Franchise guru warns against fly-by-night franchisors

MANILA, Philippines - With the local franchising industry unperturbed by the global economic crisis, several entrepreneurs are now seriously considering the option to go into franchising to expand their business or start a venture.

Armando “Butz” O. Bartolome, recognized as the “franchising guru” of the Philippines, however, cautions “uninformed” investors against fly-by-night franchisors who are out to gyp unwitting individuals of their hard-earned money.

“With franchising becoming a boom industry and as Filipinos seek out new opportunities to survive the crisis, it is a must that the public is well-informed on the nitty-gritty of the franchising world,” Bartolome, president and CEO of GMB Franchise Developers, emphasized.

To help budding entrepreneurs stay away from risky franchising concepts particularly during these difficult economic conditions, the franchise guru has programmed a series of seminars on “Choosing, Investing and Managing a Franchise in These Times.”

In these seminars, the GMB boss will also discuss “Franchising as a Key Strategy to Business Expansion” for existing ventures in search of better and more effective ways to expand.

He said the seminar series squarely respond to the desire of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) retirees and employees, as well as budding and existing entrepreneurs.

Bartolome, who took a respite from his hectic speaking engagements in key cities of the country and Asia as well as client consultations, will conduct a two half-day seminars on Sept. 5, with a minimal fee of only P500 per participant/session. It will coincide with a franchise fair at the World Trade Center in Pasay City.

For inquiries, call GMB Franchise Developers and look for Arnel Alberca at 359-6801 or Josel Besada at 532-8386.