{"id":36067,"date":"2026-04-14T09:00:00","date_gmt":"2026-04-14T13:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/?p=36067"},"modified":"2026-04-14T08:54:30","modified_gmt":"2026-04-14T12:54:30","slug":"franchise-restaurant-business-plan","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/franchise-restaurant-business-plan\/","title":{"rendered":"How to create a franchise restaurant business plan"},"content":{"rendered":"<header class=\"entry-header has-dark-background-color entry-header--standard entry-header--has-illustration entry-header--has-illustration--standard\">\n\t<div class=\"container\">\n\t\t<div class=\"entry-header__row row align-center\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"col col-lg-7 col-xlg-6 entry-header__content\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"component component-single-header\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"entry-header__misc text--subtitle text--uppercase text--small\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/category\/strategy-legal-operations\/\" class=\"entry-header__link\">Strategy, Legal &amp; Operations<\/a>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"entry-title-wrapper\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h1 class=\"entry-title\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\tHow to create a franchise restaurant business plan\t\t\t\t\t<\/h1>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p class=\"entry-header__description\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\tIf you\u2019re planning to open a franchise restaurant, a solid business plan is an important ingredient in your recipe for success. Here\u2019s what a business plan is, why it matters, and how to create one the right way.\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n\t\t<div class=\"single-post-details container\">\n\t\t<div class=\"col\">\n\t\t\t<span class=\"posted-on \">Published <time class=\"entry-date published\" datetime=\"2026-04-14T09:00:00-04:00\">April 14, 2026<\/time><\/span><span class=\"reading-time\"> min read<\/span>\n\t\t<button\n\t\t\ttype=\"button\"\n\t\t\tclass=\"social-share-button button button--icon button--secondary js-social-share-button\"\n\t\t\tdata-share-title=\"How to create a franchise restaurant business plan\"\n\t\t\tdata-share-url=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/franchise-restaurant-business-plan\/\"\n\t\t\tdata-share-text=\"Please read this interesting article\"\n\t\t>\n\t\t\t<span class=\"social-share-button__share-label\">Share<\/span>\n\t\t\t<span class=\"social-share-button__copy-label\" hidden>Copy Link<\/span>\n\t\t\t<span class=\"social-share-button__copy-tooltip\" aria-hidden=\"true\" hidden>Copied<\/span>\n\t\t<\/button>\n\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n\t<\/header>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-post-author has-dark-background-color alignfull\">\n\t<div class=\"container\">\n\t\t<div class=\"col\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"co-authors\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t<div class=\"entry-author-wrapper\">\n\t\t\t<a class=\"entry-author\" href=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/author\/joechurchwoods\/\">\n\t\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"40\" height=\"40\" src=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2025\/05\/Joe-Yard-2-crop-350x350.jpg\" class=\"entry-author__image\" alt=\"Joe Church Woods\" \/>\t\t\t\t<span class=\"entry-author__name\">Joe Church Woods<\/span>\n\t\t\t<\/a>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you\u2019re getting ready to buy into a franchise, you\u2019re already ahead of the game. You\u2019re starting with an established brand, a proven menu, and a playbook for day-to-day operations. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Still, you\u2019ll need a franchise restaurant business plan to win franchisor approval, secure funding, and stay organized once you open.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Following a step-by-step approach can help you to create a business plan for a franchise business that impresses lenders and franchisors, avoids common pitfalls, and gives you a clear, actionable roadmap you can use to keep your franchise on track from day one.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Here\u2019s what we\u2019ll cover:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n<?xml encoding=\"utf-8\" ?><div class=\"wp-block-yoast-seo-table-of-contents yoast-table-of-contents\"><ul><li><a href=\"#h-what-is-a-franchise-business-plan-and-why-does-it-matter\" data-level=\"2\">What is a franchise business plan, and why does it matter?<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-defining-your-franchise-concept-and-business-description\" data-level=\"2\">Defining your franchise concept and business description<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-researching-the-market-and-local-competition\" data-level=\"2\">Researching the market and local competition<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-planning-daily-operations-and-management-structure\" data-level=\"2\">Planning daily operations and management structure<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-developing-a-sales-and-marketing-strategy\" data-level=\"2\">Developing a sales and marketing strategy<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-creating-realistic-financial-projections-for-your-franchise-business-plan\" data-level=\"2\">Creating realistic financial projections for your franchise business plan<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-legal-and-franchise-disclosure-considerations\" data-level=\"2\">Legal and franchise disclosure considerations<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-funding-sources-for-your-franchise-restaurant-business-plan\" data-level=\"2\">Funding sources for your franchise restaurant business plan<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-common-franchise-business-plan-pitfalls-and-how-to-overcome-them\" data-level=\"2\">Common franchise business plan pitfalls and how to overcome them<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-final-thoughts\" data-level=\"2\">Final thoughts<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-faqs-about-franchise-restaurant-business-plans\" data-level=\"2\">FAQs about franchise restaurant business plans<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-what-is-a-franchise-business-plan-and-why-does-it-matter\">What is a franchise business plan, and why does it matter?