Cover Story
How does the recruitment process work? The recruitment process, interviews and in restaurant evaluations take place over a number of months. If applicants complete this process successfully, they will receive a full programme of training, before they’re up and running. We view our franchisees as business partners, and, thanks to our rigorous recruitment process, we know that they are a pool of highly talented individuals that want to see McDonald’s as market leaders.
What training will I receive? You will receive a minimum of nine months full-time training, both in our restaurants and in the classroom. You’ll also receive ongoing training and support from our operations teams.
What are the pros/cons of running a franchise?
Richard Forte, senior vice president and chief operations offi cer
already operating successful businesses before they came to us, whilst others have come from prominent careers in the private and public sectors. They were drawn to McDonald’s by the challenge and opportunity that we off er ambitious people that are looking to start a whole new career with us.
However, becoming a McDonald’s franchisee is not for everyone. Taking on a McDonald’s franchise is a 20- year commitment, which is why we’re so selective – we want to work with the right people. Of course, running a successful restaurant business demands a particular set of skills. Whilst you don’t need experience in the food industry, it’s important that you have the ability, passion and determination needed to lead your business and your team. As a franchisee, you’re building your own business – and taking ours to a whole new level.
Do I need to be a millionaire to be a franchisee? You don’t need to be a millionaire, but you do need some money in the bank. At the start of your training, you’ll need to pay a £5,000 deposit, which we’ll refund when you buy your fi rst franchise, less any costs we incur in relation to your training, including course fees of approximately £750 and any costs for accommodation and/or training materials. The right to run
a restaurant typically costs in the region of £150,000 to £400,000, and 25 per cent of this needs to be paid upfront in unencumbered funds. You’ll also need to pay a one-off franchise fee of £30,000.
Franchising allows you to take advantage of a fi rm’s business model, buying power, supply chain logistics, research and development whilst giving you access to support and training that an owner of an unfranchised SME may not have access to. That said, there are ongoing fees and a requirement to comply with system standards – it is freedom within a framework and that’s not always for everyone.
“It’s important that you have the ability, passion and determination to lead your business...”
What should I look for in a franchisor? When looking for a franchisor, research is key. A good franchisor will support you both in starting your business and as it grows, so it’s important to check their credentials, as well as whether any fees are payable, how the business is operated day-to-day and whether training is provided.
Look for a franchisor that has a British Franchise Association (bfa) membership. This ensures that the franchisor is measured against a code of ethical franchising standards.
A franchisor should also be experienced with a good track record. McDonald’s has over 30 years’ experience in franchising.
How much control does McDonald’s have over the business? One of our greatest strengths is the consistent delivery of quality food, a varied menu and good service across our entire estate. Delivering an excellent and consistent customer experience is one of our highest priorities. Whether our customers are walking into a McDonald’s in Bristol, Birmingham, Manchester or Glasgow, they trust that they’ll get the same friendly service.
As independent, local business people, our franchisees do have the freedom to choose what their restaurant will look like, decide which design has the right feel for their area, and, of course, they’re the decision-makers on who they hire and how they become involved in their communities – which may be their support of a local grassroots football team, charity, or community clean up event.
McDonald’s Quick service restaurant
www.mcdonalds.co.uk/franchising
July/August 2016 |
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