The 8 | June 2, 2017

1. Frantastic: We talk a lot about the role that technology plays in brands’ systems here on “The 8.” But not every tech-savvy and digital experience is a positive one. Sometimes, online shopping backfires. Head to 1851 Franchise to check out this week’s episode to see what happens when you don’t pay attention to the fine print.

2. Franlebrity: To close out our “Day in the Life” series, this week’s Franlebrity explains why a passion for helping others is what makes the franchising business model work. Richard Zimmer, Zoup!’s director of franchise development and real estate, says that a brand’s success ultimately comes down to its local connections. He elaborates, “Even though franchising brings a proven brand and established concept to the table, it’s very much a local business. That’s why it’s important for us to get to know our franchisees personally—there needs to be a strong tie to the community in order to be successful.”

3. Frash Money: Do you have Frash Money but don’t know how to make the most of it? Investing in a franchise might be the answer. And getting a new business off the ground doesn’t have to take a long time—there are brands out there that are designed with short ramp up periods in mind. That’s why we rounded up 20 franchise brands that you can buy and open in 2017 on 1851.

4. Frant of the Week: LinkedIn might be the greatest connector tool of our lifetime. But as No Limit Agency* CEO Nick Powills explains in his latest column, some sales people are missing the mark. Just because you connect with someone on the social network doesn’t mean that they want you to sell them. But when LinkedIn is used the right way, there’s real power in connecting with people in or around your network.

5. Franch Forward: It’s not rare for brands to Franch Forward with the help of multi-unit owners. However, Wild Birds Unlimited* has a multiple store approval process that’s unique. To ensure that their brand is growing with the right people and in the right locations, Wild Birds Unlimited has its franchisees follow certain steps before making the leap from single to multi-unit ownership.

6. Fran Funny: What type of plant do you put in a cake? Flour.

7. Franspiration Misquote: “Start where you are. Use what you have. Do what you can. Invest in a franchise.” – Arthur Ashe

8. Frands vs. Franemies: If there’s one thing we’ve learned here at “The 8,” it’s that interns are our Frands. And it’s not just because of all the work that they do—they can also bring different skills to the table. Check out these drawings that our intern drew of the No Limit Agency team and tell us what you think! You can vote for your favorite on Facebook.