Franchises are big business. The logic of the huge start up costs are sensibly wighed by the support and brand that usually comes with a decent franchise.
One downside of a franchise is that they usually offer you access to a specialist scheme business insurance arrangement they have negotiated.
We are finding more and more that many schemes (particularly restaurant insurance) are increasing their previously competitive premiums at many times the average inflation figure.
You may be told that this arrangement offers better protection for your business than a standard commercial insurance quote. But, you do have to ask yourself if the extra premium is worth it.
The best option, is to get your renewal quote and then look around for one or two more, without disclosing your renewal quote, and ask for the best possible price. Whilst nothing in life is guaranteed, it is almost a certainty that you will get a better premium, sometimes up to half price.
You then need to disclose your renewal quote to the competing broker and asl them to summarise (for free) the differences in cover. Then, you need to make a business decision whether it is worthwhile changing insurer.