FranchiseDiff Blog

FDD explainers, a glossary of franchise terms, and aggregate data reports across the FranchiseDiff dataset. Every claim is sourced. We don't rank or recommend brands.

FDD Education

FDD Item 5 vs Item 7: Initial Fee vs Initial Investment
The two cost numbers in every FDD. A short, factual guide to what each one covers, why they aren't interchangeable, and how to read them together.
May 2, 2026 · 6 min read
How to Read FDD Item 19 (Financial Performance Representations)
Item 19 is optional, regulated, and the most-misread part of any FDD. A factual guide to what is actually being disclosed and what is not.
May 2, 2026 · 6 min read
What Is an FDD? A Plain-English Walkthrough of All 23 Items
A short, factual walkthrough of every item in a Franchise Disclosure Document, with the FTC Franchise Rule citations behind each one.
May 2, 2026 · 7 min read

Data Reports

Initial Franchise Fee Distribution: 2024 FDDs
An aggregate look at single-unit initial franchise fees across 121 brands in the FranchiseDiff dataset whose FDDs were issued in 2024.
May 2, 2026 · 5 min read

Process & How-To

Where to Find a Franchise's FDD: State Registration Portals
Practical instructions for locating any U.S. franchise's most recent FDD — directly from the franchisor, through registration states, or via public databases.
May 2, 2026 · 4 min read

Glossary