By: Geetha Kandiah & Shevithra Selva Mohan  

In today’s ever evolving business world, franchising has become a powerful avenue for people looking to achieve business success with a structured framework. Over the years, many women have embraced franchising as their go-to business model, leaving a mark on the industry and inspiring countless others. This article sheds light on the incredible journeys of women in franchising, highlighting their success stories, and explaining why franchising works so well for female entrepreneurs.

Success Stories of Women in Franchising 

Serena Tan and her mother, Shirley Tay, co-founded The Chicken Rice Shop (TCRS), a beloved Malaysian franchise that has become a household name in the region. Their vision was to create a restaurant that served authentic Hainanese and Malaysian-style chicken rice in a casual dining setting. Through dedication and a strong franchising model, TCRS has expanded to over 100 outlets across Malaysia and beyond. In June 2019, the business was acquired by Japanese restaurant operator Zensho Holdings Co., Ltd. for approximately RM220 million, solidifying its success in the F&B industry. Their journey highlights how a family-driven business with a clear brand identity can grow into an international success, offering aspiring entrepreneurs a proven and scalable model for growth. 

In 2014, our client, Cherry Ho co-founded Johan Speaking Academy with Johan Ooi to help children develop public speaking skills. Johan, the 2015 Peninsular Malaysia Public Speaking Champion and a semi-finalist in the World Championship of Public Speaking, brings his expertise to the academy. Through franchising, they have successfully expanded their programs across Malaysia, growing to 10 outlets as of March 2025. This model has empowered educators to inspire the next generation of confident speakers. Their journey is a testament to how franchising can uplift women in education and scale impactful businesses. 

“Public speaking is more than just words—it’s about confidence, leadership, and the courage to express yourself. Through Johan Speaking Academy, we strive to give every child the voice they deserve.” – Johan Ooi & Cherry Ho 

Parameswari Manohran, Co-Founder & Senior Principal of Sunshine Kids in Seremban, turned her passion for early childhood education into a flourishing business. Holding a Bachelor of Early Childhood Education and a Master of Early Childhood Education, she understood the need for quality preschool education and developed a nurturing and holistic learning environment for young children. By franchising her preschool model, Mrs.Parameswari  has provided other passionate educators with an opportunity to run their own Sunshine Kids centers while maintaining high educational standards. Her story is a testament to how women in franchising can create lasting impact in their communities, shaping young minds while building a sustainable business. 

These women’s entrepreneurial journeys demonstrate how franchising can serve as a powerful platform for business expansion, empowerment, and community impact. 

Why Franchising is Ideal for Women Entrepreneurs 

Franchising has become a preferred business model for women, thanks to its unique advantages. Let’s explore why it works so well: 

1. Support and Training 

Studies show that women often experience higher levels of imposter syndrome and lack confidence when starting businesses. Franchising mitigates these concerns by offering comprehensive training and mentorship, providing women with the necessary skills, operational know-how, and marketing strategies to succeed. This structured support system helps women gain confidence and transition into entrepreneurship more seamlessly. 

2. Flexibility and Autonomy 

Women still take on the majority of caregiving responsibilities, including childcare, elder care, and household management. This makes traditional 9-to-5 jobs challenging to sustain. Franchising provides an ideal balance, allowing women to set their schedules and work around personal commitments. By offering the ability to manage time more effectively, franchising supports women in juggling both professional aspirations and family responsibilities. 

3. Proven Business Models 

Starting a business from scratch comes with a steep learning curve and financial risks. Research indicates that women entrepreneurs tend to be more risk-averse, which can make them hesitant to launch independent ventures. Franchising offers a tried-and-tested business framework, significantly reducing uncertainty. Women benefit from structured processes, brand recognition, and established operational systems, making it easier to achieve financial stability and growth. 

4. Collaboration and Relationship-Building 

Women excel in networking and fostering strong relationships, traits that are highly beneficial in franchising. Franchisees gain access to a built-in support network, including guidance from franchisors and mentorship from fellow franchisees. This collaborative environment not only enhances business success but also fosters a sense of community, ensuring that women don’t feel isolated in their entrepreneurial journey. 

5. Leadership Opportunities 

Research shows that women-led businesses often achieve higher profitability due to inclusive and empathetic leadership. Franchising allows women to step into leadership roles, build teams, and create work environments that thrive on mentorship and inclusivity. Women’s natural strengths in people management and team development make them highly effective in growing and sustaining successful franchises. 

Conclusion 

It is without a doubt that franchising’s inherent flexibility and support make it an ideal choice for women, allowing them to thrive in competitive markets while balancing personal and professional responsibilities. As more women join the franchising world, their contributions will undoubtedly continue to enrich this dynamic industry, paving the way for a more inclusive and diverse entrepreneurial ecosystem. We at KASS, look forward to helping more and more women in franchising as they break barriers and rewrite the rules of entrepreneurship.