Buying an Existing Franchise Model Business in the Fast Food Industry: A Research Based Review
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Buying an Existing Franchise Model Business in the Fast Food Industry: A Research Based Review

Starting a new business can be challenging and risky, particularly in the fast food industry, which is highly competitive and subject to changing consumer preferences. An alternative option is to buy an existing business, which can provide several advantages and disadvantages. This chapter will discuss the advantages and disadvantages of buying an existing business in the fast food industry, and the role of market research in making informed investment decisions.

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Advantages of Buying an Existing Business

Established Customer Base:

An existing business has an established customer base, which can provide immediate revenue streams. Customers who are familiar with the existing brand and menu offerings may continue to visit the business after the change in ownership. This can be particularly beneficial if the customer base is loyal and returning customers are a significant source of revenue for the business.

Proven Business Model:

An existing business has a proven business model, with established systems and processes, reducing the risk of failure. The business has likely survived in a competitive market and has been profitable over time. The existing business model can provide a framework for the new owner to follow, reducing the need for extensive experimentation and trial and error.

Existing Infrastructure:

An existing business has an established infrastructure, including equipment, inventory, and supply chain, which can help you start operations faster. You can avoid the initial investment in equipment and inventory, which can be significant in the fast food industry. The existing supply chain can also provide an established network of suppliers, which can help reduce the costs of ingredients and other supplies.

Experienced Employees:

An existing business may have experienced employees who are familiar with the operations, reducing the need for extensive training. This can be particularly beneficial in the fast food industry, where employee turnover rates can be high. The existing employees can also provide valuable knowledge about the business, such as customer preferences and operational challenges.

Established Brand and Reputation:

An existing business has an established brand and reputation, which can help attract and retain customers. The brand recognition may also provide a competitive advantage in a crowded market. Customers who are loyal to the brand may continue to visit the business after the change in ownership, providing a stable revenue stream.

Disadvantages of Buying an Existing Business

Higher Upfront Cost:

Buying an existing business can be more expensive than starting a new business, as you are paying for the existing infrastructure and customer base. The cost can be a significant barrier for first-time business owners who may not have access to significant capital. Additionally, the higher cost can reduce the potential profitability of the business.

Potential Legal Issues:

An existing business may have existing legal issues, such as outstanding lawsuits, licenses, or permits. These issues can be costly to resolve and may delay the opening of the business. It is essential to conduct a thorough due diligence process to identify any potential legal issues and assess the risk they may pose to the business.

Outdated Systems and Processes:

An existing business may have outdated systems and processes, which may require significant investment to modernize. For example, the business may have outdated point-of-sale systems, inventory management systems, or marketing strategies. The modernization process can be time-consuming and costly, potentially reducing the profitability of the business.

Cultural and Management Differences:

The culture and management style of the existing business may not align with your own, which can lead to conflicts and challenges in integrating the business. The existing employees may also resist changes in management style, leading to productivity issues and employee turnover. It is essential to assess the cultural and management fit before deciding to buy the business.

Limited Growth Potential:

An existing business may have limited growth potential, as the business may have reached its maximum market potential. The existing customer base and menu offerings may not allow for significant expansion or innovation in the business. This can limit the long-term growth potential of the business, reducing the potential profitability of the investment.

The Role of Market Research in Making Informed Investment Decisions

Market research is a critical tool in making informed investment decisions when buying an existing business in the fast food industry. Market research can provide insights into the industry, market trends, consumer preferences, and potential opportunities and threats. The following are some ways in which market research can help inform investment decisions:

Buying an Existing Franchise Model Business in the Fast Food Industry: A Research Based Review
Buying an Existing Franchise Model Business in the Fast Food Industry: A Research Based Review

Industry Analysis:

Market research can help assess the current state of the fast food industry, including its size, growth potential, and competition. This can provide insights into the potential profitability of the investment and inform strategic decision-making, such as menu offerings, pricing, and marketing strategies.

Consumer Research:

Market research can help assess consumer preferences and behaviors, such as food choices, dining habits, and willingness to pay for fast food. This can inform menu offerings, pricing strategies, and marketing campaigns that resonate with the target audience.

Competitive Analysis:

Market research can help assess the strengths and weaknesses of competitors, including their menu offerings, pricing strategies, and marketing campaigns. This can help inform strategic decision-making, such as differentiation strategies and competitive pricing.

Market Segmentation:

Market research can help segment the market into different groups based on demographics, psychographics, and behaviour. This can help identify potential target audiences and inform marketing strategies that resonate with each segment.

Opportunity Assessment:

Market research can help identify potential opportunities and threats in the market, such as emerging trends and regulatory changes. This can inform strategic decision-making and help identify potential areas for innovation and growth.

Conclusion

Buying an existing business in the fast food industry can provide several advantages, such as an established customer base, proven business model, existing infrastructure, experienced employees, and established brand and reputation. However, it also poses several disadvantages, such as higher upfront cost, potential legal issues, outdated systems and processes, cultural and management differences, and limited growth potential. Conducting thorough market research can help inform investment decisions and mitigate the risks associated with buying an existing business.


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