
Jeff Standing in front of his Schlotzskys

Having been a multi-unit franchisee and Area Developer for 17-years, Jeff Johnson learned that franchisees often do not share important insights with franchisor executives. Without open and honest communication, a franchisor is left with assumptions which can prevent a franchise network from attaining its full potential. This lack of communication can also lead to relationship problems, lack of trust, and misaligned goals.
Jeff developed a vision to collect franchisee insights using a confidential survey and then providing the outcome to the franchisor. He wanted franchisors to receive high-quality, franchisee opinion research using scientific, yet easily understandable, data to be used in system-wide benchmarking, strategic planning, and validation. The vision became a reality in 2002 when Jeff founded the Franchise Research Institute®. The Franchise Research Institute® is the original auditor of franchisee opinions and continues to uphold the standard in high quality, scientific franchisee research.
Since 2002, the Franchise Research Institute® has studied and promoted excellence in franchising.