Franchising is big business. Annually the UK franchising industry is worth over GBP9.5billion, employs 326,000 people and introduces around 3,000 new small businesses into the UK. Last year 95% of all franchisees reported profitability making it one of the safest ways to start up a business. Given these statistics, it is not surprising that franchising continues to expand, both in popularity and economic terms as individuals are able to enter the market with a proven brand and business formula to follow. The Franchising Handbook is a comprehensive and accessible guide for both franchisees and franchisors. It offers advice on the best way to choose a franchise, and is illustrated throughout with real-life case-studies plus an A-Z directory of franchises arranged by each major market. Key topics covered include: The Franchising Boom: success stories, size and scope of the UK franchising sector, how franchising works and the pros and cons How to Choose a Franchise: Self-assessment, preparing yourself, using an expert, the franchise contract, raising finance, what to expect next How to Franchise Your Business: Expanding your business, research, sources of franchise revenue, services provided by the franchisor, training and operating manuals Prospects for the future