A Meineke franchisee put a political message into an ad after the chain's marketing vice president had approved it without the political statement.

Portfolio manager Bryan Ashenberg points out on The Street that auto repair franchise system Monro Mufflers will continue to see sales growth as auto dealerships continue to close.

Jim Penman, head of one of Australia's largest franchising firms, has had problems with his master franchisees. They want him removed. As a conciliatory measure, he offered to hire a chief operating officer. He has now hired a convicted wage-dodger for the position.

One2One and BodyScapes fitness centers is franchising much like the old IHOP model, in which the franchisor builds out the franchise and then sells it to a franchisee.

In Houston, Texas, Lady of America, a women's only fitness business, closed down leaving many members facing hardship.