The franchise fee is typically a one-time upfront dollar amount to begin the process of the relationship. Often the franchisor is trying to recoup the initial cost outlays to establish the franchise system. For the franchisee, this franchise fee is an expensive outlay that will take years to recover. Often this upfront fee is in the tens of thousands of dollars.
This lesson focuses on the accounting procedure for franchise fees and the formula used for revenue taxes. What is interesting is that in some states, one affects the other. To fully grasp this accounting nuance,
Prior to initiating operations, every business spends money to develop the idea and create the legal entity. These types of costs are referred to as ‘Organizational Expenses’. There are several different types of organizational expenditures. These include research and development, legal and start-up costs.
The primary reason for the franchise arrangement is the increased net profit for the franchisee in using the franchisor’s name, logo, brand, or trademark. The franchisor charges an upfront fee called a Franchise Fee, monthly Royalties, in some agreements a License Fee and Marketing/Advertising minimums. These additional costs to the franchisee are paid to use the franchisor’s name.
To negotiate a franchise agreement, the potential franchisee needs to fully understand the terminology used in the franchising industry. Often, new franchisees misunderstand the terms ‘Franchise Fee’, ‘Royalty Fee’, ‘License’ and ‘Marketing Fee’.
A franchise relationship is a partnership between two parties. The primary party is the Franchisor. This entity owns a master group of similar business selling/providing the same product or service. The Franchisor sells a ‘Right’ to his name and his conditions in exchange for a royalty fee. The second party is the Franchisee.
Simply put, Franchising is a partnership relationship. As a small business owner, you have to decide if you truly want to be in a relationship with an authority in your business operation. This can be a mutually beneficial arrangement or a nightmare from day one.
