The benefits of starting a franchise

Retirement can be a daunting prospect, particularly for individuals who retire at a younger age. Many people in their 50s and beyond have the financial capacity to follow their dreams of owning a business when they leave the traditional workforce. And there is no reason that older people driven by the entrepreneurial spirit cannot achieve their dream, says Glenn Pickersgill, Managing Director of Heritage Healthcare Franchising.

Franchises, with their strong brand and support network, are often the best way to start a business for people who may currently be employed and nearing retirement or redundancy. They can be an exciting solution for anyone who is unsure about dipping their toes into the more uncertain waters of self-employment. Franchising can give people the confidence to go into business knowing that there is an already established system in place, which eliminates much of the guesswork and trial and error new businesses often face.
Starting a new business is never an easy and straightforward option, but setting up in business as part of a larger and established company can be the best way forward for an increasing number of people making the leap into self-employment.  

With many franchise opportunities you are buying a complete, proven, and ready to run business with established systems, training and on ongoing support to facilitate a smooth passage from a career in the emergency services to becoming a successful business owner.

There are many different types of franchises available on the market today and thorough research into your chosen area is vital. The level of training and support provided by different franchises varies considerably and you need to be sure you will receive the help you need to build a successful business.   
Homecare is one of the biggest growth areas in the UK and a sector that is eminently suited to slightly older franchisees.  A franchise in this sector is a perfect fit for retiring police officers or ambulance workers because the core of the business is helping others and caring for people in sometimes difficult circumstances.

There are 10 million people in the UK aged 65-plus (one in six of the population). The latest projections are that this will increase by 5.5 million in the next 20 years and nearly double to about 19 million (one in four of the UK population) by 2050.

The current cost to the State for elderly care is more than £20 billion a year and Government policy is focusing on reducing the demand for residential care and enabling older people to be supported and cared for in their own homes for as long as possible. Sector forecasts demonstrate that as a result there will be an increased need for good quality homecare.

A franchise generally involves a significant investment so ensuring that the right choice is made is imperative. But not only the right business sector but also an organisation where you feel comfortable and confident with the support offered.
Once the choice is made the hard work starts, but also the beginning of a rewarding second career. Being a part of a franchise system will offer opportunities to grow. Once you have become a successful franchise owner the next step is to become a multi-franchise owner. You could soon be on your way to running a very successful and rewarding business!

For further details log onto www.heritagehealthcarefranchising.co.uk