By Dr. Diego F. Romero, Senior Partner
Introduction
Despite the recent economic crisis and downturns in several important countries in the region, Latin America still remains a crucial trading and investment area for multinationals. For after over a decade of full-blown globalization efforts by the government and international investors, Ecuador has opened to foreign investment. Within this framework the country has welcomed dozens of international franchises including McDonald’s, Burger King, KFC, Baskin & Robbins, Pizza Hut, Domino’s Pizza, Taco Bell, Dunkin Donuts, TGI Fridays, Tony Roma’s, Hugo Boss, Blockbuster, Tower Records, and ACE Hardware. These arrangements allow the franchisee to conduct a business or sell a product/service using the methods and procedures prescribed by the franchiser. The franchiser, for his/her part, generally provides marketing, advertising, and technical assistance to the franchisee.
