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Strategic Debt in Vertical Relations: Evidence from Franchising

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  • de Jong, Abe
  • Jiang, Tao
  • Verwijmeren, Patrick

Abstract

In this paper, we examine the strategic use of debt in franchise organizations. We focus on both the franchisee's and the franchisor's capital structures. The primary goal of this study is to examine whether franchisors impose limits on franchisees’ debt levels to be able to increase their own leverage. We find that the franchisor's leverage is significantly related to the maximum leverage allowed for the franchisee. As the franchisor sets an upper limit on the franchisee's debt ratio, the franchisor can raise more debt and therefore seizes tax benefits, since interest payments are tax deductible. We find that this effect is stronger in chains with larger fractions of franchised outlets.

Suggested Citation

  • de Jong, Abe & Jiang, Tao & Verwijmeren, Patrick, 2011. "Strategic Debt in Vertical Relations: Evidence from Franchising," Journal of Retailing, Elsevier, vol. 87(3), pages 381-392.
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:jouret:v:87:y:2011:i:3:p:381-392
    DOI: 10.1016/j.jretai.2010.12.002
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    Cited by:

    1. Bertrand, Jean-Louis & Brusset, Xavier & Chabot, Miia, 2021. "Protecting franchise chains against weather risk: A design science approach," Journal of Business Research, Elsevier, vol. 125(C), pages 187-200.

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