The 8 | January 18, 2019

1. Frantastic: January is a Frantastic month for franchise development, and a recent article from 1851 Franchise explains why. While lead generation is a year-round process for franchisors, the beginning of the year is when candidates often start acting on their aspirations to pursue business ownership and leave their old careers behind. Interest in becoming a franchisee also peaks in January after the slower holiday season in November and December.

2. Franlebrity: We’re calling out five franchisees as our Franlebrities this week. Tony Schottenbauer of Christian Brothers Automotive, Alan Eddleston of Lawn Doctor*, Preet Saini of McAlister’s Deli, Geoff McGregor of Mosquito Hunters* and Deepak Aggarwal of Togo’s all spoke to 1851 for a feature highlighting what they found in their discovery process that made them commit to the brand they’re now with. You can check out the full story here.

3. Frash Money: It’s no secret that investing in a franchise takes a lot of Frash Money. That’s what makes Wienerschnitzel’s New Year's offer stand out — the hot dog brand has announced that the first 20 investors who sign on as franchisees in 2019 will receive a big discount on the franchise fee as well as reduced royalties. First-time investors who are able to take advantage of this deal will be offered a one-time franchise fee of $5,000, down 84 percent from the standard $32,000 fee. Additionally, if these new local owners begin construction within 18 months, they’ll qualify for a one percent royalty fee for their first three years of business instead of the standard five percent.

4. Frant of the Week: Never underestimate the power of the underdog. That’s what No Limit Agency* CEO Nick Powills is highlighting in his latest Frant for 1851. Every member of a company — including the unsung hero, sixth man, motivator, pinch hitter or whatever you want to call it — has a valuable place in an organization. Businesses need employees who have their backs and promote a positive culture in order to survive, which is why it’s important for these unsung heroes to be praised when possible.

5. Franch Forward: Last week, our Frantastic news was that the future of food delivery is almost here thanks to self-driving cars. This week, autonomous vehicles are back in the news as Walmart announces that it’s tapping into their potential in an effort to increase customer convenience. The retail giant — which continues to face increasing competition from Amazon — is partnering with autonomous vehicle startup Udelv to expand its grocery pickup and delivery program to include self-driving delivery vans. This program will be tested in Surprise, Arizona.

6. Fran Funny: When is your door not actually a door? When it’s ajar.

7. Franspiration: “Help people without expectation. Don’t do things because it’s your job or [because you’re] expecting something in return.” - Restaurant HR Group CEO Carrie Luxem on how to put the human back in human resources.

8. Franemies vs. Frands: Taco Bell is actively looking for new vegetarian Frands. The brand announced that one of its seven New Year’s resolutions is to rededicate itself to creating a vegetarian menu that will feature new meatless items. Taco Bell is no stranger to catering to the vegetarian community — while the brand is often associated with items like the Crunchwrap Supreme, it’s the only American Vegetarian Association-certified quick service restaurant in the country.