2013 Mega 99

In our line of work, we see a lot of ugly financial statements. Not ugly in the sense that the business is performing poorly (well, we see some of those too!), but ugly in the sense that they contain glaring bookkeeping errors.

In 2009 we profiled Tony Lutfi and asked him our routine question about where he'd like to be in five years. At the time he had 52 units and told us he would like to be at 100.

Operating a successful franchise business is challenging enough. Add in family members and things can get really interesting.

David Grimaud grew up in the car repair business. His father, Joe, operated a Midas shop in Alexandria, La., where David spent many days working as a teenager.

In all likelihood, 2013 will feel a lot like 2012. Only two significant factors could change the economic environment in 2013 from the past two years of choppy, but painfully gradual improvement.

When it comes to recruiting and selecting new hires, it's amazing how many astute business owners and managers repeatedly shoot themselves in the foot.

As of 2012, there were about 1,300 franchised food brands operating in the U.S.; roughly two thirds started offering franchises in 2000 or later.