History

For nearly 20 years, Jeff Johnson worked as a multi-unit franchisee and Area Developer. He dedicated his life and personal wealth to the success of that franchise and played a key roll in helping the company grow from 200 to over 750 units. After going public, however, the franchise company began closing locations, entering into a tailspin that eventually resulted in bankruptcy.

The experience was devastating, of course, but strangely inspiring as well. As he pondered his experiences, Johnson began to wonder: What separates the good franchises from the bad ones? If you stood on the outside looking in, how could you possibly know? In search of the answer to that key question, in 2003 Johnson founded the Franchise Research Institute®.

One of the first research experts to become a part of the Institute was Dr. Dwayne Ball, who holds a Ph.D in mathematical and statistical psychology from Ohio State University with a minor in consumer behavior research. A Fullbright Senior Scholar and Associate Professor of Marketing at the University of Nebraska, Dr. Ball provided the theoretical and methodological foundation upon which the Institute’s reputation has been built.

Purpose

The Franchise Research Institute was established to study and promote high standards of excellence throughout the franchise industry. In the course of our work, we have determined that the single differentiating factor between high performing franchise brands and mediocre or poor performing brands is the quality of the franchise relationship. No other factor comes close.

The focal tool we use to measure effectiveness is the FranSurvey. For franchisors, FranSurvey Certification is a sure sign that of the health (and future prospects) of the enterprise.

Learn more about FranSurvey

Working with the Institute

As a franchisor, when you work with the Franchise Research Institute you gain a clear understanding of how your efforts are perceived by your franchisees. You also receive expert counsel to maximize the effectiveness of your support programs and communications—thus ensuring that small issues don’t become big problems.

In addition, by taking the steps necessary to differentiate your franchise from the thousands of others that are available, you ensure yourself of a steady supply of franchisee candidates, create the opportunity to award franchises to the best qualified candidates, and close more deals more quickly.

Of course, the ultimate benefit of working with the Franchise Research Institute is this: When your franchise operates efficiently and effectively, it is very good for business. You’ll make more money, and so will your franchisees.

Contact the Institute today to discuss how we can help your franchise flourish.