FranDev Players: David Brand, Senior Director of Franchise Development, FranDevCo

David Brand was a franchisee himself before selling franchises for a living. His experience gives him a unique perspective on the industry because he knows what it’s like to be a franchisee, but also understands what it takes to be a good franchisor.

He likes most about the industry is the people. “It's a very unique world with a lot of really smart, passionate people,” he says. “I've never seen a more connected community who care about each other. They’re very smart, brilliant, and motivated.”

When FranDevCo brings a brand in, David Brand does a detailed review to learn everything about the brand. This includes how they generate their leads, what the customer experience is, what gap they're solving, and who they're looking for as a franchisee.

David Brand got into franchising after being downsized from the rental car business due to 9/11. He then got a call for an operations manager for a franchise and bought one himself. This experience had an impact on his career, allowing him to be on both sides of franchising.

The keys to consistent growth for a brand are having a tight operational structure and training the local franchise well. The brand should have all aspects of the business figured out and not require the franchisee to reinvent the wheel.

People want to see in a franchise ownership opportunity is having impact in their local community. They're looking for a franchise culture that allows them to make a difference.

The hurdles to franchise growth right now include COVID-19, but also the challenges in the food and fitness industries. However, David Brand has been lucky to oversee the majority of placements for an oil change franchise, Strickland Brothers, and has brought over 100 new units this year.

David Brand's biggest goals or plans for 2021 include continuing his success from 2020. He hopes that people will think positively and muscle through the challenges until things go back to normal.