Franchisees claim the firm failed to provide crucial information, in breach of consumer protection regulations.
More stores opened than closed, mostly by new entrepreneurs.
The Mail & Guardian does some homework for potential franchisees on funding options.
Pick n Pay is at loggerheads with some of its franchisees over claims that the retail giant is making it difficult for their businesses to survive.
Hot Dog Café has built strategic partnerships with development banks and popular stores.
Franchises in townships present an ideal opportunity to create jobs and transfer skills but they often need support to succeed.
Failed black businesses say Pick n Pay was not upfront with them when they took over stores.
Franchising, they say, actually grows during economic downturns because a retrenchee with a severance package is a prime recruit for the industry.
