If the crisis has visibly stimulated the desire of young people to launch their own business, it also reinforced fears and awareness of the risk that this represents. A situation which gives full meaning to the franchise model in view of the results of the latest annual franchise survey by the Banque Populaire and the French Franchise Federation.
Having an entrepreneurial career is the dream of many French people, and it is particularly popular among young people : 47% of 18-30 year olds want to start their own business, according to a survey carried out by Ifop for Bpifrance. The desire for freedom and independence is the primary driving force behind business creation. But the multiple crises have also reinforced a return to craftsmanship and ecological awareness.. If entrepreneurship attracts young people, not everyone takes the plunge to realize their dream. The main reasons ? The fear of not succeeding, not being competent enough or not having the necessary funding. However, the nineteenth edition of the annual Banque Populaire franchise survey* reveals that the vast majority of franchisees are young when they open their first point of sale : 35 years on average, and 36% of them have not completed higher education. With a further increase of 6,1% of franchised points of sale between 2021 and 2022, the franchise confirms the strength of its model. A model based on the development of a tested and proven concept : by operating a recognized brand, the franchise promises a quick and efficient start.
Formation, finances : two key assets
The franchise offers significant support to the franchisee in the management of their business. According to the annual franchise survey, comprehensive training lasting an average of 39 days allows franchisees to master all aspects of operating the business and to be fit for the job. A large number of franchises also set up a sponsorship system between new franchisees and seasoned franchisees.. The financial advantages of the franchise are considerable with personal contributions which can start from 10,000 euros, easier financing opportunities thanks to brand awareness, as well as economies of scale on purchases and supplies. All this translates into better accessibility and faster profitability for young entrepreneurs, who can therefore focus on growing their business.
A model in tune with the times
With French people increasingly attentive to the commitment of the brands they consume and young people who wish to invest in a meaningful professional career, the franchise evolves and transforms. To respond to environmental and societal challenges, franchisors are changing their practices : 67% of franchisors source their supplies from French manufacturers and 62% favor short circuits according to the latest edition of the annual Franchise survey.. Certain franchise concepts are even created with the aim of responding first to these issues.. So, companies are emerging with specific social and environmental objectives, like the fight against pollution, improving the quality of life of the elderly or promoting renewable energies. Three examples : Natilia, leading builder of wooden frame houses in France, for a home offering high energy performance and a low carbon footprint ; Easy Cash, leading French network for the purchase and sale of used and reconditioned products, active for over twenty years ; Grandsons, national network of agencies specializing in home help for the elderly. The franchise now has 1,972 networks in France, 84,497 franchised points of sale, and represents 828,178 direct and indirect jobs and 76,6 billion euros in turnover.
*survey carried out in partnership with the French Franchise Federation and Kantar.
