Franchise agreement


Franchise agreement

Contract by which a domestic company (franchisor) licenses its trade name and/or business system and practices for a fee to an independent company (franchisee) in a foreign market.

Franchise

An agreement in which an entrepreneur buys a license to use another business' products, brand, proprietary knowledge, and trade secrets. This allows the entrepreneur to start a business without building up his/her own brand or products. This is a common way to start a business, especially in highly competitive industries. An industry that utilizes franchises on a regular basis is fast food; because of stiff competition, it is generally more profitable for one who wishes to start a fast food restaurant to buy a franchise.