Franchise domain strategy: Single domain (YourFranchise.co.uk/locations/manchester) vs location-specific (YourFranchise-Manchester.co.uk). Single domain = easier management, better SEO consolidation.
Centralized Domain Approach
Main domain: BrandName.co.uk. Location pages: /birmingham, /manchester, /leeds. Benefits: Single domain authority, unified brand, easier management. Used by: McDonald's, Subway, most major franchises.
Location-Specific Domain Approach
Separate domains per location: BrandName-Manchester.co.uk, BrandName-Leeds.co.uk. Benefits: Local SEO signal, franchisee ownership. Drawbacks: Fragmented authority, higher cost, complex management.
Hybrid Strategy
Main site on primary domain. Each location gets subdirectory page. Optionally: Register city-specific domains defensively, redirect to main site's location pages. Preserves flexibility, prevents competitor confusion.
Trademark Lens checks franchise brand name and location-specific domain availability - plan complete domain portfolio before franchise expansion begins.