Franchising law involves helping new business owners evaluate franchising opportunities, and assist in the purchase and operation of business franchises -- an alternative to starting a new, independent business from scratch. Franchising allows businesses owners to reduce their investment risk by associating with an established company, but may also require business owners to relinquish significant control over their business.
Great Bend is the most populous city in and the county seat of Barton County, Kansas, United States. The population was 15,345 at the 2000 census, and it was estimated to be 15,537 in the year 2006. The city was named for its location at the historic big bend of the Arkansas River. Great Bend is home to Barton Community College.