[krger]

> often groups also sell you the inputs/ingredients and force you to purchase through them to "maintain quality/consistency"

QSR franchisees are famous for cutting every corner they can get away with (as well as cutting even more corners until they get caught by the brand or local health/labor inspectors), so maintaining quality and consistency is a very real concern for these brands.

[atlasunshrugged]

Yes, that's fair, but it's also a great way to guarantee recurring revenue for a franchisor whose franchisees are obligated to purchase from them