The ...on a Shoestring series helps small business owners grow their business imaginatively, effectively and without spending a fortune. Aimed at entrepreneurs with plenty of vision and commitment but not a lot of cash, each book is packed with ideas that really work, real-life examples, step-by-step advice and sources of further information.

Franchising is a popular option for many people who want to run their own businesses. It's a way of benefiting from the branding and reputation of an established enterprise and striking out on on your own at the same time. This book helps you to build a successful franchise, by:

• Working out if franchising would suit you (and your business)
  
• Investigating the pros and cons
  
• Working out the costs involved in a franchise
  
• Researching possible franchise options: what to look out for
  
• Finding a potential franchise
  
• Finding potential franchisees
  
• Vetting candidates if you're franchising your business
  
• Investigating non-traditional options: social enterprises, workers' co-operatives, employee-owned businesses and charities
  
• Understanding the importance of the franchise agreement
  
• Knowing what to do if things go wrong