How long does it take to get a business ready for franchising?

The short answer is, quite some time. You must remember that franchising is not about franchising an idea, but about franchising a business oncept that you have proven works. First you must have an existing business that operates profitably and has a long-term future. If our existing business is not profitable, then clearly you do not have a franchisable proposition. Assuming that it is, the next step is o prove that your business can be replicated. This involves appointing one of more pilot franchisees for a minimum period of 12 months. During this period you would develop the operating manual and the pilot operations would prove that your business can be franchised.  You are then likely to need assistance with how to franchise your business - this is where franchise consultants come in. They can guide you on all aspects of your proposed franchised business. At the same time, you will need legal advice on your franchise agreement, trade arks, confidentiality agreement and other legal issues. If you have not already obtained a trade mark, then this could take six months r so. All of the above adds up to considerable time and expense. Launching a franchise is not a quick fix.