franchise-and-funding

Fearless Founder: How Michele Henry Built Face Foundrie Franchise

ewell@closethedeal.com (ewell smith) — Tue, 25 Feb 2025 23:52:18 GMT

Michele Henry, founder of Face Foundry Franchise, shares the secrets behind her brand’s rapid success.

She dives into the fears and challenges entrepreneurs face, highlighting the importance of pushing past doubt and taking action. Michele believes that starting is the hardest step , and too many people get stuck in analysis paralysis, letting fear hold them back.

3 Your First Franchise Takeaways:

Overcoming Fear is the First Step to Success – Michele emphasizes that the biggest challenge in entrepreneurship is simply starting. Many aspiring business owners hesitate due to fear of failure, but taking action is what separates successful entrepreneurs from dreamers .

Strong Branding & Smart Marketing Drive Growth – Face Foundry’s success stems from a high-end experience at an approachable price , backed by a multi-pronged marketing strategy. Franchisees benefit from an in-house creative team that ensures brand consistency and customer engagement.

Franchise Success is About the Right Fit – Not every franchise is for everyone. Michele stresses that franchisees should align with the brand’s values, mission, and culture to create a long-term, mutually beneficial partnership. Being a pillar in the community and actively engaging with customers is key.

Laid Off After 40? This Career Move Changes Everything

ewell@closethedeal.com (ewell smith) — Tue, 25 Feb 2025 23:41:15 GMT

AI Is Disrupting The Job Market - for Better or for Worse?

It happens more often than you think. You’ve built a career over decades—navigating challenges, delivering results, and becoming an invaluable asset to your company. Then, out of nowhere, you're blindsided by a layoff. It feels personal, even though it’s not. It’s the corporate world, where decisions are made in boardrooms, not based on loyalty or contributions.

But what if this moment - the one that feels like a setback—could actually be your launchpad to something greater?

You’re not alone in this. Just take a look at the latest headlines:

White-Collar Job Cuts: Why Middle Management Jobs Are Disappearing - Forbes - Dec 20, 2024

Boeing issues layoff notices as aerospace giant cuts 17,000 jobs - Fox Business - November 13, 2024

Tech Giants Lay Off Thousands in 2024 to Focus on AI in 2025 - CCN – January 17, 2025

The list of major companies laying off staff in the new year, including CNN, Meta, Microsoft, and BP - Business Insider – January 25, 2025

The financial, manufacturing, and tech industries, once symbols of stability, are now reshaping their workforce. These aren’t just numbers on a spreadsheet. These are lives, families, and futures being impacted across the globe.

If this is your reality—or you fear it could be—it’s time to reframe the narrative. What if, instead of mourning the loss of a corporate job, you viewed this as the best opportunity you’ve ever had?

Let me introduce you to a career path that's been hiding in plain sight. One where your age and experience aren’t liabilities—they’re your greatest strengths. I’m talking about franchising, a path to business ownership that could turn this unexpected twist into the ultimate pivot for your career.

Forget Everything You Think You Know About Franchising

Let's start by busting some myths. When I mention franchising, you probably picture fast food joints on every corner, right? Maybe you're thinking, "Great, but I can't afford to open a McDonald's." Here's the kicker: most franchises aren't in food at all, and they're far more affordable than you might think.

In my years as a franchise consultant, I've helped professionals find opportunities in the $85,000 to $285,000 range. That's a far cry from the millions you might associate with big-name fast food chains. And with financing options like SBA express loans or 401k rollovers, it's within reach for many laid-off professionals.

The Hidden Gem: Home-Based Franchises

Now, let me introduce you to a sector that's been booming: home-based franchises. We're talking about businesses in high-demand industries like roofing, gutters, painting, plumbing, HVAC, fencing, and lawn care. These aren't just affordable; they're what I call "durable" industries.

Why durable? Simple. AI can't paint your house. A computer can't fix your pipes. These are services that will always need a human touch, making them resistant to technological disruption and economic shifts. Heck, many of these industries did exceptionally well during COVID.

