Setting up shop in Lakewood Some national franchises have their eye on city - #lakewoodnews

For many people like Morrison resident Ashley Watson, owning their own business is part of the American Dream.

"I always wanted to have a business I could call my own," Watson said. "I looked into the salon business because that's something I've had an interesting for a while."

But starting a business is expensive, and often requires a business background and knowledge of city operations to get established.

That's where franchises come in.

"Franchises are a great way for folks to get involved in business," said Robert Smith, Lakewood's economic development manager. "It's not just taking a shot on their own --; they have some backing behind them."

Lakewood strives to be business friendly, and franchisees are noticing.

Watson just opened a Cookie Cutters Haircuts for Kids at 7660 W. Virginia Ave., Suite B, in the Lakewood City Commons.

Toppers Pizza, a new pizza chain looking to finally come to Colorado, also has an eye on Lakewood.

"The market is still controlled by these pizza giants, but we're looking to create something that's distinctive and individualistic," said Mark P. Cairns, director of franchise development with Toppers. "Colorado is one of the top tier markets we're looking to develop in, and Lakewood has a lot of the demographics we're looking for."

The licensing process for a new business is the same in Lakewood, whether it's a franchise or an original business, Smith said. What being a franchisee does, he added, is lend some credibility to a project.

"There is some kind of corporate backing behind the franchisee, which is reassuring for us and location owners to see," he said. "I really enjoy working with franchises because they usually understand what it takes to make a business tick."

What draws many franchises to Lakewood is the same as residents - location.

"We do really well with millennials, and Lakewood is home to a growing number of young people," Cairns said. "Lakewood is on track to grow, and that will keep bringing customers in."

New families are a particular draw for Watson and her business, since it's focused on children.

"I knew there is a demand for family-centered businesses in Lakewood, and they want options when it comes to services like haircuts," she said. "The city was great to work with, and all the businesses around us have been so welcoming."

The fact that national chains are looking at Lakewood is a boon for the city, Smith said.

"It's great working with franchises because the franchisees often live right here in the community," he said. "All this interest is a sign we're doing things right here."

from Lakewood Sentinel - Latest Stories http://lakewoodsentinel.com/stories/Setting-up-shop-in-Lakewood-Some-national-franchises-have-their-eye-on-city,231990