A growing number of people aged 50+ are starting their own small business, and it isn’t as daunting as it seems. And with buying a franchise being a lot easier than starting a business from scratch, it is little wonder then that so many are turning to franchising as a route into self-employment.

Life experience, confidence, planning ability and personal skills are what counts when going it alone, and what it takes to become a successful franchisee – characteristics and skills that most over 50s posses in abundance.

So whilst there are many issues that individuals need to consider very carefully before taking up any particular proposition, genuine business-format franchising clearly does deserve to be on the list of self-employment options for people in the over 50 age group.

This experience and approach seems to make a considerable positive difference to the success of 50+ set up enterprises. Research confirms that, “5 years after start up, considerably more businesses run by people over 50 are operating successfully than those run by younger people.”

“The characteristics, skills and experiences that those over 50 posses make them ideal candidates for franchising”, commented Johnny Sellyn, Managing Director, whichfranchise.com.

“The broad range of franchise types available means that there is something to suit everyone, and with the majority of good franchises providing full training and support to all franchisees, it is now wonder that many are actively targeting those in their 50s. Not only are they starting a franchise, but are making a success of it, proving that life definitely begins at 50!!”

To support these claims, whichfranchise.com - supported by PRIME, the only national organisation dedicated to helping people aged over 50 to set up in business -has created a micro-site for “Franchising for the Over 50s”.

As well as providing information on why those aged 50+ are ideally suited to franchising, the site highlights the help and advice available, information on specialist loans, buying a resale, the legal issues involved and how to write a business plan. Visitors can also read about franchisees aged 50+ who have made a success of their business.

For further information visit www.whichfranchise.com/50+