Age: From Liability to Asset

Here's where it gets really interesting, especially if you're in your 40s, 50s, or beyond. In the corporate world, age can unfortunately become a liability. I've had clients tell me heart-wrenching stories of facing subtle (and not-so-subtle) age discrimination during job hunts.

But in franchising? Your age and experience are gold. Those years of honing your skills, learning from successes and failures, building professional networks? They're exactly what makes you an attractive candidate to franchisors. You're not starting from scratch; you're leveraging decades of real-world experience.

The Mindset Shift: From Employee to Owner

Now, let's talk about the biggest transformation I see in my clients. It's not just about owning a business; it's about owning your time and your success. No more waiting for a boss's approval or worrying about the next round of layoffs. You're in the driver's seat.

One client put it perfectly: "For the first time in my career, I feel like I'm building something for myself, not just for a corporation that could let me go at any moment."

But Isn't Starting a Business Risky?

Fair question. Starting any business has its risks. But here's where franchising has a unique advantage: you're not starting from zero. You're stepping into a proven system, complete with training, support, and a roadmap to success.

I like to use a football analogy: Starting a business from scratch is like getting the ball on your own 20-yard line and having to run it all the way down the field. Franchising? You're starting in the red zone about to cross the goal line. The plays have been run before, the strategy is tested, and you've got a whole team backing you up.

Innovation in Unexpected Places

Think franchising is all old-school business models? Think again. Today’s franchises are tech-driven and innovation-focused. For example, I recently showed a client a window cleaning franchise that uses drone technology. They're cleaning 20-story buildings more safely and efficiently than traditional methods. That franchise is capturing jobs others can’t, providing significant savings, and improving safety by eliminating the need for cranes - drastically reducing liability for everyone involved.

It's a perfect example of how franchising can put you at the forefront of industry innovation.

The Million-Dollar Question

Now, the most crucial question you need to ask yourself isn't about money or market trends. It's this: "Is this something I'd genuinely enjoy doing?" I always tell my clients, at the bare minimum, you need to have a real interest in the business. Love what you do, and success is far more likely to follow.

A Two-Way Street

Here's a misconception I often have to correct: you don't just "buy" a franchise. You invest in one, and it's a two-way street. While you're evaluating franchises, they're also evaluating you. They want to ensure you're a good fit for their brand and culture. It's not just about having the money; it's about having the right mindset and skills to succeed.

Your Next Steps

If this has piqued your interest, here's what you can do next:

Take stock of your skills and interests. What industries genuinely excite you?

Research franchise opportunities in those sectors. Look beyond the big names.

Speak with a franchise consultant (like myself) who can provide insights and connections.

Talk to current franchisees in systems you're interested in. Get the real scoop.

Evaluate your financial options. Remember, there are more ways to finance than you might think.

Getting laid off can feel like the end of the road. But for many of the professionals I work with, it turns out to be just the beginning. Franchising offers a path to business ownership that leverages your experience, respects your expertise, and could open doors you never knew existed.

So, the next time you look at your layoff notice, try seeing it differently. It might just be your ticket to a whole new world of opportunity. A world where your age is an asset, your experience is valued, and your future is in your own hands.

At the end of the day, in franchising, you're not starting over - you're starting with a strategic, proven playbook building wealth.

How Ziebart’s Franchise Legacy Keeps Accelerating

ewell@closethedeal.com (ewell smith) — Fri, 23 Aug 2024 17:48:48 GMT

Ziebart is a global leader in the automotive space - much of that has to do with how much support they provide franchisees...

Mike Riley shares 3 takeaways on Your First Franchise:

��Ziebart’s Global Expansion: With 1,300 locations in 37 countries, Ziebart has successfully evolved from its origins in rust protection to offering a wide range of automotive services, driving global franchise success.

��Adapting to Market Needs: Ziebart customizes its services to match regional demands, from rust protection in northern states to ceramic coatings in the south, ensuring profitability across diverse markets.

��Comprehensive Franchise Support: Ziebart provides franchisees with extensive training, site selection assistance, and a turnkey business model, empowering them to succeed in the competitive automotive industry.

To get a free copy of Your FIrst Franchise Roadmap book, click here.

Find out if you're a good fit...

