B2B markets. First, franchise headquarters and franchisors need to
develop appropriate supporting structures (e.g. marketing, training,
recruitment, and business development) that reinforce franchisees'
brand commitment and lead to the articulation of BCB by franchisees.
Accordingly, the study seeks to inform franchise managers of the need
for well-integrated internal branding practices that are essential for
the development of positive attitudes and BCB in franchisees. Second,
the study highlighted the need for franchisors to develop and implement
internal branding strategies focused on aligning franchisees'
behavior with the desired franchise brand image. Franchisors are
advised to encourage existing franchisees to embrace the culture of
self-driven positive brand-related attitudes. Third, it is rational to suggest
that when recruiting new franchisees, it is crucial for franchisors
to select individuals whose values are closely aligned to the franchise
brand image.
Finally, the study established and acknowledged the role played by
franchisee experience as this can guide franchise managers in understanding
(i) the dynamic nature of franchise relationships, and (ii) initiatives
that best fit the various stages of the franchisor–franchisee
relationship cycle. For example, given that organizational identification
is low at the early-stages of a relationship (less experienced franchisees);
adequate franchisor support can act as a proxy that promotes
the development of franchisees' brand commitment and motivate
them to engage in BCB.