Behind the Counter: The Untold Story of Franchising
ABOUT THE SHOW
From burgers and fries to canines and coffee, "Behind the Counter: The Untold Story of Franchising," gives viewers an inside look at a trillion dollar industry.
CNBC’s Emmy Award winning correspondent Darren Rovell goes behind-the-scenes at Five Guys Burger and Fries to discover how the company’s enormous success has filtered down the supply chain. In 2009 sales grew by 70%, and with a ringing endorsement from President Obama, this franchise is well on the way to conquering America.
Rovell looks at why Procter & Gamble—the world’s largest consumer-products company—is dipping its toes into the franchising waters of two competitive service industries—dry cleaning and car washes—putting the well-respected reputation of Tide and Mr. Clean on the line.
The documentary also examines the lesser known risks of the franchising business showing how the American Dream can become a nightmare for some. Rovell tells the cautionary tale of Camp Bow Wow, a franchise built around America's love affair with its pets and reveals some of the potential pitfalls of the franchising industry. Rovell also uncovers why owning a well-known franchise like Cold Stone Creamery may be more challenging than it appears at first.
And the hour also looks at how and why Dunkin’ Donuts has become such a popular franchise for immigrants trying to get their piece of the American dream. “Behind the Counter” is a revealing one-hour exploration of the joy and pain of the franchise industry.
CNBC’s Emmy Award winning correspondent Darren Rovell goes behind-the-scenes at Five Guys Burger and Fries to discover how the company’s enormous success has filtered down the supply chain. In 2009 sales grew by 70%, and with a ringing endorsement from President Obama, this franchise is well on the way to conquering America.
Rovell looks at why Procter & Gamble—the world’s largest consumer-products company—is dipping its toes into the franchising waters of two competitive service industries—dry cleaning and car washes—putting the well-respected reputation of Tide and Mr. Clean on the line.
The documentary also examines the lesser known risks of the franchising business showing how the American Dream can become a nightmare for some. Rovell tells the cautionary tale of Camp Bow Wow, a franchise built around America's love affair with its pets and reveals some of the potential pitfalls of the franchising industry. Rovell also uncovers why owning a well-known franchise like Cold Stone Creamery may be more challenging than it appears at first.
And the hour also looks at how and why Dunkin’ Donuts has become such a popular franchise for immigrants trying to get their piece of the American dream. “Behind the Counter” is a revealing one-hour exploration of the joy and pain of the franchise industry.
PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS
Five Guys
Five Guys has already sold out all of its offered U.S. franchises. But that doesn’t mean it’s done growing. The company expects to open an astounding 2,250 more stores over the next eight years.Photo Credit: Brandi Sims
Five Guys has already sold out all of its offered U.S. franchises. But that doesn’t mean it’s done growing. The company expects to open an astounding 2,250 more stores over the next eight years.Photo Credit: Brandi Sims
Camp Bow Wow
The people who buy into the Camp Bow Wow dog day care and boarding franchise, all share a passion for pets. But finding a location can take years and the cost of opening a store can be high. The franchise doesn’t always bring in the expected profits.
(The story on Camp Bow Wow has been temporarily removed.)
Photo Credit: campbowwowusa.com
The people who buy into the Camp Bow Wow dog day care and boarding franchise, all share a passion for pets. But finding a location can take years and the cost of opening a store can be high. The franchise doesn’t always bring in the expected profits.
(The story on Camp Bow Wow has been temporarily removed.)
Photo Credit: campbowwowusa.com
Business Models
FTC rules don’t require a franchise to disclose historical financial information – the profits earned and fortunes lost. Without extensive government controls, its often up to the buyers to determine if a franchisor is offering a viable business plan.
Photo Credit: AP
FTC rules don’t require a franchise to disclose historical financial information – the profits earned and fortunes lost. Without extensive government controls, its often up to the buyers to determine if a franchisor is offering a viable business plan.
Photo Credit: AP
Procter & Gamble
Procter & Gamble, the world’s largest consumer products company, is diving into the franchise business. The company analyzed every product and service in the franchise sector. Two ranked at the top -- dry cleaners and car washes.
Photo Credit: Getty Images
Procter & Gamble, the world’s largest consumer products company, is diving into the franchise business. The company analyzed every product and service in the franchise sector. Two ranked at the top -- dry cleaners and car washes.
Photo Credit: Getty Images
Dunkin’ Donuts
Many immigrants from India, Pakistan and South Asia have contributed to the success of the Dunkin’ Donuts franchise business. Although owners are working for themselves, they aren’t operating alone. Family members are part of the success formula.
Photo Credit: Getty Images
Many immigrants from India, Pakistan and South Asia have contributed to the success of the Dunkin’ Donuts franchise business. Although owners are working for themselves, they aren’t operating alone. Family members are part of the success formula.
Photo Credit: Getty Images
CORRECTION
In our original report on Cold Stone Creamery, we described Cecil Rolle, a former franchisee who has been critical of the company as an attorney. Although Rolle is a law school graduate, he has never been admitted to the bar and is not an attorney. We regret the error.
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