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A franchise business plan is a structured document that explains how your franchise location will operate, compete, and generate profit. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Think of it as your proof that you can run a successful restaurant within the franchisor\u2019s system.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Having a strong business plan for a franchise restaurant matters because it helps you:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Secure financing from banks and investors by clearly laying out your numbers, assumptions, and repayment plan.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Meet franchisor requirements, as many will want to review a detailed business plan or key sections of it before giving final approval.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Stay organized once you\u2019re busy by giving yourself a clear reference point for staffing, costs, marketing, and growth decisions.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Build confidence with stakeholders by turning your idea into specific, actionable steps.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-defining-your-franchise-concept-and-business-description\">Defining your franchise concept and business description<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A clear business description explains what you are building, how it fits the franchisor\u2019s brand, and why your location can succeed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-1-describe-your-unique-offerings\">1. Describe your unique offerings<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Start with what customers will experience. Lenders want to see demand, and franchisors want consistency. Cover the basics, including:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Menu highlights, such as your best-known items or core categories.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Service style, such as quick service, fast casual, or full service.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Customer experience, such as family-friendly dining, grab-and-go convenience, or late-night service.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Then, highlight elements specific to your location that fit the brand\u2019s guidelines. This might include plans for community involvement, local partnerships, or positioning in the neighborhood (e.g., becoming the go-to lunch spot near an office park).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-2-explain-the-franchisor-s-brand-standards\">2. Explain the franchisor\u2019s brand standards<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Show that you understand the franchisor\u2019s requirements, and you are prepared to follow them. This builds confidence with both the franchisor and your lender.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Here are some examples of what to include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Supplier agreements:<\/strong> approved vendors, ingredients, and packaging.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Location layout:<\/strong> footprint, kitchen flow, signage, and seating plans.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Operational protocols:<\/strong> standard procedures, food safety requirements, prep methods, service. benchmarks<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-3-identify-your-target-customers\">3. Identify your target customers<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Define who you will serve locally and why that audience fits the franchise. Include details such as:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Demographics:<\/strong> age, income, household type.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Dining habits:<\/strong> weeknight takeout, weekend family dining, lunch rush patterns.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Lifestyle cues:<\/strong> commuters, students, tourists, nearby employers.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Then, connect these details to your positioning. For example, if your location has strong weekday foot traffic and lots of working professionals, that supports a quick-service or fast-casual model.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-researching-the-market-and-local-competition\">Researching the market and local competition<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This step shows that your franchise can succeed in your specific market, not just as a national brand.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-1-outline-key-demographic-data\">1. Outline key demographic data<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Use credible sources of demographic information and keep your plan practical. Good sources include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Census or local government reports<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Chamber of commerce or economic development profiles<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Franchisor market studies<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Focus on factors that shape restaurant demand, like population size, growth trends, median income, daytime population, and lifestyle indicators.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-2-conduct-a-competitor-review\">2. Conduct a competitor review<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">List your direct and indirect competitors, then identify their strengths, weaknesses, and gaps they\u2019ve left in the market. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A simple comparison table can help to visualize the competitive landscape:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><tbody><tr><td><strong>Competitor<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Category<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Strength<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Gap to fill<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Local burger spot<\/td><td>Direct<\/td><td>Loyal customers<\/td><td>No online ordering<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>National chain nearby<\/td><td>Direct<\/td><td>Convenience<\/td><td>Weak reviews and service<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Grocery deli<\/td><td>Indirect<\/td><td>Low price<\/td><td>Limited hot meals<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-3-analyze-the-real-estate-and-foot-traffic\">3. Analyze the real estate and foot traffic<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Show that you have looked beyond \u201cthis is a good area\u201d and paid attention to the details lenders care about:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Visibility and signage.