There has been a dramatic increase in the number of women who have become franchisees over the last decade.  A study conducted by the SBA (Small Business Administration) showed that between 1975 and 2000, 10% of all firms established were women-owned franchises.  But since 1995, the number of women starting their own business has increased two fold.

 

A more recent study (2005) conducted by the IFA (International Franchise Association) shows that the number of women buying franchises is close to 25%.

 

Why have franchisors turned their attention to women over the last several years?  Well one of the biggest reasons is because of their female characteristics.  These are skills that have been identified by the franchising industry as being very important in effectively running a business and include attention to detail, prioritization, organization, efficiency and multi-tasking.  And these skills have been proven to be easily adaptable to any number of franchise models and systems.

Furthermore, research shows that women are not only interested in owning traditional feminine franchises such as beauty franchises but they have become more likely to enter tradition male dominated industries like auto repair and moving and storage.

 

Another reason for the influx of women franchise owners has been the emergence of various organizations set up to encourage women to enter into the franchise system.  These organizations like the SBA, Association of Women Business Centers, etc provide not only financial assistance but also seminars, workshops and mentoring programs.

 

In fact, research shows that women are more likely to succeed as franchise owners than are men.  And women need to take advantage of the opporutunities provided by this growing trend.