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How Top 5 Food Franchises in the World have Affected the Food Industry

Finding out minute details about the fast food industry is not a piece of cake as it’s much more gigantic than what you think it to be. If you live in the United States or even anywhere else in the world for that matter, fast food franchises are something that have become a part of your life . These have grabbed the attention of various financial experts is the changing dynamics of the industry. The last decade has been an absolute explosion of diversity in both the aspects – menu choices and restaurant concepts. This evolution reflects a dramatically emerging industry that has been responsive to changing food industry, and entrepreneurs finding niche opportunities to earn profits.

Even the statistics depict the similar story; globally fast food franchises generate revenue of over $570 billion that is a bigger figure than the economic value of most countries. Yes! It’s true, surprisingly though. There are more than 200,000 fast food franchises in the US, and it is estimated that 50 million Americans eat at one of them every single day.

Let’s find out the most popular food franchise brands that have set new benchmarks in terms of annual profits and turnovers for other brands. The companies you see below have been judged by Entrepreneur magazine on the basis of the brands’ financial strength and stability, market share, stocks, size, and startup cost. Just explore the jaw-dropping financial facts about a plethora of restaurant chain franchises; may be your favorite place also finds a spot on the list.

1. Jimmy John’s

This brand is the highest-ranked franchise among the long impressive FRANCHISE 500 for 2016, after finding a six slot in 2015. Its founder, Jimmy John Liautaud began his notable journey by offering free sandwiches to college students in Mattoon in 1980. And now, this sandwich joint has left all other competitors speechless with its heavy profit turnover figures.

• Started: 1983
• Franchising since: 1993
• Startup Costs: $323 K – $544 K
• Average Annual Gross Sales $1,326,276
• Average Net Profit from Operations $247,256

2. Subway

The next on the list is Subway that promotes the idea “eat fresh” from the day it was started. This franchise is owned and operated by Doctor’s Associates. This company collects 8% of revenue from each franchise. Presently, it owns 44,000 stores in 110 countries. The brand controls 60% of the quick-services-sandwich market in the US.

• Started: 1965
• Franchising since: 1974
• Startup Costs $116.6 K – $263.2k
• Brand Value $7.1 Billion (May 2016)
• Sales $19.2 B

3. McDonald’s

This food joint is one that has gained an impressive loyal customer base due to its high-quality products and prices, especially, in 2015 when it scored a good market share after introducing all-day breakfast in their menu which turned out to be a huge hit and contributed more money to its account. Mc Donald’s announced a record annual turnover of $27 bn as it continued to win more customers all around the world, including Asian countries. It vowed to open 1,300 outlets in different countries by the end of the year.

• Started: 1995
• Franchising since: 1955
• Number of franchise units in 2015-29, 712
• Startup Costs: $989.4 K-$2.2 M

4. Dunkin Donuts

The first Dunkin Donuts was started after the enormous success of Open Kettle in 1950 in Quincy, Massachusetts (USA). Presently, this popular coffee and baked product food chain can be found in more than 30 countries worldwide in over 10,000 locations. This place has turned out to be the leading Coffee and Baked Goods chain offering more than 900 million donuts and 1.5 billion cups of coffee in a year, globally. It is planning to spread its food web in various other locations.

• Started: 1950
• Franchising since: 1955
• Number of Franchised units in 2015: 11,460
• Startup Costs: $217.3K -$1.6M

5. Pizza Hut

This is one of the most popular food chains serving a slice of a giant piece with different toppings. The single agenda of this food chain in to boost their growth by serving good food to people all over the world. In 2016, they expect to open at least 525 new international restaurants and expect to grow operating profits 7% in constant currency.

• Started: 1958
• Franchising since: 1959
• Number of franchising units in 2015: 13,248
• Startup Costs: $297$- $2.1 M

Well, the fast food franchising industry is an institution; it’s here to stay for a long time. Although, the market and consumers’ changed eating habits have affected the franchising industry to a great extent. But it has fought back in an extraordinary way by making some changes here and there to regain its major portion in the food industry.

September 28, 2016
Why you need to choose the right collection agency service to recover your debt

Whether you own a start-up or an already successful business, there’s one thing that you will have to face and that is, the problem during collecting debts. Usually, in the big corporate houses, there is a separate department consisting of several skilled debt collectors who are solely responsible for collecting debts from customers or clients. But, in the case of start-ups, most of the owners cannot afford to hire professional collectors and create a separate department. So, this is when a person will need to hire a special agency that can help him/her get back the money they own. Do you know what these agencies or firms are called? No? These firms are called debt collection firms.