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Parking and accessibility.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Proximity to anchors such as grocery stores, gyms, offices, and schools.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Traffic patterns, like the weekday lunch flow and weekend family activity.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Also mention any franchisor site-selection requirements, as location approval is often part of the franchise process.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-planning-daily-operations-and-management-structure\">Planning daily operations and management structure<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Lenders fund execution, not ideas. Your operations plan demonstrates that you can run the restaurant smoothly day to day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-1-front-of-house-protocols\">1. Front-of-house protocols<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Explain how service will work, including:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Greeting and seating flow.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Order-taking and payment processes.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Guest recovery, or how you handle issues and complaints.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Speed-of-service expectations.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-2-back-of-house-operations\">2. Back-of-house operations<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This is where consistency and cost control are key. Cover:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Food prep workflows and station setup.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Inventory management and ordering schedule.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Receiving and storage standards for deliveries.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Quality checks and food safety compliance.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-3-staffing-levels-and-training\">3. Staffing levels and training<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Outline your staffing plan, including:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Key roles such as front of house, back of house, shift leads, and a general manager.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Your hiring timeline, especially before opening.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Your training plan, including franchisor training and ongoing local coaching.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Estimated headcount by shift and daypart.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-developing-a-sales-and-marketing-strategy\">Developing a sales and marketing strategy<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Even with brand recognition, you&#8217;ll need a plan to build awareness of your business and drive repeat visits.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-1-local-advertising-and-promotions\">1. Local advertising and promotions<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Consider including:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>A grand opening plan, including a soft opening and launch-week offers.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Local sponsorships, such as schools, sports teams, and community events.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Direct mail or neighborhood flyers if they make sense for your area.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Partnerships with nearby businesses.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-2-digital-marketing-and-social-media\">2. Digital marketing and social media<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Keep this simple and execution-focused:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Google Business Profile setup and optimization.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Review management, especially during the first 90 days.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A social posting rhythm that feels local, authentic, and brand-aligned.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Email or SMS campaigns, if allowed by the franchisor.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-3-leveraging-franchisor-support\">3. Leveraging franchisor support<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Explain which national marketing efforts support your location and what you will handle locally. This lowers perceived risk and shows you\u2019re not starting from scratch or relying on corporate marketing to do all the work.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-creating-realistic-financial-projections-for-your-franchise-business-plan\">Creating realistic financial projections for your franchise business plan<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This section of your business plan can make a lender lean in or stop reading.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-1-startup-costs-and-operating-budgets\">1. Startup costs and operating budgets<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Include major upfront expenses, such as:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Franchise fee<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Lease deposit and buildout or tenant improvements<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Equipment and fixtures<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Initial inventory and smallware<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Permits, licenses, and insurance<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Working capital, or your cash buffer<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A table can help to clearly organize your <a href=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/accounting-software\/startup-costs\/restaurant\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">restaurant costs<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><tbody><tr><td><strong>Cost category<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Examples<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Franchise and legal<\/td><td>Franchise fee, attorney review, entity setup<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Real estate