Opening a franchise is a dream come true for some

Posted on November 15, 2010 by Stacey Fousse

While the economic slowdown has caused many to lose their jobs and financial security, the recessionary period has also allowed people from around the country to think outside the box. One of the hottest trends among those looking for the chance to run a profitable business - but minimize the risks - has been franchising.

The Columbus Dispatch reports that one former Wendy's employee, who got laid off after the fast food chain merged with Arby's, decided to open up her own cleaning franchise as a way to not only stay afloat financially, but also be her own boss at the same time. Erin Dillion said that, while the work is challenging, she loves the independence it brings.

"It's not pretty work, and it's labor-intensive," Dillon said. "But I'm in control of my own destiny and am no longer at the mercy of corporate America."

There are a number of successful franchisees in the cleaning sector who have found the franchising model to be a successful way to earn a living. Brad and Cari Rohrich recently opened a brand-new Oxi Fresh Carpet Cleaning in Canon City, Colorado, the Daily Record reports. The couple hopes the franchise concept is a hit with customers in the area.