This article makes a contribution to the state of knowledge on franchising in Russia by analyzing Russia as a target market for international franchising entrepreneurship. First, past research and literature on franchising in Russia and other emerging markets is reviewed. The country’s franchising environment is examined in relation to five environmental factors: (1) demographics, (2) economy, (3) social and political environment, (4) culture, and (5) legislation. Some preliminary information on a major franchising system in Russia is presented. A complete SWOT (strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats) analysis for international franchising in Russia is provided in the conclusion section. The article provides an up-to-date overview of Russian franchise environment, integrating research on the topic and collecting some primary information on the ground in Russia. |