Economic News

A recent report on the state of franchising reveals some very encouraging numbers, and this resurgence is great news not just for the franchise industry but for the nation as a whole.

There are some cities that either somehow shielded themselves from the worst of the recession, or managed to muddle through it with some degree of success - and become leaders of job creation...

Though Congress holds the power over how small-business owners operate day to day, you wield the power of PR and can influence their decisions to your benefit.

Companies that have had trouble holding on to a chief executive may now be poised for success.

The old adage there are only three things that make a restaurant successful- location, location, location, was obviously created by a landlord charging outrageous rent on Madison Ave.

Franchising experienced incredible growth in the last decade, and the International Franchise Association plans to use that momentum to protect, enhance, and promote franchising in the year ahead.

Should small businesses spend time and money to leverage location-based services? The numbers say no.

Democrats, relinquishing control of the House, wonder if the Missouri Republican can put small business interests ahead of party and ideology in the new Congress.

Enterprise Risk Management provides great challenges to your organization, but it can open up great rewards as you grow and globalize.

A look back at the key events, issues, and trends that defined 2010 for the small business community.

It is a perfect storm. Very cold Winters in the U.S. and Europe putting pressure on heating oil supplies and costs, increased crude oil demand in China, and end of the year reductions...

Discussing an adverse credit history with an applicant allows them to tell their story.

Developing and executing a practical plan for 2011 & beyond is the most important step family-owned businesses can take to achieve profitable growth.

Layaway options are increasing beyond brick-and-mortar stores.

My last post was about China, and now I find myself visiting another growing international economic giant, Brazil, where I write this....

A credit card with no annual fee that is paid off every month is a better deal, and less costly, than a prepaid debit card.

Succession Planning, Internal Alignment and Creating a Vision are the first steps for family businesses to deal with obstacles to growth.

Holidays and yearly events are a great time to capitalize on consumer spending, especially during the 4Q when consumer spending is typically the highest compared to any other holiday season throughout the year....