buildout<\/td><td>Deposit, renovations, signage<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Equipment<\/td><td>Ovens, refrigeration, POS hardware<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Opening inventory<\/td><td>Food, packaging, cleaning supplies<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Working capital<\/td><td>Payroll, rent, utilities buffer<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-2-sales-forecasting-and-revenue-streams\">2. Sales forecasting and revenue streams<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">State your assumptions clearly, including:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Average check size<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Customer count by daypart<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Seating capacity and turnover<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Seasonality<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Then, list your revenue streams, such as dine-in, takeout, delivery, catering, and third-party platforms.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Also consider the estimated Average Unit Volume (AUV) in this section of the business plan. This is the average annual gross sales generated by a single, operating franchise location within a specific brand.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-3-break-even-analysis-and-profitability\">3. Break-even analysis and profitability<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Show when the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/how-to-balance-restaurant-costs-and-quality\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">business will become self-sustaining<\/a>, accounting for fixed costs, such as rent, insurance, and base labor, as well as variable costs, such as food, hourly labor, and delivery fees.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Use conservative assumptions and a realistic ramp-up period, typically 12 to 24 months.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-legal-and-franchise-disclosure-considerations\">Legal and franchise disclosure considerations<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This section of your business plan helps you avoid expensive surprises.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-1-reviewing-the-franchise-disclosure-document-fdd\">1. Reviewing the Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The FDD explains fees, obligations, restrictions, litigation history, and sometimes financial performance representations. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">By law, you must receive the FDD at least 14 days before you sign any contract or pay any money to the franchisor or its affiliates. Review it carefully with a franchise attorney.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-2-understanding-the-seven-day-rule\">2. Understanding the seven-day rule<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If the franchisor gives you a final agreement that\u2019s materially different from the version you previously received with the FDD, the Federal Trade Commission mandates that you must be given at least seven days to review the terms before signing anything or paying any fees. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Do not let anyone rush you into signing something before you\u2019ve had time to review it thoroughly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-3-compliance-with-local-regulations\">3. Compliance with local regulations<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Identify the permits and licenses you will need, such as:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Health department approvals<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Food handler or manager certifications<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Business registration<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Zoning clearances<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Liquor license, if applicable<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-funding-sources-for-your-franchise-restaurant-business-plan\">Funding sources for your franchise restaurant business plan<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Franchise financing often comes from a mix of personal investment, debt, and sometimes partners.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-1-traditional-bank-loans\">1. Traditional bank loans<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Banks typically evaluate:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Your credit profile<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Collateral and liquidity<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The strength of your plan and projections<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Industry or operator experience<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-2-small-business-administration-sba-programs\">2. Small Business Administration (SBA) programs<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Two common SBA-backed options are:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>SBA 7(a): <\/strong>the SBA\u2019s primary loan program. It can be used for working capital, equipment, and real estate.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>SBA 504: <\/strong>long-term, fixed-rate financing for major fixed assets, like real estate and large equipment.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-3-private-investors-or-partnerships\">3. Private investors or partnerships<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Partners can reduce your personal cash burden, but you will need clear agreements on:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Ownership percentages<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Decision rights<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Profit distribution<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Exit terms<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-4-franchisor-financing-options\">4. Franchisor financing options<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Some franchisors offer in-house financing or relationships with preferred lenders. Clarify:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>What they cover, such as fees, buildout, or equipment.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Pros, such as a streamlined process.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Cons, such as limited flexibility or specific terms.