October Reset: Clarity Before the Year-End Push

October is a turning point. The leaves change, the pace of business shifts, and franchisors start looking at the final stretch of the year. Whether you are leading a national brand or managing a supplier team, this is the moment to pause, reset, and get intentional about how you will finish 2025.

1. Are We Closing Strong?

October is the last clean month before the holidays add distractions. The best franchisors I have worked with use this time to tighten execution.

• Review your KPIs: Are franchisees on track with revenue, customer counts, or service benchmarks?
  
  
• Communicate expectations clearly: A quick, direct message from leadership can realign the entire system.
  
  
• Celebrate small wins: Highlight franchisees who are finishing the year strong. It sets the tone for everyone else.
  
  

At Sport Clips, for example, year-end campaigns often determine momentum going into January. A strong finish in Q4 sets the stage for growth, while a weak one means starting the new year already playing catch-up.

2. Where Is the Real Support Gap?

It is easy to focus on selling the next deal. But in nearly every mastermind conversation I have, franchisees say the same thing: support matters more than promises.

October is the time to check the basics. Training, field coaching, marketing calendars, and supply chains all need to run smoothly. A quick pulse survey or advisory council discussion can uncover where franchisees are struggling.

Recently, I have also seen brands turn their attention back to construction timelines. Delays in getting new units open wear out enthusiasm and stall momentum. When openings happen quickly and effectively, growth follows.

Remember, your system is only as strong as your average franchisee’s experience.

3. What Story Are We Telling for 2026?

The best brands do not wait for January planning sessions. They begin shaping next year’s story in the fall.

• Set the vision early: What is the single biggest priority for 2026? Growth, retention, or operational excellence?
  
  
• Align your leadership and board: Everyone should already be refining goals and priorities.
  
  
• Frame the narrative for franchisees: People want to know where the brand is headed. If you do not define that story, someone else will.
  
  

DreamMaker Bath & Kitchen is a great example. They prepare in October, align leadership early, and move into the new year with clarity.

The Takeaway

October is about finishing strong and laying the foundation for what is next. Personally, I enjoy this season: preparation, focus, and seeing the results of the work put in all year.

So here is the question:
What one action can you take this month to hit your year-end goals or set momentum for 2026?