GymGuyz Success Secrets Drive High Margins

ewell@closethedeal.com (ewell smith) — Wed, 07 Aug 2024 02:26:08 GMT

GymGuyz redefines the fitness market dominating markets and driving high margins.

Josh York, founder of GymGuyz shares 3 takeaways on Your First Franchise:

�� Adaptability and Innovation: Emphasize the importance of being adaptable and continually innovating in the business landscape to stay ahead of the competition and meet evolving market demands.

��Leadership and Vision: Highlight the critical role of strong leadership and a clear vision in driving the success of a company, especially in the face of challenges and rapid growth.

��Customer-Centric Approach: Stress the value of maintaining a customer-centric approach, ensuring that the needs and satisfaction of customers are at the forefront of business strategies and decisions.

To get a free copy of Your FIrst Franchise Roadmap, click here.

Find out if you're a good fit...

Disrupt Your Market W/ Snooze Mattress Company

ewell@closethedeal.com (ewell smith) — Wed, 24 Jul 2024 01:12:21 GMT

1. Tired? It may be time for a new bed.

2. Tired of what you're doing for a living?

If so, take a listen...

Matt Smith, founder of Snooze Mattress Company shares 3 takeaways on Your First Franchise:

��Discover how effective community engagement can exponentially boost your franchise's local presence and customer loyalty.

��Learn the secrets to maximizing profitability by optimizing operations and leveraging the proven strategies of successful Snooze franchisees.

��Uncover the importance of a supportive franchisor-franchisee relationship and how it can be a game-changer for your business growth.

To get a free copy of Your FIrst Franchise Roadmap, click here.

Find out if you're a good fit...

Investing in High Revenue HVAC: One Hour's Franchise Model

ewell@closethedeal.com (ewell smith) — Mon, 08 Jul 2024 19:57:52 GMT

Chad Harrison, shares the simple formula that backs up the name of One Hour Air Conditioning and Heating

Chad shares 3 takeaways on Your First Franchise:

�� Proven Systems and Support: One Hour Heating and Air Conditioning offers a comprehensive support system, including dedicated business coaches, training academies, and marketing resources. This ensures franchisees have all the tools they need to succeed, even without prior HVAC experience.

�� Strong Revenue Potential: With an average gross revenue of $4.9 million for two territories, One Hour Heating and Air Conditioning provides a substantial return on investment. The brand’s commitment to punctuality and professionalism drives customer satisfaction and repeat business.

�� Essential Service with High Demand: The HVAC industry is a needs-based business, particularly in extreme climates where heating and cooling are essential. This constant demand ensures a steady stream of potential customers, making it a resilient and lucrative market for franchisees.

Find out if you're a good fit...

Cooking Up Success: Franchise with Taste Buds Kitchen

ewell@closethedeal.com (ewell smith) — Wed, 19 Jun 2024 12:55:16 GMT

Jessi Brelsford, founder of Taste Buds Kitchen shares how she turned her hobby into a franchise with a major fun factor. If you love food and people, make sure to tune in...

Jessi shares 3 takeaways on Your First Franchise:

�� Passion Fuels Success: Jessi emphasizes that passion for the business and industry is essential for sustained success and growth.

�� Engagement and Tenacity: Franchisees need to be engaged, tenacious, and willing to put in the effort to make their business successful.

�� Community Integration: Integrating the franchise into the local community fosters a strong customer base and brand loyalty, driving long-term success.

Find out if you're a good fit...

Franchise Financing (+ How To Leverage Real Estate)

ewell@closethedeal.com (ewell smith) — Wed, 05 Jun 2024 00:45:37 GMT

Dan Pace shares your top SBA financing options to get started fast. He also shares how to leverage real estate when considering a physical franchise location.

Dan shares 3 takeaways on Your First Franchise:

��Value Bomb 1: Leverage SBA Loans

Dan highlights the importance of SBA loans for franchisees, especially the Express Loans (up to $150,000, no collateral) and Dream Loans (up to $500,000, flexible terms). These loans provide accessible and secure financing options for new and expanding franchises.

