A survey by the International Franchise Association (IFA) towards the end of 2011, suggested that over 25 per cent of franchisees were expecting credit to be easier to come by in 2012.

This is a marked improvement on where things were twelve months previously, where just over six percent expected to see any improvements.

It is a sentiment which is largely echoed by franchisers too. In the same poll, which surveyed a total of 149 IFA members, 55 per cent thought there would be greater access to credit in the coming year.

A number of franchise companies are also being very proactive in helping their existing franchisees get credit, and introducing innovative plans for new investors. Part of this is to lower initial fees and provide greater financial support.

More than this though, many are also being a good deal more flexible regards their fees.

The lower cost of real estate for commercial properties is also likely to help many investors.

With the IFA themselves looking to provide greater support, it is little wonder that US franchise opportunities are expected to rise by 2 per cent through the year.

In some sectors though, such as in business services, this increase could be considerably higher. Many businesses are starting to spend again, as the country’s recovery continues. Print shops and the like are likely to benefit from this, at both a local and national level.

Things are of course still tentative, but for those looking to start out on their own, right now could represent a prime opportunity.