Government to subsidize newly set up franchisees

MOEA officials said that the ministry will unveil a set of concrete rules governing the subsidy scheme today, which will be basically derived from the existing innovation and R&D subsidy program being implemented by the economics ministry.

The officials said that those who have registered to set up a franchised store can apply for the NT$50,000 subsidy, as long as they complete “company registration” procedure to engage in service business, no matter whether they are jobless workers or not.

In addition, the MOEA is also mulling another subsidy program for those who want to set up their own businesses, instead of joining the franchise systems, the officials continued.

Lee Pei-fen, secretary general of the Taiwan Service Industry Development Association, said there are now more than 1,600 franchise headquarters in Taiwan with as many as 2,300 franchise brands, which vary greatly in operating quality.

Lee suggested that the MOEA should grant the subsidy to those who join franchises that pass assessment criteria set by the Department of Commerce under the ministry, so as to help reduce their operating risks.

She also advised those who are interested in joining franchise systems to weigh their financial strength and field knowledge first, and then join select franchise systems meeting assessment criteria set by the Department of Commerce.

Lee continued that there are 20 to 30 franchise headquarters passing the assessment by the Department of Commerce per year, and so far over 70 such headquarters have been certified to boast good operating performances.

In related news, the 2009 Taipei International Franchise and Chain Stores Show will be held Feb. 13-16 at the Exhibition Hall 1, A & D Areas, Taipei World Trade Center.

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