Unaffiliated businesses are companies that operate independently and are not connected to any larger corporate group or franchise. They make their own decisions regarding operations, marketing, and management without needing approval from a parent company. This independence allows them to be more flexible and responsive to local market needs. These businesses can range from small local shops to larger enterprises that choose not to align with a specific brand or franchise. By remaining unaffiliated, they often have the freedom to innovate and create unique products or services that cater specifically to their customer base, enhancing their competitive edge in the market.