Abstract

Small and middle sized Franchise system channels experience conflicts because of constant interaction between franchiser and franchisee. However, it is rarely that attempt has been made to identify causes of conflicts in distribution of franchise industry. The purpose of this study was to explore cause of conflicts from the franchisee. For the study, data were collected from the owner or the shop-manager with a contractor in franchise systems. By means of in-depth interviews with multiple informants, their statement was analyzed qualitatively. From analysis of the resulting data, the causes of conflicts were associated with two broad sets, attitudinal and structural differences between franchisers and franchisees. First, attitudinal sources of conflict were identified as perception of subordinated relationships between channel members, delayed announcement on order changes, difficulties in communication by doing irresponsible behavior, different expectations between channel members in market territory and lack of consistent-supporting. Second, structural sources of conflict involved unilateral decision on interior, payment method, unreasonable delivery issue, treat franchisee with discrimination by the sales, in controlling against free management. There are limitations on generalization due to the results based on interview, but this study will be a useful exploratory step before designing a large scale survey.