Franchise vs. Independent: What Every Business Owner Should Know

Danessa Itaya breaks down the pros, cons and key differences between franchises and independents

On this episode of Ask The Expert, Danessa Itaya, President of Bio-One®, sat down with our Editor-in-Chief to discuss the key differences between franchising and independently owned and operated businesses. Danessa has over 30 years of experience with franchising, including 10 years of national and international leadership experience and she also serves on the Women in Franchising Committee of the International Franchise Association and was named one of Entrepreneur’s Top Influential Women in Franchising in 2022.

Key Topics of Discussion:

The biggest operational differences between running a franchise and running an independent business.
Support that Franchisor’s provide such as training, marketing and supply chain access.
Challenges that franchisees face that independent business owners might not and how those challenges are addressed in the franchise model.
Danessa shares an example of a time when the franchise system helped her overcome a hurdle that may have been difficult if she were an independent.
The importance of recognition of franchise success and how it compares to the branding efforts for an independent business.

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Kayla McGowan is the Editor-in-Chief of R&R Magazine, with 10 years of experience in marketing and communications in the restoration and cleaning industry. She leads the editorial strategy for R&R and The Experience Events, creating content that informs and connects industry professionals.

Kayla holds a B.S. in Criminal Science and M.S. in Public Safety and Emergency Management from Grand Canyon University. She serves as Co-Chair on the RIA’s Marketing Committee.

Kayla is a Microbial Warrior®, a Certified Forensic Operator® and a High Risk/ High Level Decontamination Specialist™. Kayla is passionate about elevating the industry, is a food lover, enjoys spending time with her family, and embracing the outdoors.