Few people know that there is a special publication that is solely geared towards special programs in the franchising industry for women and minority owned franchises. There are some even in the franchising business itself who are unaware of this. Robert Bond has written and sold more books on franchising than any other person in the World.

Robert is a personal friend of mind, who I respect for his no BS approach to a reality check in franchising. Each Robert sends out a survey to the franchisors to ask them of their special programs for women and minorities who buy franchises in their franchise systems. Recently I filled out Robert Bond's franchise survey of women and minority programs for the top franchisors. Each franchisor with programs will be ranked. I hope our company will rank high.

Women in franchising is a key component of a successful franchisor, previously having been personal friends with Susan Kezios, Founder of "Women in Franchising" in Chicago, I got to know first hand some of the history of women in franchising and how they were severely under represented. That is not the case today, as the numbers are catching up. I'm sure that she will vouch for those franchisors, which do more than give lip service to the cause and their commitment to women owned franchises.

Having spoken at the Annual Conference of the SBDC, I had also the chance to meet with Ann Dugan and her strong team of women advisors from the SBDC Small Business Development Center, at The University of Pittsburgh. It is good see the commitment of these great folks in the Franchise Industry and how they are protecting and promoting the rights of women in franchising.

I can remember every time we put a Car Wash Gal on one of our car wash trucks, we get too much business and that does sometimes create problems. I own The Car Wash Guys and The Car Wash Gals (CarWashGuys.com). In one year I remember our company had put Car Wash Gals franchises in many cities such as Clarkston, ID, Belgrade, MT, Palm Springs, CA, and (3) in Los Angeles, CA.

It is recommended that all Franchisors work hard to promote more women and minority franchisees in their systems. It is good business and it is good for business. Youll be glad you did, take it from me. Think on this in 2006.