Associations for communication, say franchisees Released by: Franchise Direct Web Site: http://www.franchisedirect.com Franchisees want more associations to help increase communication and support, claims a new poll. Email: eamonn@franchisedirect.com Keywords: Franchise, franchises, franchise opportunities, international franchises. Update Date: 5/12/2006 6:29:42 AM Hits: 241 Descrption:  Franchisees want more associations to help increase communication and support, claims a new poll. The research suggests that four of ten franchisees would welcome moves by their franchisers to set up associations that would provide greater access to franchise advice and information, reports the Mail on Sunday. The recent British Franchise Association survey, support by NatWest, found that 43 per cent of franchisees have access to an association in some form and they can help to address concerns and provide business support. Associations can take many forms and can be based locally or nationally to help provide an ideal opportunity for bringing franchisees together to help improve their business franchise sector and promote collective ideas. Sash windows repair business Ventrolla in West Yorkshire set up an association for its 24 franchisees and managing director Steve Emmerson believes it is a positive step. "A lot of franchisers just think of them as a bit like a union, but they're not. It is not just for airing complaints, it is a dialogue," said Mr Emmerson. He added: "We'll look at all sorts of areas - new ways of repairing windows, new health and safety rules, the marketing strategy and so on. It is simply a really good vehicle for a franchiser to know what is going on." Copyright Adfero Ltd 2006