Roles & structures

Franchise consultant

An adviser who helps either a business franchise itself, or a buyer choose a franchise. Their independence and fee model should always be checked.

What it means

Franchise consultants come in two kinds: those who help businesses become franchisors (building the model, documents and systems), and those who help buyers find a franchise. The second group often earns commissions from franchisors, which can shape the advice.

A consultant can add real expertise, but their incentives matter. A buyer-side consultant paid by franchisors is closer to a broker than an independent adviser.

In practice

Always ask a franchise consultant how they are paid. If a buyer-side consultant earns commission from the franchisor they recommend, weight their advice accordingly and get independent legal and accounting input too.

A real example

A prospective buyer engages a franchise consultant who suggests three brands, then learns the consultant earns a placement fee from two of them, prompting her to seek independent advice before deciding.

Franchise consultant, FAQs

What does a franchise consultant do?

Either helps a business become a franchisor, or helps a buyer choose a franchise. Buyer-side consultants often earn commissions from franchisors, so check how they are paid.

Is a franchise consultant independent?

Not necessarily. Many are paid by franchisors, like brokers. Ask about their fee model and always add independent legal and accounting advice.

See the full franchise glossary, the Fee Index or our buyer guides.