��Value Bomb 2: The Power of Mentorship

Dan credits his success to mentorship, emphasizing that guidance from experienced entrepreneurs is crucial. He advocates for seeking mentors to navigate business challenges, echoing his own journey and his work with SCORE to mentor new business owners.

��Value Bomb 3: Own Your Real Estate

Dan advises franchisees to consider purchasing their business property using SBA 504 loans. Owning real estate can lower costs compared to leasing, build equity, and provide additional rental income, making it a strategic investment for long-term financial health.

Find out if you're a good fit...

Build A 7 Figure Franchise Business With Schooley Mitchell

ewell@closethedeal.com (ewell smith) — Tue, 28 May 2024 23:27:43 GMT

Dennis Schooley, CEO of Schooley Mitchell, breaks down how their franchisees can build a 7 figure business helping other businesses save money. (low investment model)

Dennis shares 3 takeaways on Your First Franchise Podcast

Proven Savings Model: With our 29,000 deals, Schooley Mitchell has demonstrated an unparalleled ability to secure significant savings for their clients, purely sharing in those savings without any upfront cost to them.
Extensive Franchise Support: They provide comprehensive virtual training every month and assign a personal coach to each franchisee for at least the first year, ensuring they have all the tools needed to succeed.
High Earning Potential: Some franchisees have achieved remarkable success, with earnings reaching seven figures, showcasing the lucrative potential of the Schooley Mitchell franchise at a low cost entry point.

Find out if you're a good fit...

Discover How Hoppin' Franchise Hits 78%+ Margins

ewell@closethedeal.com (ewell smith) — Tue, 14 May 2024 23:37:25 GMT

Rich Moyer, CEO of Hoppin', shares the secret to 78% + margins, no grease traps and a variety of food options for their guests.

Rich shares 3 takeaways on this episode Your First Franchise:

Learn the crucial steps to build a business model that consistently delivers 78%+ profit margins.
Discover the key strategies that differentiate Hoppin' Franchise from its competitors and drive exceptional profitability.
Uncover actionable insights on maximizing margins and achieving sustainable growth in the franchising industry.

Find out if you're a good fit...

Why Veterans Find Success In VetCor Restoration Franchise: Paul Huszar

ewell@closethedeal.com (ewell smith) — Tue, 23 Apr 2024 02:40:38 GMT

Paul Huszar, CEO of Joe VetCor, explains how their values play to the strengths of Veterans and civilians too.

Paul shares 5 takeaways on Your First Franchise

VetCor’s not just restoring homes; they’re empowering veterans and making a difference in communities
Vetcor's proven model helps transition Veterans from military leadership to franchise success
Why their commitment to timely, reliable services backed by the values and experience of our veteran-led team make a difference.
Why Vetcor isn't just about fixing properties.
What it takes to be a good VetCore candidate - are you a fit?

How To Build Wealth Through Real Estate: Joe Homebuyer Blueprint

ewell@closethedeal.com (ewell smith) — Fri, 19 Apr 2024 01:32:41 GMT

Cody Hofine, founder of Joe Homebuyer, shares 3 streams of real estate income leveraging his proven franchise model.

Cody shares 5 takeaways:

How personal development boosts franchise success, impacting income and growth significantly.
How strong company culture is crucial for franchise success, fostering unity, motivation, and loyalty.
How successful franchises solve real problems, improving lives and creating lasting value.
How marketing and sales mastery is key for consistent growth and revenue in franchising.
How an entrepreneurial mindset is essential for franchisees, navigating challenges and seizing opportunities effectively.

Tune in to see if you are a good candidate for Joe Homebuyer.

Make A Smart Investment In A Cabinet IQ Franchise

ewell@closethedeal.com (ewell smith) — Sun, 07 Apr 2024 03:37:25 GMT

After earning his PhD and working as an engineer, Michael Hartel exited the corporate world to find fulfillment. You may relate?

Learn how Michael's Cabinet IQ franchise evolved quickly and how that may be an opportunity for you to exit your job too.

Michael shares 5 takeaways:

His favorite restaurant to do business in Austin, TX
Why he left his job as an engineer
How he identified his lucrative niche with cabinets
The numbers to start and what you might earn
His vision and mission for the business

Tune in to find out if you're a good candidate for Cabinet IQ.