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"single-cta gated-content\">\n\t<div class=\"single-cta__positioner on-scroll-highlight__target\">\n\t\t<div class=\"single-cta__wrapper has-dark-background-color\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"single-cta__content\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"single-cta__title h3\">Business plan template<\/h2>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"single-cta__description\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<p>Our free and easy-to-use template gives you a solid starting point for your restaurant franchise business plan. <\/p>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<a\n\t\t\t\t\t\thref=\"#gate-be146148-3cb1-4acb-9d69-5e3256e69dc3\"\n\t\t\t\t\t\tclass=\"single-cta__button button button--primary\"\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t>Download your free business plan template<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"single-cta__downloads\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t54,269 readers have downloaded this template\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1440\" height=\"810\" src=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2022\/04\/GettyImages-965936890-1440x810.jpg\" class=\"single-cta__image\" alt=\"\" loading=\"lazy\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2022\/04\/GettyImages-965936890-1440x810.jpg 1440w\" sizes=\"auto, (min-width: 48em) 33vw, 100vw\" \/>\t\t\t<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-common-franchise-business-plan-pitfalls-and-how-to-overcome-them\">Common franchise business plan pitfalls and how to overcome them<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Even prepared franchisees hit bumps, but your plan should anticipate potential risks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-1-underestimating-operating-costs\">1. Underestimating operating costs<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Common surprises include equipment repairs, higher labor costs, and a slower-than-expected ramp-up. Build a conservative budget and keep a working capital cushion.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-2-weak-local-marketing-plans\">2. Weak local marketing plans<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">National marketing helps, but local engagement drives repeat visits. Plan community events, local promotions, and review management from day one.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-3-insufficient-staffing-and-training\">3. Insufficient staffing and training<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Understaffing hurts service and burns out your team. Hire ahead of peak periods, and treat training as an ongoing process, not a one-time event.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-final-thoughts\">Final thoughts<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A strong franchise restaurant business plan helps you win franchisor approval, secure financing, and give yourself a clear roadmap for opening and day-to-day operations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">And once you are open, the right <a href=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/franchise-accounting\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">franchise accounting<\/a> software can help you stay on track by monitoring cash flow, tracking food and labor costs, and generating clean reports when investors or lenders ask for updates.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Discover how <a href=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/industry\/hospitality\/restaurants\/franchise\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Sage accounting software for restaurant franchises<\/a> can help you organize your plan and manage your numbers with confidence.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-faqs-about-franchise-restaurant-business-plans\">FAQs about franchise restaurant business plans<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-do-i-need-a-business-plan-to-open-a-franchise-restaurant\">Do I need a business plan to open a franchise restaurant?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You may not be legally required to have one, but you will usually need a business plan to secure financing and show the franchisor that you are ready to operate.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-how-much-money-do-you-need-to-start-a-restaurant-franchise\">How much money do you need to start a restaurant franchise?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It depends on the brand, buildout requirements, and location. Your business plan should include a detailed startup cost table and enough working capital, so you don\u2019t start out cash-tight in month one.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-what-are-the-4-ps-of-franchising\">What are the 4 Ps of franchising?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The 4 Ps typically refer to the core building blocks of franchising: the product or concept, the process or system, the people, and the profit. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Your business plan should address each through operations, staffing, and financial projections.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-how-long-should-a-franchise-restaurant-business-plan-be\">How long should a franchise restaurant business plan be?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A business plan should be long enough to be clear and defensible. Many are 15 to 30 pages long, plus financial tables and supporting documents. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Focus on how to create a franchise business plan that\u2019s clear and realistic rather than worrying about its length.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-can-i-use-a-template-for-my-franchise-restaurant-business-plan\">Can I use a template for my franchise restaurant business plan?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Yes. A template is a strong starting point. Just customize it to your local market, franchisor requirements, and realistic numbers. Lenders can quickly spot a plan that feels generic.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"single-cta gated-content\">\n\t<div class=\"single-cta__positioner on-scroll-highlight__target\">\n\t\t<div class=\"single-cta__wrapper has-dark-background-color\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"single-cta__content\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"single-cta__title h3\">Business plan template<\/h2>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"single-cta__description\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<p>Get started on your restaurant franchise business plan today with our free and easy-to-use template.