Franchise

/ˈfræn.tʃaɪz/

Meaning & Definition

noun

A franchise is a legal and commercial relationship between the owner of a trademark, service mark, or trade name and another party that provides the rights to operate a business under that trademark or name.

McDonald's is one of the most successful franchises in the world, with thousands of locations across the globe.

A franchise refers to the rights or privileges granted to an individual or organization to sell a company's goods or to operate a business using its brand.

The coffee shop was able to expand rapidly due to the popularity of its franchise model.

A series of related products or activities, particularly in the entertainment industry, that share a common theme or brand.

The Marvel franchise includes movies, TV shows, and comic books that feature superheroes.

verb

To grant someone the rights to operate a business under a franchise.

The company decided to franchise its brand to increase its market presence.

To create or establish a franchise in a particular market.

They plan to franchise their restaurant concept to new cities across the country.

Etymology

The word 'franchise' originates from Middle French 'franchise', meaning 'freedom' or 'liberty', and can be traced back to Latin 'francus', meaning 'free'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

franchise agreement

A legal contract between a franchisor and franchisee.

franchisee

An individual or company that holds the franchise license.

franchisor

The company that sells the franchise and grants the rights.

master franchise

A franchise owner who has the right to sub-franchise to other individuals.

Related Words

franchising

The process or action of granting a franchise.

franchise fee

The initial payment made by a franchisee to a franchisor for the rights to the franchise.

Slang Meanings

Franchise player

The young quarterback is considered a franchise player for the team.

Franchise tag

The team used the franchise tag on their star linebacker.