If you are thinking that find a debt collection agency/firm is a tough task, then you are wrong. There are numerous debt collection services throughout Houston, Texas. Why just Houston? You will find plenty of cities throughout the USA, where you will find plenty of collection agencies. So, just keep calm and search for a good one. But, make sure you hire a right debt collection firm only that will help you get back all your debts at ease. Wondering why is it important to choose a right debt collection service? Well, then here are some points that you must go through.

Take a look.

Reasons why you need a right firm for debt collection

• A right firm will save your time: Running behind a debtor is a really neck-cracking task for a person who is leading a business, especially if it is a start-up. Because, when you lead a startup, you will have to look into several big to minute details of your business and you will also have to help people learn how to work. So, giving time to run behind debtors is impossible for you. This is why most of them opt for hiring a debt collection agency so that they can get back all the money they had given. Therefore, don’t you think you need to be careful while choosing such an agency? If you choose a wrong agency, then they might take up ages to get back your debts. But, if you choose a right one, they will surely send emails and letters, call the debtors or even track them down if needed to get back your debt at ease. You will be sure to get back your money.

• A right firm will give your excellent expert advice: If you visit a well-known and experienced commercial collection agency, you can be rest assured that they will give you advice on various aspects of the debt collection process. They will not just give advice, but will act as a consultant and will help you improve your in-house money lending and collection practices. They might sometimes even provide financial consulting expertise.

• A right firm will have expert collectors who can collect debts effortlessly: There are many people who judge the collection service on the basis of their sky-scraping office. But, that is wrong. You must never judge such an agency by its outer look or its office. Always judge it by the debt collectors they have. When you visit such a firm, ask them to show the credentials or achievements of their past projects. If you feel their achievements and other credentials are worth applause, please hire it; or else, visit another firm. Without experienced debt collectors, it is impossible to get back the debts.

These were the three main reasons why you need a “right” debt collection firm. So, make it a point to search a right collection firm only.

Finding a right agency is not a tough task at all. All you need to do is either take recommendations from your close ones such as friends, relatives and so on. Or else, simply go through the internet. You can even find contacts of such firms through service directories. So, go through them and find a few business collection firms. If you ask me personally, I would always ask you to go through the internet because it is convenient and you’ll get plenty of results instantly. And the best part is, you can go to the agency’s website and check every single detail. After going through multiple firms, please make sure you compare their credentials, testimonials, reviews and even their fees and then only choose the one that you feel fits your needs.

Bran Grey currently works as a debt collector for a well-known collection agency service in Houston, which consists of experienced debt collectors. His articles will help you know more about debt collection agency.

September 26, 2016
What You Need to Know Before Applying for a Loan

Applying for a loan is probably everyone’s first thought when they lack money. However, while applying for one may be easy, getting the approval for a loan takes certain conditions. This is especially true in the recent years, since the global economic crisis has affected almost every country in the world. Nevertheless, getting a loan from the bank may be the only option for some people, so it’s important they know the basics before they decide to apply for the loan.

Credit Card as an Alternative

A personal loan is not the only form of credit. You can also consider getting a credit card, instead of applying for a loan. This is the cheap alternative, since it offers a 0 percent introductory offer on purchases. However, this can be a tricky payment method for those who enjoy shopping and don’t think much about the debt they’re making. Additionally, a long term loan is better option if you won’t be able to pay the credit card debt in time.

Interest Rate and APR

Interest rate and annual percentage rate can vary a lot, depending on your lender and your credit profile. If you have a good credit rating, a credit union or a bank you turned to for a loan will provide you with a very low interest. If, on the other hand, you ask a conventional finance company for a loan and your credit rating is poor, the interest rate will be higher than the one on the credit card. However, a huge advantage of conventional personal loan is that it’s not revolving credit, but installment based. This means that if you get an installment loan, the loan will reduce as you pay off each month.

Good Credit Score

When you decide to apply for a loan, the lender will most likely base their decision on your credit rating. It’s imperative that the credit score is flawless, and that you’re not already in debt to some other lender, or you’ll get a bad deal. What’s more, in some cases your load will be denied. If you ever get into trouble with credit rating, companies like Clean Credit can help you get a clean slate and have a piece of mind when it comes to your money.

Early Repayment

Even though you’re applying for a long term loan so that you can pay it off gradually, it’s possible that you’ll want to repay it earlier. However, this action will cost you, believe it or not. Many lenders will put a clause that says how much more money you’ll have to return in order to fully pay off the loan ahead time. Therefore, read the contract carefully, before you decide to take this step.