Candy Cloud Provides Sweet Franchise Profits

ewell@closethedeal.com (ewell smith) — Sun, 07 Apr 2024 02:46:27 GMT

Alex Edwards, Co Founder, shares the secret to Candy Cloud's success which separates it from every other food or beverage franchise concept.

Alex shares 5 takeaways

His favorite restaurant to do business in Rockford, Illinois.
How overcoming a failed business led to Candy Cloud
Strong financial insights
The franchise support Candy Cloud provides
Find out if you're a good fit for Candy Clouds' culture

How To Invest in Your First Franchise in 2024: Ewell Smith

ewell@closethedeal.com (ewell smith) — Sun, 07 Apr 2024 02:40:54 GMT

Guest Show Appearance - Brian O'Neill, the W2 Prison Break Show host, interviews franchise consultant, Ewell Smith.

Ewell shares 9 takeaways from his guest appearance on the W2 Prison Break Show

The "ulcer moment" wake up call at age 24
Finding gratitude
Leading trade associations and rebuilding billions in lost Louisiana Seafood sales following Hurricane Katrina and the BP oil spill
The genuine value of marketing serving others
Side hustle flipped upside down
What is a franchise
Funding options for investing in a franchise
What holds people back from investing in themselves vs working for others
What's necessary in this vey moment

Athletic Republic Franchise Improves Sports Performace

ewell@closethedeal.com (ewell smith) — Sun, 07 Apr 2024 02:29:36 GMT

Charlie Graves, CEO of Athletic Republic shares how you impact lives through sports training

Charlie shares 5 takeaways:

His favorite restaurant to do business in Park City, UT.
The very unique origins of Athletic Republic
How Athletic Republic has impacted over 2 million athletes
The training philosophy of Athletic Republic
Find out if you're a good fit for AR's culture

Go Painting - The First All Commercial Painting Franchise

ewell@closethedeal.com (ewell smith) — Sun, 07 Apr 2024 02:16:24 GMT

Revolutionizing The Painting Industry:

Shaun McMurry, CEO of Go Painting Launches The FirstCommercial Only Painting Franchise Opportunity!

Shaun shares 5 takeaways:

His favorite restaurant to do business in Salt Lake City.
The Go Painting philosophy which drives this franchise.
Why this is such a unique opportunity for the first franchisees that join the Go Painting community
The KEY benefits of focusing on commercial only painting jobs
While the start up costs are low, Shaun shares revenue numbers and how they grow significantly

Unlocking Your Franchise Funding Options W/ Sara Vrancik

ewell@closethedeal.com (ewell smith) — Wed, 14 Feb 2024 02:38:07 GMT

Discover Franchise Funding Secrets with Senior Consultant, Sara Vrancik!

Sara shares 6 takeaways on this episode of Your First Franchise Podcast:

Sara's favorite restaurant to do business in Philadelphia.
The importance of enough working capital.
The best timing to explore funding to get pre-qualified
Support Benetrends provides regarding business plans
ROBS - the funding tool Benetrens originated that leverages your 401k
Additional funding options

Generational Wealth and Franchise Opportunities: A Conversation with Jeff Dudan

ewell@closethedeal.com (ewell smith) — Wed, 13 Dec 2023 04:42:45 GMT

Jeff Dudan, the CEO of HomeFront Brands, reveals his transformation from the football field to becoming the founder of one of America's most rapidly expanding franchise companies.

6 takeaways Jeff shares from this episode of the Close The Deal. Com Podcast (Your First Franchise special edition):

Jeff's favorite place to entertain potential business vendors
Why Jeff took a chance heading to Florida after Hurricane Andrew
Why Jeff's journey to Lousiana following Hurricane Katrina led to franchising his business
An overview of Homefront Brands today
Jeff's vision for impacting communities into the future
Who makes an ideal candidate for a Homefront Brand franchise?
Jaff's succinct parting advice *

Franchise Your Buisnes Avoiding Common Pitfalls

ewell@closethedeal.com (ewell smith) — Wed, 06 Dec 2023 01:36:55 GMT

Uncover Business Franchising Secrets with Janice Charles, Co-Founder of Franchise Succeed

