Joan, is a jewelry designer who had created a unique new jewelry piece called a neacklet. It can be either a necklace or a bracelet. She would like to start her own business, but is not sure which form would suit her needs. She is very concerned about keeping control of her designs but has no capital except a small business loan. An older gentleman who owns his own jewelry store is eager to retire but has no buyers for his business. He has offered Joan a partnership with a chance for her to buy him out later. NewJewelry a large jewelry franchise who sells to the Home Shopping Network has offered Joan a chance to buy into their franchise and they will trademark and patent her design as part of their jewelry line. Joan comes to you to ask your advice. What would you tell her and why? Make sure that you explain the advantages and disadvantages of every business opportunity.

Answer and explanation:

In Joan's case, a general partnership will provide her control over her business that will be shared with the older gentleman who owns a jewelry store. Profits would be distributed evenly regardless of the contribution of each partner in the business. However, the older gentleman has offered Joan the chance of purchasing his share later on which would provide her the total control of the business and the patent of her creation.

The other option Joan has available is purchasing a franchise. This will allow Joan to avoid the initial costs of introducing her products to the market and the risks of not having enough consumers since her brand name is new. Though she will lose access to the patent of her creation and periodically Joan will need to pay NewJewelry a fee for using its name.

Therefore, as Joan prefers to have control over her designs, it would be more convenient for her to choose the general partnership.