Discovery Day

In the franchise world, due diligence is key. For those considering investing in a franchise, Discovery Day serves as a pivotal milestone. Before the age of Covid-19, these events were typically in-person affairs at the franchisor’s headquarters. However, the pandemic has reshaped this tradition, with many franchisors now hosting virtual Discovery Days.

Regardless of the format, the essence of Discovery Day remains unchanged. It’s a golden opportunity for you, the franchisee candidate, to immerse yourself in the ethos of the franchise. Meeting the leadership team and understanding their vision can offer invaluable insights into whether the franchise aligns with your business aspirations. At the same time, it provides franchisors a chance to evaluate if you are the right fit for their brand expansion.

To illustrate, consider the approach of Chicken Salad Chick, a restaurant franchise. They persisted with their on-site 'Hospitality Days' despite the pandemic, emphasizing the irreplaceable value of face-to-face interactions. A day at their headquarters would include intensive meetings with executives, in-depth presentations on various facets of the business, and a chance to engage with multiple support staff members.

On the other hand, franchises like TWO MEN AND A TRUCK and Mathnasium shifted their Discovery Days online. This change led to more personalized sessions where potential franchisees could gain insights over a series of shorter virtual meetings.

But regardless of the format, the heart of Discovery Day is about mutual discovery. You're evaluating them as much as they're evaluating you.

Franchise Discovery Days are pivotal moments in the franchising journey, offering potential franchisees a closer look into the inner workings of their chosen franchise. These events provide a unique opportunity for both the franchisor and the franchisee to evaluate each other and decide if they can embark on a successful business partnership.

Defining a Franchise Discovery Day

A Franchise Discovery Day is a planned event at a franchisor’s headquarters where potential franchisees get a comprehensive view of the business and its operations. This isn't just a casual visit; only qualified candidates, those who have met specific experience and financial requirements set by the franchise, get invited. This is the occasion where candidates can interact with the executive team and understand the franchise culture and operations in-depth.

Securing an Invitation to a Discovery Day

To be invited to a Franchise Discovery Day, one doesn't simply show up. There's a process to ensure only serious and qualified candidates attend:

• Application Process: As a preliminary step, prospective franchisees need to complete an application detailing their qualifications and financial stability.
• Background Check: Franchisors conduct thorough background checks to vet potential candidates, ensuring that they align with the franchise's values and standards.
• Reviewing Key Documents: Candidates will be sent the Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD) which provides detailed insights into franchise ownership, such as executive backgrounds and financial obligations. Additionally, a sample franchise agreement will be shared for review.
• Research and Preparedness: Before attending the discovery day, potential franchisees should conduct their own research, ensuring they have a deep understanding of the franchise and its standards.

What to Anticipate on the Day

The Discovery Day offers candidates a holistic view of the franchise. Here's a glimpse of what the day typically involves:

• Tours: A walkthrough of the franchise offices and, if applicable, their warehouses, offers a firsthand look at their operations.
• Group Presentations: These are crucial as they dive deep into the business model, expectations, and the roles a franchisee will assume.
• Meetings with Current Franchisees: Some franchises bring in existing franchisees to provide a realistic perspective on the day-to-day operations and challenges.
• Interaction with the Team: Candidates meet various departments such as marketing, sales, finance, and more, culminating with a meeting with the CEO.
• Dinner or Reception: A less formal setting allowing candidates to interact and network, often concluding the day.

Post Discovery Day Steps

The journey doesn't end after the Discovery Day. While the franchisor evaluates if the candidate is a right fit, the potential franchisee also has crucial decisions to make. This involves:

• Evaluation by the Company: The franchise team assesses if the candidate understands the franchise model and if they would make a successful franchisee.
• The Decision: It's on the potential franchisee to decide if they wish to proceed. It's vital to take the time to assess if franchise ownership aligns with their personal and financial goals. Engaging a franchise lawyer to review the contract before finalizing is also highly recommended.

Choosing the Perfect Franchise Opportunity

Franchise Discovery Days are significant commitments. If one decides to attend, it should be with genuine interest in investing. The comprehensive presentations and operational insights provided aren’t just informational sessions; they are meant for serious candidates evaluating their investment options. It’s essential to approach the day prepared, armed with questions, and a clear understanding of one’s own business aspirations.

Conclusion

Franchise Discovery Days serve as a bridge, connecting potential franchisees with franchisors. It's an opportunity to dive deep, understand the franchise model, and make informed decisions about future business ventures. As with any significant decision, research, preparation, and due diligence are key to making the most of these events.