Plante Moran

Plante Moran is an audit, tax, consulting and wealth management firm that works with over 180 franchise clients nationwide. With experience across industries like food/beverage, health/beauty, retail and education, the team helps franchisees and franchisors improve their finances. The firm’s advisors include Certified Franchise Executives (CFEs) who bring top-tier expertise to every client they serve.

Plante Moran’s founders often referred to the firm as “a people firm disguised as an accounting firm.” This is because people are at the core of everything it does. The firm helps both franchisors and franchisees make smarter financial decisions, offering real-world solutions to help them navigate complex growth challenges and improve day-to-day financial operations.

Plante Moran stands out for its ability to combine franchise knowledge with a hands-on, personalized approach. The CFEs on staff ensure the team understands the specific challenges that come with running and growing a franchise. Rather than using one-size-fits-all solutions, they take the time to learn each client’s goals and build financial strategies around them. Plante Moran focuses on practical, effective support — from helping with FDDs to improving unit-level performance — that fits the way franchises really work.

Plante Moran offers a wide range of services designed to support every stage of a franchise’s growth. Its audit and assurance services help ensure financial transparency and compliance, while its tax planning and preparation services identify opportunities for savings. For brands undergoing growth or transitions, the firm provides transaction advisory services, business valuations and M&A consulting.

The firm’s real estate advisors help clients assess and acquire new locations, while its employee benefits consulting team supports retention strategies and plan design. Franchise systems also benefit from Plante Moran’s expertise in cybersecurity and risk management, helping them protect what they’ve built. Additionally, the firm’s wealth management services support both the business and personal financial goals of franchise owners, including retirement planning, investment advisory, estate planning and trust services.

Through an independent third-party survey, Plante Moran clients were asked whether Plante Moran delivers on its promise to be a trusted advisor. The results showed that:

• 95% of clients agree that Plante Moran delivers on its promises.

• 96% would recommend the firm to others.

• 95% say their expectations are consistently exceeded.

Plante Moran is looking ahead to the future by continuing to invest in new tools and top talent. As the franchise space grows more competitive, the firm is focused on helping clients stay ahead by leveraging data, navigating regulation , managing risk and more.

Plante Moran has earned its reputation by combining industry knowledge with a people-first approach. Clients often come for the technical expertise, but stay because of the trust and relationships built over time.

With more than a century of experience, Plante Moran brings consistency and forward-thinking strategies to every engagement. What truly sets the firm apart, though, is its ability to deliver complex solutions while maintaining a highly personal, responsive style of service.

Franchise brands can rely on Plante Moran for more than just accounting. They can rely on them for guidance and long-term success.