astra-sites domain was triggered too early. This is usually an indicator for some code in the plugin or theme running too early. Translations should be loaded at the init action or later. Please see Debugging in WordPress for more information. (This message was added in version 6.7.0.) in /home/franch29/public_html/blog/wp-includes/functions.php on line 6131Whether you are a new or experienced entrepreneur, selecting a restaurant franchise<\/a> can be a daunting task.\u00a0 While hard work and perseverance are important to success, understanding your niche in the market is critical.\u00a0 Having a plan in place for how you will operate and grow your franchise during a tough economy will help you outlast the competition.<\/p>\n According to a U.S. Department of Labor expenditure survey, consumers spent an average of $2,698 per year on eating out in 2009.\u00a0 However, the wrong restaurant franchise location can quickly turn an investment into a loss.\u00a0 Before selecting a franchise, do research on demographics and location.\u00a0 For example, if space is available to rent in a shopping center in a college town near student apartments, selecting a Little Caesar\u2019s pizza franchise would be a smart investment.<\/p>\n Consider your budget when selecting a restaurant franchise.\u00a0 Restaurant franchises with more extensive resources to develop marketing and training programs will be more expensive to buy into.\u00a0 Less expensive franchises may be appealing to first-time franchise owners, but can take longer to turn a profit.<\/p>\n Do research on the feasibility of your proposed restaurant location.\u00a0 Get familiar with your County\u2019s General Plan, which is the framework for decisions on developing land in the future.\u00a0 Pay particular attention to the General Plan\u2019s maximum allowable density of development for commercial and industrial use.\u00a0 Obtain a copy of the local zoning ordinances by calling or visiting the County Planning office.\u00a0 Zoning ordinances will help you plan whether your proposed restaurant meets requirements for setbacks, parking, square footage and building height.\u00a0 Join a local business network to meet other local business owners and keep in touch with the community\u2019s future growth.\u00a0 This information can also help you make a decision on when to make the big investment once you\u2019ve decided which franchise<\/a> to choose.<\/p>\n Consider the availability and locations of other businesses with potential for targeted traffic and co-marketing.\u00a0 For example, if you are considering a Cousins Subs franchise, being located near a gym offers opportunities to co-market products and services for health conscious customers.\u00a0 When trying to decide between restaurant franchises, make sure vehicle and foot traffic is available for your particular niche at the location you are considering.<\/p>\n As with any career opportunity, consider your goals and career path.\u00a0 Do you envision entering the franchise business as a stepping stone for owning your own restaurant?\u00a0 Select a franchise with excellent marketing plans and training programs.\u00a0 If you plan to be in the game for the long-term you may select a franchise based on the potential for future growth and expansion in your geographic area.<\/p>\n