You may find that existing franchisees may be unwilling to "spill the beans" out of fear of reprisals by the franchisor. In fact, in one instance (in Australia) franchisees indicated that they feared being sued by the franchisor if their feedback to a potential franchisee resulted in that person not proceeding with the franchise.

There are numerous websites out there that franchisees use in order to air their grievances. Of course, in looking at the comments reflected on those websites you will have to decide which show the franchisor to be fundamentally "bad", always remembering that in even the best businesses/ franchises there will be an "unhappy" customer at some stage. A pattern soon emerges.

Have a look at this one to start Rip Off Report. If you keep trawling you're sure to find others.

Michael Marcus
Franchisees Advocate Group