Beckham breaks down four real-world case studies that reveal who really wins (and why). You’ll see the math behind each story — from a 4.3× ROI franchise success to a 7.4× independent startup win, and the red flags that led others to lose millions. Learn how to evaluate your fit, spot inflated Item 19 claims, and avoid costly franchisor traps. Whether you’re a corporate executive, retiree, or veteran considering your next move, this guide will help you make a data-driven, eyes-wide-open decision about franchise vs. startup ownership.
The “Safe Bet” Trap: Why Familiar Franchises Aren’t Always the Best Choice
There’s a common assumption among franchise buyers: If a brand is well known, it must be well run.
But in franchising, familiarity doesn’t always equal strength — and visibility doesn’t always translate to franchisee success.
What a Good Franchisor Looks Like: Green Flags to Watch For
Over the last few weeks, I’ve written a lot about red flags in franchising — warning signs buried in the FDD or hidden behind the sales pitch. Those posts have struck a chord, but I don’t want to leave the impression that every franchisor is out to take advantage of you. The truth is, there are strong systems out there. The challenge is knowing how to spot them.
Should You Buy an Existing Franchise Instead of Starting One from Scratch?
When most people think about franchising, they picture cutting the ribbon on a brand-new location. But there’s another path: buying an existing franchise from a current owner.
How do you know which path makes sense for you? Let’s break it down.
Franchise Failures Are More Common Than You Think
Franchising is often positioned as a safer way to own a business—brand recognition, a proven model, training, and support all bundled into one package. Compared to starting from scratch, it feels like the odds are in your favor.
But here’s what rarely makes it into the sales pitch: franchise failures happen more often than most people think.
The Franchisor’s Business Model: What You Should Be Evaluating (But Probably Aren’t)
When prospective franchisees evaluate opportunities, they tend to focus on the unit economics—how much revenue a location can generate, what the margins look like, and how quickly they can break even. That’s important, but it’s only half the story.
5 Due diligence mistakes that cost franchisees thousands
Franchising can look like a “safer bet” than starting from scratch. But every year, smart people still lose money because they rushed through due diligence or trusted the wrong person. This article provides an overview of five common mistakes I see over and over again — and how to avoid them.
The franchise playbook isn’t built for executives like you
rOI math: what item 19 really tells you (and what it doesn’t)
For many prospective franchisees, Item 19 is the most scrutinized part of the Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD).
On the surface, it looks like a shortcut to understanding how much money you might make. But here’s the reality: Item 19 is a starting point — not a conclusion. And reading it at face value can lead to costly assumptions.
How Franchise Fees (really) work - and who benefits most
The franchise fee is often described as covering training, onboarding, and the right to use the brand. But here’s the problem: The franchisor earns this fee whether you succeed or fail.
the hidden risk of franchise validation calls - and how to ask the right questions
Franchisee validation calls are an important part of the due diligence process.
But here’s the problem:
Many of those calls don’t reflect the full truth. And unless you know what to ask — and who to ask — you might walk away with a false sense of confidence that leads to a very expensive decision.
Franchise or Founder: Choosing the Right Path After Corporate Life
After a layoff or a long career in corporate life, the idea of becoming your own boss can feel both thrilling and terrifying.
For many executives, the word “entrepreneur” starts showing up more often — in conversations, in LinkedIn posts, and in late-night Google searches.
And at some point, two paths come into view:
Start something from scratch... or buy a franchise.
The Hidden Conflict in franchise brokering
When you're evaluating a franchise opportunity, it's common to come across someone who offers to "help you for free." They're often called franchise consultants or brokers…But here’s what most people don’t realize:
Franchise brokers are almost always paid by the franchisor.
The Franchise Dream vs. Franchise Reality: What You Need to Know Before You Sign
Franchising can be a path to independence, cash flow, and legacy — when it’s the right fit. But too often, buyers mistake a polished pitch for a proven business model.
Why the FDD Doesn’t Tell the Whole Story
The Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD) is meant to protect buyers. It’s long. It’s legally required. It looks official.
But here’s the truth: The FDD is a starting point, not the full story.
Franchise Validation Calls: What to Ask and What You’re Not Being Told
Validation calls might be the most important — and underutilized — step in your due diligence process.
They’re your chance to speak directly with current franchisees. But not all validation calls are created equal.