Do the homework before choosing a franchise: Smart Cartridge director Suzie McCafferty explains why becoming one of this company's franchisees may be the Smartest career move you'll ever make.(FRANCHISE FOCUS)

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Sometimes choosing a franchise seems like a lottery. What criteria do you use to pick one which will be a profitable and sustainable business?

Our golden rule is to do your research thoroughly before committing to one particular franchise opportunity. Is there a proven market for the goods and services you are planning to provide? Is it in a business sector where there is a compelling reason for customers to buy from you? Is the business model going to provide long-term revenues?

From our own experience we realised early on that environmental legislation would be a key business driver for our franchisees. Every day, new legislation relating to the …