<\/p>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<a\n\t\t\t\t\t\thref=\"#gate-be146148-3cb1-4acb-9d69-5e3256e69dc3\"\n\t\t\t\t\t\tclass=\"single-cta__button button button--primary\"\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t>Download your free business plan template<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"single-cta__downloads\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t54,269 readers have downloaded this template\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1440\" height=\"810\" src=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2022\/04\/GettyImages-965936890-1440x810.jpg\" class=\"single-cta__image\" alt=\"\" loading=\"lazy\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2022\/04\/GettyImages-965936890-1440x810.jpg 1440w\" sizes=\"auto, (min-width: 48em) 33vw, 100vw\" \/>\t\t\t<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><a id=\"_msocom_1\"><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n\n<section class=\"more-topics alignfull has-grey-light-background-color wp-block-sage-post-topics\">\n\t<div class=\"container\">\n\t\t<div class=\"row\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"col col-12 col-lg-4\">\n\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"more-topics__title h2\">Browse more topics from this article<\/h3>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<div class=\"col col-12 col-lg-8\">\n\t\t\t\t<ul class=\"post-tags__list\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"post-tags__item\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/hub\/boss-your-business\/\" class=\"post-tags__link button button--secondary\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tBoss your business\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"post-tags__item\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/hub\/business-continuity\/\" class=\"post-tags__link button button--secondary\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tBusiness Continuity\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"post-tags__item\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/hub\/business-strategy\/\" class=\"post-tags__link button button--secondary\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tBusiness strategy\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"post-tags__item\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/hub\/food-beverage\/\" class=\"post-tags__link button button--secondary\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tFood &amp; beverage\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"post-tags__item\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/hub\/growing-a-business\/\" class=\"post-tags__link button button--secondary\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tGrowing a business\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"post-tags__item\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/hub\/productivity\/\" class=\"post-tags__link button button--secondary\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tProductivity\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"post-tags__item\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/hub\/small-business\/\" class=\"post-tags__link button button--secondary\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tSmall business\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"post-tags__item\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/hub\/starting-a-business\/\" class=\"post-tags__link button button--secondary\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tStarting a business\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"post-tags__item\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/hub\/staying-competitive\/\" class=\"post-tags__link button button--secondary\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tStay competitive\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/ul>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n<\/section>\n\n<div class=\"alignfull wp-block-sage-related-posts\">\n\t<section class=\"related-posts card-grid has-dark-background-color\">\n\t<div class=\"container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"row\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"col\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"related-posts__heading related-posts__heading--featured h1\">Explore more wisdom<\/h2>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t<div class=\"row related-posts__featured\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"col card-grid__item\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<article\n\t\tclass=\"card-post related-post related-post-0 post-29452 post type-post status-publish format-standard has-post-thumbnail hentry category-accountants category-money-matters category-strategy-legal-operations category-trends-insights tag-accounting-101 tag-automation tag-cash-flow tag-small-business business_type-small-business business_type-accountants card-post--is-clickable\"\n>\n\t<div class=\"card-post__media-wrapper\">\n\t\t<figure class=\"card-post__media\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1215\" height=\"810\" src=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/09\/GettyImages-1327235816-1215x810.jpg\" class=\"card-post__image\" alt=\"\" loading=\"lazy\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/09\/GettyImages-1327235816-684x384.jpg 684w, https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/09\/GettyImages-1327235816-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/09\/GettyImages-1327235816-1215x810.jpg 1215w\" sizes=\"auto, (min-width: 48em) 250px, (min-width: 30em) 100vw, 100vw\" \/>\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/figure>\n\t<\/div>\n\n\t<div class=\"card-post__content\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"card-post__label\">Recommended<\/div>\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"card-post__meta\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"card-post__meta-text\"><span class=\"posted-on \"><time class=\"entry-date published\" datetime=\"2026-08-17T09:38:19-04:00\">August 17, 2026<\/time><\/span><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"card-post__meta-text\"><span class=\"reading-time\">10 min read<\/span><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\n\t\t<p class=\"card-post__title h3\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<a\n\t\t\t\t\tclass=\"card-post__title-link\"\n\t\t\t\t\thref=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/accounts-payable-asset-or-liability\/\"\n\t\t\t\t>\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tIs accounts payable an asset or a liability?