Payment Protection Insurance

If you’re unable to meet the repayments every month, payment protection insurance will be there to cover them. You might have a family emergency, like unemployment, sickness or an accident and so you won’t be able to repay the loan for that month. Therefore, search for the best deal and make sure you pay the loan regularly, one way, or the other. However, PPI isn’t mandatory, so if you don’t think you need to have one, don’t apply for it.

If you ever decide to apply for a loan, make sure you check the previous information in order to get the best possible deal. It’s important that you have a good credit rating, so that you can get a loan, and repay it on time. Make sure you are familiar with the basics of applying for a credit, so that you don’t end up with a too high repayment amount. Knowledge is power, so use it to your advantage.

September 22, 2016
Top 7 Habits of Successful Real Estate Investors
Real estate has long been known to be an ideal investment. It provides an avenue for establishing long-term wealth. Residential property, property management of commercial spaces and wholesaling are just some ways investors can profit from real estate. However, this career is a competitive path for investors, which may be a little bit tricky especially when you are a first timer.

The moment you decide to invest in a real estate such as the High Park, there are certain things to consider to achieve a desirable outcome. For real estate investors, they work hard to become financially stable as is necessary for their peace of mind. And to succeed, one must not only plan, but also observe these habits below.
1. Successful Real estate investors have a plan – and work it
You can never start your investment if you do not have any plans at all. What you want to do with the investments? How will you manage a property effectively? Do you have any idea on how real estate investment works? If you don’t have a concrete outline of your plan, this may be difficult for you to survive on the investment. Obviously, an effective plan is needed. Figuring out and execution of your plan is another thing you need to consider. Although sometimes it may be challenging on your part, it is still achievable when you are sure of the things you do.

2. Successful investors network

Since real estate investment is a competitive career, an investor should have the ability to get reliable information and advice to achieving a desirable outcome. Moreover, to succeed, it is advisable for investors to choose a mentor who is knowledgeable, motivating, accessible, and is known for high ethical and business standards. However, try not to depend too much on your mentor and always asking for information that you could get from a simple research.

3. Successful investors protect their assets

One of the most important things for a real estate investor is to safeguard their assets. Regardless of how much money you put on that particular investment, if you do not protect it, then it would only be useless. As an investor, it is a must for you to be mindful of creditors, plaintiffs, and the taxman. They are tedious, complicated, and time-consuming. And if you are not careful enough around them, this may be the end of your investment. Sure thing, you do not want to lose all of your effort in no time.

4. Successful investors have a code of ethics

When it comes to real estate, it is not just about purchasing a property or bricks and cash. In fact, it is about people. There will be no real estate business when there are no agents, contractors, sellers, renters and so on. And since real estate involves people, it is important to decide how you are going to treat them as you come into contact with each day.

5. Successful investors include their families

Just because it is a business, that does not mean you are not going to include your family. Engaging your family with the investment is not a bad thing at all. In fact, this is also one way you to get some suggestions and opinions from your family.

6. Successful investors treat everyone better than they expect them to be treated

Again, your attitude towards the people who are involved in the real estate business matters the most. When you extend a helping hand just to solve people’s problems, both profit and success will surely follow.

7. Successful investors stay educated

Every single day is a learning experience. Yes, cliché as it may seem, but it holds dear to those people who want to achieve success. Of course, investors should also learn from other successful investors – on how they got their achievements and other things that you ought to know. With this, you will have some ideas on that matter. Moreover, do not be afraid to share your knowledge with other investors – this is an excellent opportunity to exchange some thoughts on how to achieve a desirable outcome.

Being successful in the field of real estate is not just about getting the most what you want in life. It is also about how satisfied and happy you are with what you have. If you’re thinking about long-term investments, then reflect on how you can be happy in the future – and not just with the present.
September 15, 2016
Why Green Home Improvements are a Good Investment

When people think about investments, they usually think of a couple of commonplace options such as a retirement fund, maybe some stocks of purchasing some real estate somewhere sunny. Very rarely do they consider improvements on their existing home as investments. Considering how much these improvements can do to increase the value of one’s home and how good the ROI can be, it is wonder more people do not do it.

One of the ways to go is with green home improvements, i.e. those that make your home more environmentally friendly.

Why Green?

The first and the most important reason why you will want to go green with your home improvements is that the value of the home is increased due to these improvements. For example, it is estimated that installing a solar system increases the value of one’s home by $3 per watt of energy that can be produced by the system. The same goes for various other green improvements that you can invest in, such as new windows and doors or improved insulation.

