What Is Franchise Validation and Why Is It Important?
A friend of mine recently told me they were thinking about buying a franchise.
We talked about startup costs, branding, location — all the usual stuff.
But when I asked,
“Have you done franchise validation yet?”
they just blinked at me.
So let’s talk about what that means.
It’s Basically a Gut Check
Franchise validation is when you, as a potential franchisee, talk directly to the people already living it.
Not the brand.
Not the marketing team.
Not the guy who sold you the dream.
Actual franchisees.
People who opened the doors, hired the team, ran into the real-life challenges — and kept going.
They know the good days and the hard ones.
And they’ll tell you things no brochure ever will.
What Should You Ask?
These conversations can feel a little intimidating at first.
But they don’t have to be formal. Think of it like asking a neighbor for advice.
Here are a few questions that really matter:
How was the training?
Do you feel supported by the corporate team?
Are you profitable?
Would you buy this franchise again if you had the chance?
What surprised you — good or bad?
Don’t rush it.
Take notes.
And really listen.
These chats can be gold.
Why It’s So Important
Franchise validation helps you cut through the hype.
It shows you whether the business actually delivers on what it promises.
Because at the end of the day, anyone can tell you “it’s a great opportunity.”
But the people who’ve lived it? They’ll tell you the truth.
If every franchisee sounds stressed, overwhelmed, or unsupported — that’s a red flag.
If they’re happy, stable, and growing — that’s a pretty good sign you’re on the right path.
A Step You Shouldn’t Skip
It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of a new venture.
But before you sign anything, do the validation.
You’ll feel more grounded.
More informed.
More clear about whether this business is truly a fit for you.
It’s one of the most important steps in the whole process — and the one that too many people skip.
So… What Is Franchise Validation and Why Is It Important?
It’s your behind-the-scenes look.
It’s your chance to talk to the people who’ve already made the leap.
And most of all, it’s your moment to find out if this is something you really want to be a part of.
Ask the questions.
Have the conversations.
Trust what you hear.
It’ll tell you more than a glossy brochure ever could.
*This is not an offer to sell a franchise. Franchise offerings are made only through the delivery of a Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD)*
