The Federal Republic of Germany has the strongest economy in Europe and is one of the leading economies in the world. With a population of 81 million, it also is the most populous country in Europe. Germany is a mature and successful franchise market with more than 950 franchised systems operating in the country. It has been ranked 24th out of 185 countries in the World Bank Group’s Ease of Doing Business Rankings.…

Introduction Hidden between some of the most prominent powerhouses in Asia—China, Thailand, and Vietnam—Laos has often been overlooked by foreign investors seeking to capitalize on investment opportunities in the region. However, thanks to an increased commitment from the government to ease restrictions on foreign direct investment (FDI) and efforts to create a more well-rounded economy that is less dependent on natural resources, Laos has witnessed a surge of new franchise operations over the past few…

Introduction The franchise market in Kazakhstan started to develop in the mid-1990s. The Kazakhstan Franchising Agency (KFA) estimates that the number of foreign brands currently franchising in Kazakhstan is close to 500 (and will grow to 550 by 2020), with an estimated 3,000 franchised outlets employing over 30,000 people and estimated annual sales of US $2.5 billion.  According to the KFA, there are about 30 domestic (local) franchises with over 200 franchised outlets.…

Introduction New Zealand is an exciting and fast developing market for franchising. The population of New Zealand is about 4.6 million and there are over 630 franchise systems—one for every 7,400 people—which is very high in comparison with other countries. Why? As a whole, New Zealanders love brands and businesses that succeed, and franchising offers people a chance to leave the security of employment and purchase a franchised business which should succeed provided the system…

Introduction The relaxation of foreign investment restrictions and a growing, aspiring middle class have encouraged new players to enter Myanmar’s franchising industry in recent years. Previously, franchises in Myanmar predominantly operated in the food and beverage industry; however, in the last few years, the country has witnessed a growth spurt of franchise operations in the services and education sectors. While no official statistics are available on overseas franchises in the country, brands currently present in…

Introduction The Kingdom of Spain is a democratic parliamentary monarchy, a member of the European Union and a signatory to the Schengen Area Agreement. Spain is also part of most international organizations and a signatory to most international treaties and conventions. Spanish territory is administratively divided in 17 autonomous communities (regions) including two autonomous cities in Northern Africa (the cities of Ceuta and Melilla). According to the 1978 Spanish Constitution and the respective Autonomic Statutes,…

Quarles & Brady’s Labor & Employment Practice recently presented a webinar on, “Developments at the National Labor Relations Board and Their Impact on Employers and Franchisors.”  Judi Williams-Killackey, Chris Nickels and Steve Kruzel reviewed the recent General Counsel memo and recent decisions from the NLRB, including those relating to its joint employer standard, workplace policies and employee handbook rules, micro-unit bargaining rules, and an employer’s ability to implement unilateral changes. Unable to attend? Click…