Engel & Völkers Licence Partner Expansion Switzerland > Blog > Franchising – your path to success

Franchising – your path to success

We are mostly familiar with franchising from America: big US brands such as McDonald’s, KFC and Subway are just a few examples of this successful business model. Engel & Völkers is one of the world’s most successful real estate companies to use the franchise system.


Have you always wanted to be your own boss? Are you a born entrepreneur with strong leadership skills and a passion for property? With its franchise business model, Engel & Völkers offers a secure and structured start as a real estate agent – with plenty of benefits for setting up a successful franchise business.


What are the benefits for licenced partners?


1. A strong brand


Since it was founded in 1977, Engel & Völkers’ brand awareness has established itself worldwide. As a new licensee, you can build your business under this strong brand from the very beginning. Thanks to the famous shop concept and the Engel & Völkers corporate identity, you benefit from a competitive advantage when it comes to acquiring customers and properties – and recruiting real estate agents.


2. A future-oriented system platform


Engel & Völkers’ specially developed system platform has all you need to set up your business for success. The latest digital tools, access to our global network and numerous marketing measures are available to get you off to a great start. Our licenced partners also receive support from head office, since it takes on much of the administrative burden in a franchise system – leaving you free to focus on your core operations and establish your business in your local area.


3. Working together – not in competition


At Engel & Völkers, each licensee handles their own protected licence area. That means our licenced partners don’t see each other as competitors. Instead, they take advantage of Engel & Völkers’ extensive network – sharing knowledge, tips and ideas, so everyone can learn from each other.


What are the risks?


A franchise partnership is a long-term commitment for the licensee and the licensor alike. That’s why it’s important to know the risks before signing the contract.


1. Life circumstances and personal qualities


As a licensee, you have great responsibility – for your team as well as financially. In addition to professional qualifications, you need personal attributes such as a willingness to take risks and resilience.


2. Financial foundation


You need a certain amount of startup capital in order to sign a licenced agreement. Expenses such as licence fees and staff and rental costs are incurred from day one. Very few franchisees have the money they need sitting in the bank, and most will need to borrow. This increases the financial risk and should be factored in before signing the franchise agreement.


Would you like to become a licenced partner? Here’s how.

More information on the Engel & Völkers franchising model and an overview of available licence areas in Switzerland is available on our website. If your preferred area is not currently available, you may be able to join the business as a successor.


The best approach is to contact us directly – we are happy to help!

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Engel & Völkers
Licence Partner Expansion Switzerland

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