The information provided herein is strictly for educational and informational purposes only.
STL Global (Smith Trade Land) and its affiliates do not hold any brokerage, investment, or franchise licenses in the United States or in any foreign jurisdiction.
Nothing in this publication constitutes an offer, solicitation, or representation for the sale or purchase of any business, franchise, or investment opportunity.
Readers are strongly advised to consult with licensed professionals — such as attorneys, accountants, or certified franchise consultants — before making any investment or contractual decision.

Official references for federal and state franchise regulations:

• Federal Trade Commission – Franchise Rule
   
• FTC – Consumer’s Guide to Buying a Franchise
   
• U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) – Buy an Existing Business or Franchise
   
• SBA – Official Franchise Directory
   

Franchise and retail investment represent two of the most structured and regulated forms of business ownership in the United States.
Under federal law — specifically the FTC Franchise Rule (16 CFR Part 436) — a business qualifies as a franchise when:

1. It operates under a common brand or trademark;
    
2. The franchisor provides significant control or assistance over operations;
    
3. The franchisee pays a fee to the franchisor.
    

This framework ensures that anyone entering a franchise system is protected from misinformation and unfair business practices.
Reference: FTC Franchise Rule – Legal Library

The Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD) is a federally mandated legal instrument that all franchisors must provide at least 14 days before any agreement is signed.
It includes 23 key sections detailing company history, litigation records, estimated startup costs, royalties, territory rights, and termination terms.

This document is designed to protect potential investors by providing full transparency — a core principle in U.S. business ethics.
Reference: FTC – Consumer’s Guide to Buying a Franchise

STL Global does not sell or broker franchise rights.
Its role is educational and informational — focusing on comparative analysis of retail and franchise models across various international markets, including the United States, Turkey, Georgia, and Tajikistan.
The company studies how business formation, local compliance, and zoning laws affect operational success — but provides this information without offering investment or legal advice.

STL Global publishes reports and studies that explore:

• General performance trends in small grocery cafés, boutique stores, and service-based franchises;
   
• The financial structure of NNN (Triple-Net) retail leases;
   
• International differences in franchise registration and disclosure;
   
• Economic comparisons between franchised and independently owned stores.
   

All data are drawn exclusively from publicly available and government-verified sources such as the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) and U.S. Census Bureau.

STL Global does not request, collect, or process financial deposits or investment capital.
Its publications and communications are non-promotional and non-binding, ensuring compliance with U.S. consumer protection and anti-fraud laws.

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) regulates franchise transactions nationwide through the Franchise Rule, ensuring that prospective buyers receive accurate and complete information before signing or paying.
Violations can lead to civil penalties and enforcement actions under 15 U.S.C. §§ 41-58.
Reference: FTC – Franchise Rule Overview

Several states, such as California, New York, Illinois, and Virginia, require franchisors to register or file a franchise disclosure before offering or selling franchises in their jurisdictions.
Educational or informational discussions about franchising, however, do not require any license.
For example:

• Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services – Franchise Registration
   
• California Department of Financial Protection and Innovation – Franchise Division
   

The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) provides tools and education for individuals exploring franchise or retail ownership.
While SBA does not endorse specific brands, it offers data, financing programs, and educational resources to assist independent entrepreneurs.
References:

• SBA – Franchise Information Guide
   
• SBA – Franchise Directory
   

The average initial investment for a small retail franchise in the U.S. ranges from $150,000 to $400,000, depending on brand, size, and location.
In addition to startup fees, franchisees often pay royalties (4–8%), marketing fees (1–4%), and are responsible for NNN lease expenses — covering property tax, insurance, and maintenance.
Each of these obligations must be reviewed independently by licensed advisors.

The FTC encourages potential investors to:

• Read the entire Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD) carefully;
   
• Contact existing and former franchisees;
   
• Review financial statements;
   
• Consult with a qualified franchise attorney before signing any contract.
   

Reference: FTC – Consumer’s Guide to Buying a Franchise

Unlike many regions, the United States enforces mandatory federal disclosure laws for franchise operations.
In contrast, countries like Turkey or Georgia often rely on general contract law rather than specialized franchise statutes.
This difference underscores why international investors must seek U.S.-based legal counsel before entering any agreement governed by U.S. law.

STL Global’s cross-border research identifies how franchise models adapt to local regulations, consumer demand, and economic environments.
Its findings are shared for educational value and are not intended as financial recommendations.

Retail and franchise investment offer pathways to entrepreneurship but demand careful study, legal awareness, and financial responsibility.
STL Global provides neutral, factual, and educational content to help readers understand these dynamics — without engaging in any form of brokerage or solicitation.

All readers are encouraged to verify every opportunity through official government channels such as:

• Federal Trade Commission (FTC)
   
• U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA)
   
• Internal Revenue Service (IRS)
   

This publication aims to foster knowledge — not contracts.
Any business or investment decision should always be supported by professional legal and financial consultation.

Official Coordination Notice

To request a consultation form and receive verified partner information, please reach out to our coordination team through the official contact section.

STL Global does not provide brokerage, legal, or investment services; all professional services are performed by licensed partners independently.