Why are most all lawn mower repair shops family owned franchises?

There are tons of small engine repair shops in just about every community, my town has a population of about 11,000 and we have six to choose from. From what I can tell none are family owned franchises, they are single owner, independent shops. Like Robert said if you have a problem with one, then pick out another one and stop going to that one. Maybe the problem is that you are expecting something from them that they just can not provide. Most of the shops here do not sell equipment, they repair it, big difference from the large corporations. Spring and early summer is their busy time and when they make most of the years profit, they do not have time to baby you. Bottom line if you do not like the way you are treated go somewhere else, if you do not like the prices look elsewhere, however you will usually find that prices are pretty close for similar items. Buy your trimmer string in bulk from the big boys and learn how to repair your own equipment, learn how to sharpen your own blades. There are lots of options, pick one or two and go with it.