Mr. Cowie was recruited by the Century 21 franchise organization in 1975 and won the National Century 21 award for excellence in the first year it was awarded. He left Century 21 in 1979 as a Senior International Vice-President.

He became a regional owner of the "Vacation Quest" franchise, which was written up in Franchising Today as the fastest start-up franchise to date. Mr. Cowie's region topped the charts selling 74 franchises in the first 4 months of operation.

In the same year he started the Franchise Design Group which was formed to assist prospective franchisors and franchisees and educate the business community and the public concerning franchising. He spoke at many functions, radio and TV shows and addressed MBA and other programs at various universities. He and his associates assisted many perspective franchisors and franchisees. At this time the Franchise Design Group was a non-profit organization and charged no fees.

Mr. Cowie served as President of Budgetel Corporation, an international franchise organization.

Mr. Cowie was President of Vogue Fashions, Franchise Division, during their franchise expansion period.

The Franchise Design Group has operated as a full service franchise consulting company since 1984 providing their clients with unparalleled service and expertise.