Insights by bill beckham
— A 27-year finance exec, franchise owner, and founder of Franchise Clarity. No fluff. Just what you need to know before you invest…
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.
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.