Lynda Koch ⋅ Red Bank, NJ WFG - World Financial Group ⋅ 9 years experience

In this economy, it is so important to look at companies that can allow you to "Own Your Future". When a career ends, most people do not have a Plan B. How big can you set goals and vision? Have you decided success can happen for you in 1, 3 or 5 years? I know when you have a system to achieve your goals and have a mentor, your timeframe may change. As a business owner and part of a company that grew 50%, I would be pleased to speak with you and how I may help.

Alexander Hildenbrandt ⋅ Jacksonville, FL STONEWORK Franchising ⋅ 2 years experience

Daniel, I am a franchise broker and I don't know if a franchise is up your ally but I can talk to you about them if you want. There are a few different approaches. Michael is correct in everything he has said. Take your time. If you are approaching franchises, you are looking at ground up build out although the break even is much quicker depending on the work you put in. If you are looking for numbers in that range then multi unit ownership would be your game or Area representative that allows you to own and sub-license a brand if you can find one that will let you do that with your experience. I don't think many will right off the bat but that is where the money is at with the numbers you are looking for.

To Johns point. Many time many franchises have veterans incentives. I am the brand director of development for three brands and I mandate they have a 50% off franchise fee. A big brand like papa johns is all about the money you approach them with and your networks. They tend not to be the best choice unless you own multiple brands and you are diversifying. Most of there development focus is only on single unit which are pigeon holed to ..... anyway. If franchises are a subject of interest email me alex@stonefran.com.

I wish you luck bud, I will also try and connect you to Biz Brokers if you are going to be in the south east or Cali.

Michael Mitchell ⋅ Nashville, TN EMF Telecom Inc ⋅ 25 years experience

Dan,

I see you have a little more info on here, so to add to my earlier email. Most mid-market brokers are looking for a piece of the deal and most do not add any value or valuable leads. Some even charge an up front fee in order to see their lists. Totally not worth your time....

I suggest you find an area/industry you want to pursue then attend trade shows, research trade magazines and subscribe then start your research. Wireless Telecom has many areas of opportunity and expertise. Site Acqusition, Engineering, Tower Owners, Construction, Opertations, Logistics, etc.. Then you have the Carriers,,,

But, that is wireless, but the same would apply for most every industry. But if I could offer one little bit of advice, as we used to say in the Navy, "Don't run to your Death". Take your time and make a very informed decision before you spend your hard earned money.

Get a complete history of the company, Tax Returns, financials, etc are expected but also look into the owner(s), get their story, find out how long their will be around. Who are their contacts, what about their employees, who are the leaders and how long will they stick around.

You're oviously a smart guy and know what to do but before you marry someone (a company) make sure you look under their skirt/pants/clothes whatever.

MjM

John Green ⋅ Cary, NC Information Technology ⋅ 40 years experience

Papa Johns has a military incentive for new franchise owners which includes free ovens and reduced franchise tax for first four years.

Location average $837,000 in sales per year ( some do well over $1m ). Peyton Manning owns 35 stores.