Many dissatisfied executives have been exploring franchising as a path to career independence. For some, it is a chance to build a business from the ground up. For others, it is a way to step away from depleted 401(k) plans, thin staffs and restrictive management.
Franchising typically increases in tough economic times as managers, fearful of downsizing or other job uncertainties, seek new options. But this year, franchisers say they are talking to more executives than ever.
As these women look up at the ''top,'' they are increasingly deciding that they don't want to do what it takes to get there. Women today have the equal right to make the same bargain that men have made for centuries -- to take time from their family in pursuit of success. Instead, women are redefining success. And in doing so, they are redefining work.
"Consumers are used to buying products from all over the world," Mr. Marineau said on the telephone from company headquarters in San Francisco. "The issue is not where they're made. For most people that's not gut-wrenching anymore."
