Buying a franchise is a significant investment with unique legal complexities. Our Detroit franchise acquisition lawyers guide buyers through FDD review, franchise agreement negotiation, and franchisor consent for franchise purchases across Automotive, Manufacturing, Technology, bringing 15+ years of transaction experience and Managing Partner involvement to every engagement.
Our managing partner provides selective franchise acquisition law counsel to clients in Detroit and nationwide, including:
We engage selectively with capitalized founders and investors in Detroit and nationwide:
Detroit's M&A market is experiencing a renaissance driven by the automotive industry's massive shift to electric vehicles, creating unprecedented acquisition opportunities across the EV supply chain, battery technology, and autonomous driving systems. Beyond automotive, Detroit's manufacturing expertise extends to aerospace, defense, and industrial automation, with a deep pool of established businesses built over generations. The metro area's combination of world-class engineering talent, affordable real estate, and proximity to the Canadian border makes it uniquely positioned for both domestic and cross-border transactions.
Detroit's deal market offers exceptional value - established manufacturing and technology businesses trade at lower multiples than comparable companies on the coasts. Many are second or third-generation family businesses with strong fundamentals and loyal customer bases, creating ideal acquisition targets for PE-backed platforms.
Metro Detroit has the highest concentration of engineers per capita in the US and sits at the center of the North American automotive supply chain. The region's ongoing economic revitalization, combined with Michigan's skilled workforce and affordable cost structure, creates compelling acquisition opportunities with significant upside potential.
Michigan's non-compete statute permits reasonable restrictions on competition but courts apply strict scrutiny - agreements must be reasonable in duration, geographic scope, and type of activity restricted, and Michigan's personal property tax on business equipment must be factored into asset purchase valuations.
A structured, methodical approach to franchise acquisition law
We review the Franchise Disclosure Document, identifying key risks in the franchise agreement, financial performance data, litigation history, and franchisee obligations before you commit.
While many franchise terms are standardized, certain provisions are negotiable. We identify where you have leverage and negotiate terms that protect your investment and operating flexibility.
Managing Partner Alex Lubyansky handles the purchase agreement, assignment documents, and all ancillary agreements required to transfer the franchise to you.
We coordinate with the franchisor to secure transfer approval, manage training requirements, and ensure all conditions for consent are met on schedule.
We manage the closing process across all parties, including franchisor, seller, lender, and landlord, ensuring every consent and condition is satisfied for a clean transfer.
"Franchise acquisitions look simpler than independent business purchases, but the FDD creates a web of obligations that most buyers don't fully understand until they're locked in. The franchise agreement is not negotiable in most cases. Your leverage is in understanding exactly what you're agreeing to before you sign."
Enforceable under statutory framework (MARA). Reformation available.
Entity mergers and conversions are filed with the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA), Corporations Division. Annual reports are required. Certain regulated industries require separate filings.
Submit your transaction details for a preliminary assessment by our managing partner.
Your transaction details are under review. If there is alignment, we will be in touch.
Meanwhile, feel free to call us directly at (248) 266-2790
Common questions from Detroit clients
Submit your transaction details for a preliminary assessment by our managing partner
Submit Transaction DetailsIn-depth guides to help you prepare for your transaction
What buyers should look for in a Franchise Disclosure Document.
Read guideUnderstanding the binding and non-binding elements of each document.
Read guideA structured approach to legal, financial, and operational due diligence.
Read guideCommon deal-killers and how experienced counsel helps prevent them.
Read guideOur managing partner provides selective franchise acquisition law counsel for transactions nationwide. Submit your transaction details for a preliminary assessment.
Submit transaction details for review. We engage selectively with capitalized buyers and sellers.
Your transaction details are under review. If there is alignment, we will be in touch.
Meanwhile, feel free to call us directly at (248) 266-2790
Selective M&A practice - Nationwide reach - Managing partner on every deal