\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<p class=\"card-post__description\">\n\t\t\t\tIs accounts payable an asset or a liability? Accounts payable is a current liability because it represents money your business owes to suppliers. Learn where it appears on the balance sheet and why this classification matters.\t\t\t<\/p>\n\t\t\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t<\/article>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"row related-posts__non-featured\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"col col-12\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"related-posts__heading related-posts__heading--more h4\">More on this Topic<\/h2>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"col col-6 col-lg-3 card-grid__item\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<article\n\t\tclass=\"card-post related-post related-post-1 post-31994 post type-post status-publish format-standard has-post-thumbnail hentry category-people-leadership tag-hiring tag-hr-software tag-leadership tag-performance tag-productivity tag-small-business business_type-small-business business_type-growing-business\"\n>\n\t\t\t<a\n\t\t\tclass=\"card-post__link\"\n\t\t\thref=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/what-is-a-performance-management-system\/\"\n\t\t\t\t\t>\n\t\t\t<figure class=\"card-post__media\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" width=\"684\" height=\"384\" src=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2025\/03\/BrandShoot-LND_June2024_Financial-Services_0546-copy-1-684x384.jpeg\" class=\"card-post__image\" alt=\"Two colleagues meet in a modern office.\" loading=\"lazy\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2025\/03\/BrandShoot-LND_June2024_Financial-Services_0546-copy-1-684x384.jpeg 684w, https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2025\/03\/BrandShoot-LND_June2024_Financial-Services_0546-copy-1-768x512.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2025\/03\/BrandShoot-LND_June2024_Financial-Services_0546-copy-1-1214x810.jpeg 1214w\" sizes=\"auto, (min-width: 48em) 250px, (min-width: 30em) 100vw, 100vw\" \/>\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/figure>\n\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"card-post__meta\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"card-post__meta-text\"><span class=\"posted-on \"><time class=\"entry-date published\" datetime=\"2026-08-17T09:24:36-04:00\">August 17, 2026<\/time><\/span><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"card-post__meta-text\"><span class=\"reading-time\">15 min read<\/span><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\n\t\t<p class=\"card-post__title h5\">\n\t\t\tPerformance management systems: A practical guide\t\t<\/p>\n\n\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t<\/article>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"col col-6 col-lg-3 card-grid__item\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<article\n\t\tclass=\"card-post related-post related-post-2 post-23456 post type-post status-publish format-standard has-post-thumbnail hentry category-money-matters tag-accounting-101 tag-boss-your-business tag-small-business tag-staying-competitive business_type-small-business\"\n>\n\t\t\t<a\n\t\t\tclass=\"card-post__link\"\n\t\t\thref=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/how-to-write-an-invoice\/\"\n\t\t\t\t\t>\n\t\t\t<figure class=\"card-post__media\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" width=\"684\" height=\"384\" src=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2022\/04\/GettyImages-642394299-684x384.jpg\" class=\"card-post__image\" alt=\"\" loading=\"lazy\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2022\/04\/GettyImages-642394299-684x384.jpg 684w, https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2022\/04\/GettyImages-642394299-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2022\/04\/GettyImages-642394299-1440x810.jpg 1440w\" sizes=\"auto, (min-width: 48em) 250px, (min-width: 30em) 100vw, 100vw\" \/>\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/figure>\n\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"card-post__meta\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"card-post__meta-text\"><span class=\"posted-on \"><time class=\"entry-date published\" datetime=\"2026-07-31T07:18:42-04:00\">July 31, 2026<\/time><\/span><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"card-post__meta-text\"><span class=\"reading-time\">15 min read<\/span><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\n\t\t<p class=\"card-post__title h5\">\n\t\t\tHow to write an invoice and what to include\t\t<\/p>\n\n\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t<\/article>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"col col-6 col-lg-3 card-grid__item\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<article\n\t\tclass=\"card-post related-post related-post-3 post-13533 post type-post status-publish format-standard has-post-thumbnail hentry category-money-matters tag-accounting-101 tag-boss-your-business tag-business-continuity tag-cash-flow tag-productivity tag-small-business business_type-small-business business_type-growing-business\"\n>\n\t\t\t<a\n\t\t\tclass=\"card-post__link\"\n\t\t\thref=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/why-you-should-be-doing-cash-flow-analysis\/\"\n\t\t\t\t\t>\n\t\t\t<figure class=\"card-post__media\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" width=\"684\" height=\"384\" src=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2022\/12\/BrandShootLDN_Dec2021_Construction_0014-JPG-Sage-Advice-684x384.jpeg\" class=\"card-post__image\" alt=\"Construction professional at desk\" loading=\"lazy\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2022\/12\/BrandShootLDN_Dec2021_Construction_0014-JPG-Sage-Advice-684x384.jpeg 684w, https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2022\/12\/BrandShootLDN_Dec2021_Construction_0014-JPG-Sage-Advice-768x512.