2019/07/05(Source: FCオーナーズ運営事務局)
The terms "franchise" and "FC" aren't commonly heard in everyday life. If you've recently started considering independence or starting your own business, you may not have had many opportunities to learn about franchises in detail. FC Owners would like to introduce the history of franchises.
(1) The Past of Franchise Businesses
(2) The Present of Franchise Businesses
(1) The Past of Franchise Businesses
It is said that the franchise business began when an American sewing machine manufacturer granted sales rights to retailers, leading to rapid business expansion. At that time, franchise businesses played a vital role for people seeking employment after the war. Many businesses emerged that provided operational know-how and training to people without business experience, and this evolved into the current franchise format.
Franchising in Japan
1963: First DUSKIN and Fujiya franchise stores opened
1971: First McDonald's directly managed store and first Kentucky Fried Chicken franchise store opened
1972: First Mos Burger directly managed store and first Lotteria franchise store opened
1973: First Yoshinoya and FamilyMart franchise stores opened
1974: First Baskin-Robbins and Seven-Eleven franchise stores opened
1975: First Lawson franchise store opened
Convenience stores, a prime example of Japanese franchise businesses, began in the 1970s. Their services, supporting essential infrastructure, have increased demand, and they now operate over 50,000 stores nationwide.
Introduction of Various Franchises
As "services" began to be treated as products in addition to "goods," various service businesses were franchised accordingly.
The following are some of the main service industry franchises.
Cram Schools
House Cleaning
Repair Services
Elderly Care
Training Gyms
Car Sharing
(2) The Current State of Franchise Businesses
According to data provided by Japan Franchise Chain, the total sales of the franchise industry exceed 24 trillion yen, and excluding the food service industry, all retail, service, and convenience store industries are showing year-on-year increases. Notable businesses include cram schools and elderly care businesses in the service industry, with both the number of stores and sales increasing. In addition, the renovation and remodeling industries are experiencing rapid growth, influenced by the share housing business and DIY trends.
Furthermore, in recent years, there are various other businesses such as hair salons, smartphone repair, and website creation. These new business formats are currently growing, making it easier to anticipate needs and open businesses in areas without competitors or existing stores.
■ Government Support
In recent years, efforts to support independence have also been revitalized, aiming to stimulate the Japanese economy.
To help even those without experience confidently start a business, various events such as startup support and business seminars are held. Depending on the franchise, it may be possible to receive subsidies and grants. If you are having trouble with startup capital, you should research subsidies and grants in more detail or consult with resources such as FC Owners' Q&A.
■ Overseas Franchises
In Japan, many food service franchises are izakayas (Japanese pubs) and restaurants. In contrast, overseas, there are many Western-style specialty shops such as bagels and pancake shops. Starting a franchise in one of these new food industries and introducing it to Japan is one option. It might also be interesting to consider it as a way to move abroad.
In recent years, there are truly a wide variety of industries and options for franchise independence and business startup. To choose the best franchise for you, be sure to explore various industries and analyze companies. Then, find the one that best matches your desired image of independence.
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