Frequently Asked Questions

For your convenience, BIHM has compiled a list of frequently asked questions in relation to the Baisan Institute of Hospitality Management Franchise Program. Should you require further information, kindly get in touch with our franchise team who will be happy to assist you with your queries.

Q. What support services are provided under the franchise agreement?

A. BIHM is committed to ensuring the success of every franchised centre in its network. In addition to extensive training, operating manuals, instructional material and various guides, BIHM also provides its franchisees with complete business solutions to help manage their accounting, information technology and human resource needs. Considerable support is provided during the crucial start-up phase of operation from site evaluation to marketing and advertising. Franchisees will also benefit from regular visits by the BIHM franchise team who will assist in business planning, annual projections, quality control, operational issues, record keeping, and staff evaluation.

Q. Can the franchisee set his/her own course fees for the franchised centre?

A. Yes, the franchisee can set his/her own fees structure based on prevailing market sentiments and approval from the BIHM franchise team.

Q. Does BIHM provide training to assist the franchise set-up?

A. Yes, the franchise owner and key employees of the franchised centre must attend and successfully complete the start-up training programs run by BIHM at its headquarters in Bahrain . In addition to the start-up training program, BIHM will assign its own staff to work alongside the franchised center's team during the first week of business operations. Our franchise team will work out the schedule with you.

Q. Is sub-franchising allowed under the terms of the agreement?

A. The standard BIHM franchise is a 'unit franchise' and limits the franchisee to one location at the address listed on the franchise contract with no sub-franchising.

Q. What is the procedure for becoming a BIHM franchisee?

A. The first step is to complete the online "Preliminary Application Form" and submit it to BIHM for review. The form does not obligate the applicant or BIHM in any way and is simply used to determine mutual compatibility. Upon receipt and review of the form, the BIHM franchise team will contact the applicant to arrange a mutual evaluation meeting. At this first meeting, if both parties agree to proceed, the prospective franchisee will be asked to sign a non-disclosure agreement and will then be provided with a comprehensive breakdown of the required investment for starting a BIHM franchise. This data will offer a thorough evaluation of the franchise opportunity. Next, BIHM will prepare a franchise purchase contract and present a detailed schedule of the various steps necessary to set-up the BIHM franchise. Upon signing of the contract BIHM will guide and assist the franchisee in preparing for the opening of the franchised centre.

Q. Why join the BIHM Franchise Program?

A. There are several factors which make BIHM a highly attractive franchise opportunity. The hospitality industry, both regionally and internationally, is expanding aggressively creating a major demand for skilled hospitality professionals. BIHM is owned and operated by the prestigious Dadabhai group, the leading hospitality chain in Bahrain . This makes an immense contribution to BIHM's expertise in providing hospitality management training based on its thorough understanding of the HR requirements of the hospitality sector. Last but not least, BIHM is the leading hospitality training provider in Bahrain , with an impressive list of affiliations and accreditations not to mention a stellar track record in producing high calibre professionals.

Q. What is so unique about the BIHM Franchise Program?

A. Six reasons make the BIHM a unique franchise opportunity

• First, the value and reputation of the BIHM name which stands for the finest standards of hospitality training.
• Second, BIHM's vast experience in this field which is supported by its association with the leading hotel chain in Bahrain.
• Third, BIHM's affiliations with leading international certifying and educational bodies.
• Fourth, BIHM's customized course package which perfectly suits the hospitality requirements of the Gulf region.
• Fifth, BIHM's commitment to providing the highest quality training which is evidenced by the BIHM Advisory Council, BIHM's ISO 9001-2000 certification and the unique Training-in-Partnership concept.
• Sixth, BIHM has been so systematic in its approach to training professionals that its success is easily converted into a franchise concept with predictable returns on investment.

Q. What is the target market for BIHM courses and qualifications?

A. BIHM offers a variety of courses and qualifications for people desiring a fulfilling career in the hospitality industry. Additionally, BIHM also offers courses and certifications which existing hospitality professionals can use to upgrade and enhance their skill sets. BIHM is the institute of choice for hospitality professionals who seek to advance their careers since its certifications are internationally recognized.

Q. Is it necessary to have government approval for starting a BIHM franchise?

A. Yes, in most countries an education license from the local government authority is needed to open an institute for the certificated programs. In some countries, approval from relevant authorities may be required to offer courses and certifications.

Q. What types of fees are payable for signing on as a BIHM franchisee?

A. There are two types of fees: a franchise fee and a management fee. The franchise fee is a one-time upfront fee and must be paid in full upon signing of the franchise agreement . The management fee is an ongoing fee, which is a percentage of the gross sales of the franchised centre.

Q. Does the franchisees have to arrange the location of the institute?

A. Yes, it is the franchisee's responsibility to arrange the location for the franchised centre. However, BIHM will assist in evaluating prospective sites and the final site has to be approved by BIHM.

Q. How long does it take for the franchised centre to become operational?

A. In BIHM's experience, the franchised centre should be operational within 3 months from the time of signing the Franchise Agreement. However, this can vary depending on the availability of training premises and the time taken to obtain an educational license and approvals to run the courses from the relevant authorities.

Q. What is the tenure of the franchise agreement?

A. The franchise agreement is valid for an initial period of 7 years and renewable hence forth. Renewal is subject to agreement by both parties.

Q. What is the typical size of a BIHM franchised centre?

A. A typical BIHM franchised centre, including office space, is estimated between 1,500 to 2,000 sq. meters.