How Long Does It Take to Open a Franchise Business?
If you’ve ever wondered how long it actually takes to open a franchise business, you’re not alone. It’s one of those questions everyone asks early on when thinking about jumping into franchising.
The honest answer? It depends on the type of business you want to open.
Service-Based Franchises: Pretty Quick to Start
For most service-oriented franchises — think painting companies, cleaning services, or landscaping — you can usually get up and running in about three months.
Sometimes it takes closer to six months.
Why the variation?
Getting your initial training done
Sorting out the legal paperwork
Setting up your business operations
Hiring your first team members
Once all that’s in place, you’re ready to serve customers.
So if you want something that feels like it can get off the ground quickly, service models might be a good fit.
Retail or Quick Service Restaurants: More Time to Plan
If your heart is set on opening a retail store or a quick service restaurant (QSR), be prepared to be patient.
Why?
Because these types of franchises rely heavily on location. And finding the right piece of real estate can take a while.
Then there’s:
Leasing negotiations
Permits and inspections
Construction or build-out
Hiring staff and training
All of this can easily push your timeline out to 12 to 18 months.
It’s a lot of moving pieces, but it’s also what helps ensure your business has the right foundation to thrive.
What Should You Keep in Mind?
When you’re looking at different franchise opportunities, it’s important to consider the timeline.
Here’s a quick recap:
Service franchises: 3 to 6 months to open
Retail/QSR franchises: 12 to 18 months to open
Knowing this upfront can help you plan your finances, your personal schedule, and your expectations.
It also means you can be patient with the process, instead of feeling rushed.
So, How Long Does It Take to Open a Franchise Business?
The truth is, it varies — but it’s never overnight.
Whether you’re starting a service business that’s ready in a few months or a restaurant that takes over a year, the key is to be prepared and enjoy the journey.
After all, good things take time.
And before you know it, you’ll have your own franchise business up and running.
*This is not an offer to sell a franchise. Franchise offerings are made only through the delivery of a Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD)*
