Franchise - GCSE Business Definition

Reviewed by: Lisa Eades

Published

Last updated

What is a franchise?

In GCSE Business, a franchise is an arrangement where an individual (franchisee) buys the rights to operate a business model, sell its products and use its branding. The franchisee receives support from a larger company (franchisor) in exchange for an initial lump sum plus ongoing fees.

A franchise is not a form of business ownership; it is an alternative to starting up a brand new business from scratch. The franchisee establishes a private limited company and then operates the business using the franchisors’ systems and receives training, marketing support, and ongoing assistance. For the franchisor, franchising is a quick way to grow the business. For the franchisee, operating under a well-known brand name is more likely to lead to success than starting up a business from scratch. Franchises are particularly common in the fast food industry, with well-known brands such as McDonalds, Subway and Dunkin Donuts expanding their businesses through franchising.

Franchise Revision Resources to Ace Your Exams

Save My Exams has a great range of resources to explore the topic of franchises further. 

Find out about franchises in our GCSE Business franchise revision notes or test your knowledge of business ownership, including franchises, with our exam questions to improve your grades.

Explore GCSE Business Revision Resources

Sign up for articles sent directly to your inbox

Receive news, articles and guides directly from our team of experts.

Share this article

Lisa Eades

Reviewer: Lisa Eades

Expertise: Business Content Creator

Lisa has taught A Level, GCSE, BTEC and IBDP Business for over 20 years and is a senior Examiner for Edexcel. Lisa has been a successful Head of Department in Kent and has offered private Business tuition to students across the UK. Lisa loves to create imaginative and accessible resources which engage learners and build their passion for the subject.

The examiner written revision resources that improve your grades 2x.

Join now