A National Labor Relations Board memo this week has drawn strong concern and criticism as it warned that McDonald’s could be legally liable as a “joint employer” along with its franchisees for employment practices. Media coverage sounded alarms that such a change would redefine the basic franchise business model, and that it could have a “massive ripple …
New Options Emerge For Small-Business Loans
While lending to large businesses are on the rise, bank loans to small businesses have actually declined year over year. But Inc. magazine sees silver lining in that cloud, pointing out that Internet tech is providing a range of new non-bank lending for small businesses – read more at Inc.
Franchises Add 17k Jobs In July
Franchises hired another 17,010 workers in July, according to the ADP National Franchise Report. That’s about half of June’s increase, but consistent with lower hiring by all U.S. small businesses. “Franchise job growth slowed significantly in July,” said Ahu Yildirmaz, vice president and head of the ADP Research Institute. “Since many franchise businesses fall into …
Consumer Confidence Hits Highest Point Since 2007; U.S. GDP Rebounds 4% in Q2
Consumer confidence – one of the biggest drivers of economic growth and a key factor in franchise and small-business investment – jumped to a new post-recession high this month, and hitting its highest level since October 2007. As confirmation of that confidence, the U.S. Gross Domestic Product reported 4% annualized growth for the second quarter, …
Jamba, Dunkin’ Launch Franchise Expansion Efforts
Jamba Juice is focusing on several East Coast markets to kick off a franchise expansion plan in August, with hopes to add 500 franchise units over the next 5 years. Recruitment efforts are starting in Baltimore, Washington, D.C., Atlanta, Manhattan, Northern New Jersey, and Raleigh/Durham, as well as Dallas to the south – press release Dunkin’ …
Growth Signals: Unemployment At 8-year Low
In another sign that the economy is starting to pick up, U.S. unemployment applications have hit their lowest level in eight years. See details at MarketWatch.