I don't see any reason to describe Mr. Electric as anything but "you could get together with other electricians from other parts of the world and pool your resources to set up a web site."
Excuse me, but ... isn't your franchise agreement nothing more than the agreement you make with your fellow electricians, the other franchise holders?
So ... why re-invent the wheel?
As to the uniform / truck issue .... well, it comes down to the business model. The Mr. Electric plan places a premium on brand recognition and a professional presentation. It works.
It's not the only business model. In a very real way, the Union Hall resource available to member companies is part of THEIR business plan. Different plans, different markets.
Look to various fast food chains and certain mini-marts as examples of what a franchise makes possible. "Joe's Diner" might be a better place to eat, but McDonald's is a KNOWN quantity. Where are you going to stop?
