The Hidden Costs of Working with a Franchise

At first glance, franchising seems like a safe bet—instant brand recognition, a pre-built system, and corporate support. But for many wellness-focused entrepreneurs, the reality feels more like restriction than relief.

Franchises often come with high fees, strict branding rules, and limited menu flexibility. Want to swap out ingredients for something cleaner or local? You'll likely need approval. Want to run a promo or switch up your social media? There’s a system—and a delay—for that too.

Worse yet, you’re constantly handing over a portion of your hard-earned revenue through royalties and vendor markups. Even when your store is thriving, it can feel like you’re working for them, not for yourself.

For those passionate about creating something truly their own—something rooted in values, not just profit margins—franchising can become more of a cage than a shortcut.