Franchising is one of the most rewarding ways to be your own boss – and for franchisors, it’s a chance to grow a business by helping others do just that. But while the model is proven, the path isn’t always smooth. That’s why so many in the industry refer to the experience as the “franchise rollercoaster” – an exciting, empowering journey filled with highs, some lows and learning curves for everyone involved.
Whether you’re investing in a brand or building one, it’s important to be prepared for every twist and turn. And that includes looking after your mental wellbeing.
In this guide, Jen Chapman-Boffin – founder of Cinder and a Mental Health First Aid Trainer – shares advice on how both franchisees and franchisors can stay well, stay connected and stay resilient throughout the ride.
The big launch
The beginning of the franchise journey is often a real high. New franchisees arrive full of motivation and drive, ready to make their mark. And for franchisors, it’s a proud moment – welcoming someone new into the network, sharing the model and helping them get started.
Franchisees benefit from structured onboarding, training and support, while franchisors enjoy the buzz of expanding their brand. But once the training ends and the day-to-day takes over, the adrenaline can wear off – especially if growth feels slower than expected.
Franchisors may find their attention pulled elsewhere, especially as the network grows. For both sides, this early phase can bring pressure. But recognising this as a normal part of the journey – not a setback – is key.
Navigating the twists and turns
As the initial excitement gives way to the reality of running a business, it’s natural for both franchisee and franchisor to encounter challenges. For the franchisee, this might be juggling sales, operations and work-life balance. For the franchisor, they’re often doing everything that the franchisee is doing plus supporting their network of franchisees.
But small, regular check-ins can make a big difference. Creating space to talk – not just about targets, but about how things feel – helps build a healthier, more open franchise culture. One where success isn’t just measured in numbers.
Little and often keeps you on track
Being proactive is so important. Just like we care for our physical health with regular exercise and good habits, our mental health thrives when we give it steady attention – not just during tough times. By checking in and taking small steps regularly, franchisees can help keep stress at bay and avoid burnout before it starts. In the same way, franchisors who consistently support their teams – rather than only stepping in during a crisis – can build a much stronger, more connected network. When support is ongoing, team members feel valued, understood and better equipped to handle challenges when they arise.
Knowing the track ahead
There are common pinch points in the franchise lifecycle. Year one is a big adjustment for franchisees – everything’s still new, but the pressure is very real. Around year five or six, conversations about renewals or next steps can bring fresh uncertainty.
Franchisors have their own dips too, often around economic shifts, network-wide changes or personal pressures. Acknowledging these shared challenges encourages empathy, understanding and more timely support – whichever side of the relationship you’re on.
More than just speed
KPIs and performance targets matter – but they’re only part of the story. For franchisees, it’s easy to feel disheartened if the numbers aren’t where you hoped, especially in those early years. For franchisors, it’s important to remember that behind every report is a person juggling a lot.
Sometimes, the most valuable insights come from conversations, not spreadsheets. Whether you’re a franchisor checking in with your network or a franchisee reaching out for support, regular, open dialogue can make all the difference. A quick call, a word of encouragement or simply asking “how’s it really going?” can be just as impactful as any performance review – if not more so.
Your safety harness
There are plenty of mental health resources available – so why not make them part of your toolkit? One example is The Wellbeing Collective – a new and accessible initiative created by Cinder to offer ongoing support from day one.
Designed for franchisors to include alongside onboarding packages, it ensures new franchisees are set up with tools to manage their wellbeing right from the start. With mental fitness sessions and an online portal full of practical advice, it’s a valuable way to tackle the ups and downs of franchise life together.
“Franchising is a journey and, like any journey, there will be highs and lows. But it’s important to remember that you’re not alone on the ride. Whether you’re a franchisee or a franchisor, taking care of your mental health and supporting each other through the tough moments is just as vital as celebrating the successes. Embrace the ups, navigate the downs, and never hesitate to reach out for support. Together, we can make the rollercoaster a little smoother for everyone,” concluded Jen.
Back in February, Cinder launched a nationwide survey designed to break down barriers surrounding mental health in franchising. The survey aims to spark open conversations, uncover key insights and pave the way for a more supportive and understanding industry. The survey closes on 30th April, with results to be announced during the inaugural National Franchise Wellbeing Week on 16th June. The survey only takes two minutes to complete, so be sure to submit your responses before the deadline and make a real difference!
To complete the survey, please visit https://cinderltd.co.uk/cinder-wellbeing-survey-2025/
