Big brands don't guarantee success

Some franchises have it.

Some don’t.

In this issue, you’ll dip your toes into both of those ponds — and get a little bit of an education, to boot.

Have you noticed that some well-known chain restaurants on Appleway in Coeur d’Alene have gone belly-up? It’s true. Even though other chains are flourishing nearby, and more are headed North Idaho’s way, these expired. Yet overall, the restaurant industry is growing here, and with it come not just varieties of chow, but jobs.

You’ll read about a new franchisee who will appeal to those of you who love recreational toys but don’t want the hassle or expense of owning and maintaining them.

And for the entrepreneurial at heart, NIBJ columnist Sholeh Patrick wraps up her two-part series on franchising, explaining how to get your show on the road.

There’s more, of course, but it wouldn’t be much fun if we gave it all away in this introduction.

Now that the region’s wildfire smoke has cleared — and another summer tourism season has wrapped up undaunted — here’s wishing you clear sailing into autumn.