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2022\/12\/BrandShootLDN_Dec2021_Construction_0014-JPG-Sage-Advice-1215x810.jpeg 1215w\" sizes=\"auto, (min-width: 48em) 250px, (min-width: 30em) 100vw, 100vw\" \/>\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/figure>\n\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"card-post__meta\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"card-post__meta-text\"><span class=\"posted-on \"><time class=\"entry-date published\" datetime=\"2026-07-31T05:12:45-04:00\">July 31, 2026<\/time><\/span><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"card-post__meta-text\"><span class=\"reading-time\">16 min read<\/span><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\n\t\t<p class=\"card-post__title h5\">\n\t\t\tCash flow analysis guide: Definition, steps, and examples\u00a0\t\t<\/p>\n\n\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t<\/article>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"col col-6 col-lg-3 card-grid__item\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<article\n\t\tclass=\"card-post related-post related-post-4 post-23890 post type-post status-publish format-standard has-post-thumbnail hentry category-money-matters tag-accounting-101 tag-small-business business_type-small-business\"\n>\n\t\t\t<a\n\t\t\tclass=\"card-post__link\"\n\t\t\thref=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/income-statement-template\/\"\n\t\t\t\t\t>\n\t\t\t<figure class=\"card-post__media\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" width=\"684\" height=\"384\" src=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2022\/04\/GettyImages-1279589946-684x384.jpg\" class=\"card-post__image\" alt=\"woman putting on headset working on computer\" loading=\"lazy\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2022\/04\/GettyImages-1279589946-684x384.jpg 684w, https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2022\/04\/GettyImages-1279589946-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2022\/04\/GettyImages-1279589946-1440x810.jpg 1440w\" sizes=\"auto, (min-width: 48em) 250px, (min-width: 30em) 100vw, 100vw\" \/>\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/figure>\n\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"card-post__meta\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"card-post__meta-text\"><span class=\"posted-on \"><time class=\"entry-date published\" datetime=\"2026-07-30T09:59:29-04:00\">July 30, 2026<\/time><\/span><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"card-post__meta-text\"><span class=\"reading-time\">18 min read<\/span><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\n\t\t<p class=\"card-post__title h5\">\n\t\t\tIncome statement template: Free Excel download and examples\t\t<\/p>\n\n\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t<\/article>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>If you\u2019re planning to open a franchise restaurant, a solid business plan is an important ingredient in your recipe for success. Here\u2019s what a business plan is, why it matters, and how to create one the right way.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1847,"featured_media":9129,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_yoast_wpseo_is_cornerstone":"","_yoast_wpseo_meta-robots-noindex":"","_yoast_wpseo_meta-robots-nofollow":"","_yoast_wpseo_opengraph-title":"","_yoast_wpseo_opengraph-description":"","_yoast_wpseo_opengraph-image":"","_yoast_wpseo_opengraph-image-id":"","_yoast_wpseo_twitter-title":"","_yoast_wpseo_twitter-description":"","_yoast_wpseo_twitter-image":"","_yoast_wpseo_twitter-image-id":"","_yoast_wpseo_schema_page_type":"","_yoast_wpseo_schema_article_type":"","_sage_video":false,"_yoast_wpseo_focuskeywords":"[{\"keyword\":\"franchise business plan\",\"score\":81},{\"keyword\":\"business plan for franchise business\",\"score\":81},{\"keyword\":\"how to create a franchise business plan\",\"score\":61},{\"keyword\":\"business plan for franchise restaurant\",\"score\":81}]","_yoast_wpseo_keywordsynonyms":"[\"\",\"\",\"\",\"\",\"\"]","_yoast_wpseo_primary_category":"44","post_featured_image_hide":false,"sage_hide_published_date":false,"sage_hide_read_time":false,"sage_hide_share_buttons":false,"_pwl_sage_podcast_buzzsprout_src":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[44],"tags":[195,399,170,269,153,272,34,152,155],"business_type":[40,41],"lilypad":[],"context":[],"industry":[52,452],"persona":[98,96,97],"imagine_tag":[466,468,1057,233,1058,230,231],"coauthors":[592],"class_list":["post-36067","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-strategy-legal-operations","tag-boss-your-business","tag-business-continuity","tag-business-strategy","tag-food-beverage","tag-growing-a-business","tag-productivity","tag-small-business","tag-starting-a-business","tag-staying-competitive","business_type-small-business","business_type-growing-business","industry-food-beverage","industry-hospitality"],"sage_meta":{"region":"en-us","author_name":"Joe Church Woods","featured_image":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2022\/04\/GettyImages-1297061487.jpg","imagine_tags":{"466":"Food &amp; Beverage","468":"Grow your business","1057":"Hospitality","233":"Medium Businesses","1058":"Restaurant franchise","230":"Small business","231":"Start up business"}},"distributor_meta":false,"distributor_terms":false,"distributor_media":false,"distributor_original_site_name":"Sage Advice US","distributor_original_site_url":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog","push-errors":false,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/posts\/36067","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/users\/1847"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=36067"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/posts\/36067\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/media\/9129"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=36067"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=36067"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=36067"},{"taxonomy":"business_type","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/business_type?post=36067"},{"taxonomy":"lilypad","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/lilypad?post=36067"},{"taxonomy":"context","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/context?post=36067"},{"taxonomy":"industry","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/industry?post=36067"},{"taxonomy":"persona","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/persona?post=36067"},{"taxonomy":"imagine_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/imagine_tag?post=36067"},{"taxonomy":"author","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/coauthors?post=36067"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}