National Franchise Appreciation Day is a holiday observed annually on the Saturday before Labor Day. It is designed to create awareness about local franchises among the general public and to encourage them to support these businesses.

There are several reasons why franchises are important: they are a proven business model that has been successful in multiple locations; they have established brand recognition; and they take advantage of economies of scale.

These are all good reasons for the general public to learn more about franchising and what it can do for their current or future business endeavors.

The History of National Franchise Appreciation Day

Unfortunately, the origin of this holiday is not as well-known as we would have liked. We have tried to research the history of this holiday but have been unable to uncover where it came from or who invented it.

All we can do is take an educated guess and say that it was probably created by franchise organizations and/or associations as a way to celebrate and recognize the contributions of franchise businesses to the local and national economies.

As far as the history of franchising goes, we have been able to trace it back to the Middle Ages. This is when European monarchs began granting exclusive rights to individuals to operate in certain trades, such as baking or brewing, in particular regions. This made them very similar to guilds, which are groups of tradespeople and craftsmen that have banded together for mutual support and protection.

The difference between the two types of organizations is that guilds regulate the quality and price of goods and services by their members through enforced standards of conduct and craftsmanship, while franchising is a business model where the franchisor grants the right to use a brand or product to an independent operator for a fee or royalty payment.

Of course, modern franchising can be traced back to 1901 when the first modern franchise was created by the Singer Sewing Company. This company began selling sewing machines to entrepreneurs who could then sell them under the Singer name.

Other brands that began to be franchised over the years include A&W Root Beer in the 1920s, various fast-food restaurants during the 1930s-1950s, and various retail and service-based businesses such as Hertz and Holiday Inn through the 1960s to 1980s. Franchising has only grown since then and is seen by many as a solid business model for any entrepreneur.

Observing National Franchise Appreciation Day

National Franchise Appreciation Day can be observed by anyone who owns a business or who will eventually own a business and wants to consider franchising possibilities in the future. People can also spread the news about this holiday through social media by using the hashtag #NationalFranchiseAppreciationDay.