Franchises have long been using franchise-specific management software, tracking systems, and marketing tools to grow their business. But with complex franchise relationships, the rise of digital sales channels, and growing customer expectations, B2B eCommerce platforms are becoming the essential component of the tech stack.
Millennials are increasingly drawn to franchise ownership – this younger generation values the freedom of being their own boss. Millennials are now both the seller and buyer, and their affinity for digital channels and self-service means they expect the same from the industry, no matter what side of the relationship they are on.
Franchise businesses, too, are evolving. With increased competitive pressures in the market, the desire to maintain and grow market share, and the need for agility for the next disruption that comes along – all that is getting more eyes on digital commerce solutions.
Why Read This Guide?
The franchising business model encompasses hundreds of industries over various markets, degrees of consolidation, and disruption. The market is not only dynamic and competitive, it’s also profitable. In the United States alone, over $750,000 franchise businesses contribute more than $670 billion to the country’s gross domestic product.
That’s why we got together with Emakina, the leading digital services provider, to create a guide on Ecommerce for Franchise Businesses. We start with the introduction of the franchise industry and how technology and changing demographics are changing the industry.
Then, we talk about eCommerce’s role in franchising, how it supports various franchising models, and how franchises can take the first steps toward leveraging the power of digital commerce.
We share numerous case studies along the way, including a success story of a national liquor retailer. The franchise used B2B eCommerce to streamline back-office operations and deliver a pioneering digital experience for its partners and customers.
Guide to eCommerce for Franchising
Who Should Read This Guide?
This guide will help franchise decision-makers and team members understand how the industry is changing, and what options are available to drive successful business outcomes.
Readers will learn about the different franchising scenarios and ways digital commerce strategies and solutions can help their business. The guide is an excellent resource for:
- Franchisors and Franchisees
- Franchise Team Members
- C-Suite and Leadership Teams
- Digital Directors and eCommerce Leaders
- Business Development Managers
- Sales and Customer Success Teams
Recommended reading: MVP Guide for Ecommerce
Discover How Digital Commerce Technology Can Take Your Franchise Business to the Next Level
Some think that B2B eCommerce software is designed for B2B businesses and is unsuitable for franchise businesses, which are much more complex.
Indeed, franchise networks are unique because they rely on many interconnected relationships, many levels of responsibility, and many communication channels.
Thankfully, the advancement of digital technology, including digital commerce technology, makes it possible for franchises to grow their many interconnected networks, grow relationships within them, and improve the customer experience, often spread across franchise areas throughout regions and across borders.
And it doesn’t matter what franchise model you operate in!
Regardless of your line of business or geographic location, this guide will help you get an in-depth understanding of various franchising models, and the many ways digital commerce tools can help, and guide you to reach your online potential.
Download your copy of Guide to B2B eCommerce for Franchisors here.
