(Watch) Franchises Help Create Jobs The franchise sector has not been immune to the challenges of the current economic climate. However, it has demonstrated resilience and continues to play a key role in contributing to the economy and creating jobs.
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Mark Rose, Head of New Business Development, on Nedbank Franchising
Recent statistics from the Franchise Association of South Africa reveal that the industry has grown to over 750 franchise systems, with nearly 35 000 franchise outlets, contributing an estimated 11,6% to South Africa's gross domestic product (GDP) through an estimated R493 billion in turnover in 2016. The franchise sector has helped create more than 350 000 jobs.
See money differently
Nedbank's new brand proposition encourages clients to "see money differently'. We have a broad spectrum of finance products available to clients who wish to become involved in franchising. This includes access to working capital facilities, asset-based finance loans, debtors finance and term loans to enable entrepreneurs to fulfil their dreams.
There are obvious benefits to purchasing a franchise rather than starting an entirely new business, since being linked to an existing brand established in the marketplace can make the financing process easier. We offer funding for all franchise models. However, preference is given to brands that demonstrate ethical behaviour, have operational structures in place and, most importantly, are able to offer their franchisees support, especially in difficult times.
As a bank for business, Nedbank's finance application approval rate is higher for franchises than for independent business, as we rely on the inherent benefits of a franchise system.
What we offer
Nedbank has customised packages for franchises that cover lending, transactional banking and value-adding and investment solutions.
Pre-negotiated pricing also provides the respective brands with upfront pricing on transactional banking services.
These are delivered through our local regional offices, which are supported by a centralised credit unit to ensure quick turnaround times on decisions.
Finance solutions for franchises include:
- New-store financing
- Financing for resale transactions
- Financing for multistore transactions
- Finance packages for alternative energy efficient solutions/projects
- Financing for revamps or refurbishment.
What we look for in a potential franchisee
As a bank our assessment of potential franchisees is based primarily on the viability of the business: affordability must be evident, location of the business must be sound, the franchisee must have sufficient experience and a healthy credit record, and the franchisor must provide a support mechanism.
Nedbank will assess the application in line with these requirements. The franchisee is generally required to invest 50% in unencumbered funds in the franchise. The finance gearing for the purchase of multiple stores is negotiable, depending on debt levels and performance of your existing outlet(s).
To ensure the success of franchisees Nedbank offers additional support in the form of transactional products and services, such as card acquiring services, merchant facilities and electronic banking, which have been designed to add value to franchisees, giving them the edge to succeed in a competitive environment.
Innovation for clients
Nedbank has also introduced a solution for franchisees who have to secure a fuel or rental guarantee, allowing franchisees to secure a guarantee without having to provide the bank with cash cover.
We also offer a variety of products, such as Market Edge, a first-in-market data analytics tool that enables clients to gain insights into their customers' behaviour and to develop strategies for their business on a multilayered, real-time and user-friendly dashboard.
GAP Access is another innovative product that enables the bank to provide Nedbank merchants with access to working capital, advanced against their point-of-sale (POS) terminal turnover. Repayments are made daily as a small percentage of card turnover, while cashflow is tracked and the merchant is net-settled.
Nedbank Business Banking
Our tailored solutions take franchisees' current and future goals into consideration, and aim to assist franchises in attaining the competitive edge needed to succeed. A dedicated business banker gives franchise owners the opportunity to have an experienced financial expert as a partner in their business.
For more information on franchising email us at franchising@nedbank.co.za.