What are the Options?

The good news is that there are almost innumerable green home improvements to choose from. What this means is that depending on your particular situation, you will still be able to find the improvement that will fit your budget and your needs.

One of the options are the so-called tankless water heaters. Instead of heating and keeping a certain amount of water hot at all times, these heaters only heat the water you are using. This not only saves on electricity, but also does great things to reduce your water consumption.

A programmable thermostat is another fantastic investment which is not that huge, especially when you consider the savings you make. This type of thermostat enables you to better control your A/C system, thus dramatically reducing the amount of electricity you waste on keeping your home at the perfect temperature.

While we are on the subject of reducing the amount of electricity you spend on air-conditioning, we should also mention ceiling fans. They might seem a bit old-school or even outdated, but in reality, they are a fantastic way to keep a room cold while spending only a fraction of the electricity that an A/C system uses. In the Mediterranean, you will discover that a vast majority of homes still feature fans instead of costly A/C systems.

Of course, there is also the option of installing an entire solar system which will provide your home with cleaner energy that will also be cheaper than using the more traditional electricity sources available in your area. With a comprehensive solar energy system, you can pretty much stop paying your electricity bills and perhaps even start selling the electricity to the local government.

Are Green Improvements Costly?

For the most part, green home improvements are not that expensive. For example, a programmable thermostat will cost you under $200 a year. A tankless water heater will cost under $2,000 and the savings you will make in both electricity and water will be huge.

Solar systems and similar, more comprehensive solutions can be somewhat expensive. Luckily, there are now new financing options that will make the initial investment much more manageable. With PACE, for example, you do not pay upfront for your green home improvements and instead, you pay them off over time, while still reaping the benefits immediately. You can find more about PACE financing at this link.

Closing Word

There is something very important that we should not forget about here. All of these green home improvements will also do great things for the environment. So, besides being a prudent investment option, these improvements will also help conserve the planet.

August 29, 2016
Earn Real Money with Online Jobs

We live in an age of the Internet and the online world has managed to slip into the world of professions. Freelance jobs have benefited the most out of this, not only by significantly having their income boosted, but also by adding some new extra professions that didn’t even exist before the popularization of the Internet. Here are some online jobs that actually really pay!

Writer

The written word has seen a major boost when it comes to job availability. There are many websites out there, such as iWriter, that offer many unique opportunities for all you wordsmiths out there. If you are able to meet challenging deadlines, you might earn a whole lot in short time frames. The only “problem” with freelance writing is outlined in the fact that you’ll have to be patient and persistent, earning next to nothing in the very beginning, until you level up to a trusted writer status. From that point on, however, you are looking at generous payments.

Web designer

This profession is online-specific; before the mainstream use of the Internet, it naturally didn’t exist. However, if you are looking to get a bit money on the side nowadays, you can get introduced to web design with little or no investment, in a matter of so much as weeks. Of course, if you are looking to really get paid, rather than earning a bit on the side, you could really get into this profession and taking some courses can make you as professional a web designer as web designers get. Instead of being hired for making websites for other people, with an amount of training and investment, you can make your own website and get paid by running it.

Website designer

Often confused with web designer, this profession is similar to the previously mentioned, yet different in some ways. The main difference between the two is this: as a web designer, you need to possess the qualities of a website designer and the ability to run your own website. On the other hand, as a website designer, you specify in creating websites for other people. You could make a buck on the side as a website designer, by coming up with template website designs and selling them to the highest bidder, however, if you want to earn real money, you should consider working by order. Although you may already be somewhat proficient in website design, you will need to get in touch with web design to a certain extent in order to become good enough for people to contact you to make their websites.

Online financial assistant

This online profession is a tad more serious than the previously mentioned. Although a diploma of financial planning is a requirement for this profession, if you are good at planning in general and know your way around money, it can go a long way in providing you some hefty full-time job earnings, without having to commute to work every day, enabling you to work from the comforts of your home.

Online reseller

Although this too can be done as a part-time profession by selling your unused items, you can really get into this profession, dedicating yourself to finding out what people need and finding those that want to sell the required item(s). You are more than a mediator here – you actually specialize in buying what is requested from you and selling at a higher price.

These professions can all be done as part-time jobs, but if you are looking to earn some real money, we suggest that you educate yourself as to how to become more professional in each department. In this way, you may benefit from a full-time job, done in less than an average workday – working hours are great and you are your own boss – something most of us dream of!

August 29, 2016