6 takeaways Janice shares from this episode of Your First Franchise:

Her father's influence growing up around franchising - a way of life with 13 McDonalds franchises
The pitfalls to avoid falling into
The steps to begin franchising
An overview of the FDD and operations manual
Two aspects of marketing the business
Guidance to get going

Considering franchising your business, contact Ewell Smith

Impact Your Community With A D1 Sports Training Franchise

ewell@closethedeal.com (ewell smith) — Mon, 27 Nov 2023 02:08:43 GMT

Former College Team Captain Reveals Secrets to D1 Training Success

Ewell Smith talks with former college Team Captain of the University of Tennessee Volunteers, Will Bartholomew, founder of the D1 Training Franchise

7 takeaways Will shares from this episode Your First Franchise:

His favorite restaurant to do business in Nashville, TN
Overcoming high school football and pro football injuries to launch D1
The mission of D1 Training is to make an impact on communities
What makes the D1 training model unique
The core values of D! training
Franchise financial insights - the profit margin and the investment level
What makes the ideal candidate - could this be you? the ideal candidate - could this be you?

Light Up Your Town With a Blingle! Franchise

ewell@closethedeal.com (ewell smith) — Thu, 19 Oct 2023 05:45:58 GMT

Turp Ricketts, VP of Development for Horsepower Brands, shares insights on the Blingle! franchise opportunity.

�� Christmas (holiday) lighting is big business. So is landscape lighting, security lighting, and event lighting.

5 takeaways Turp shares on this episode of Your First Franchise (also featured on the CloseTheDeal.Com Podcast)

Why this opportunity is so unique
The enormous retention rate for holiday lighting
The investment level and potential revenue
The insights on how Blingle! will support you as a franchisee
What makes the ideal candidate - could this be you?

I had the chance to tour Blingle's 50,000+ square foot warehouse in Omaha, NE - all Christmas lights. Turp talks about why they invested in this on the podcast

Start Your Side Hustle Vending With naturals2go

ewell@closethedeal.com (ewell smith) — Thu, 19 Oct 2023 04:45:25 GMT

Bryan Butterstein shares how just how easy it is to get into the vending machine business.

5 takeaways Bryan shares on this episode of Your First Franchise (also featured on the CloseTheDeal.Com Podcast)

naturals2go is the most established brand in the market
naturals2go is technology-driven
Done-for-you initial location setup
Investment levels and revenue insights - profit margins
What makes the ideal candidate - could this be you?

Paint Your Way to Profits With Groovy Hues Franchise

ewell@closethedeal.com (ewell smith) — Thu, 19 Oct 2023 02:13:12 GMT

Josh Hoffman shares several revenue models the Groovy Hues Franchise provides.

5 takeaways Josh shares on this episode of Your First Franchise (also featured on the CloseTheDeal.Com Podcast)

An emerging paint franchise created by Horsepower Brands
Bringing scalability that Horsepower Brands proves over and over
Technology-driven on the back end and on the consumer end to help drive more sales
Not your ordinary back-end support - includes marketing, bookkeeping, hiring...
Who makes the ideal candidate - could this be you?

BFT Fitness Franchise Comes To America: Lance Freeman

ewell@closethedeal.com (ewell smith) — Thu, 19 Oct 2023 02:02:40 GMT

Ewell Smith interviews Lance Freeman, President of Franchise Development for Xponential Fitness, who introduces their newest franchise concept - BFT (Body Fit Training)

BFT hits the sweet spot between Cross Fit and HIT training. Another sweet spot is the revenue with high margins.

5 takeaways Lance shares from this episode Your First Franchise:

How and why Lance has 30+ years of franchise experience
An overview of the largest boutique fitness franchise group on the planet
Lance introduces BFT - Body Fit Training
Financial insights - the profit margin and the investment level
What makes the ideal candidate - could this be you?

Tint World - A fun franchise with strong profit margins

ewell@closethedeal.com (ewell smith) — Tue, 17 Oct 2023 17:25:55 GMT

Franchisor Charles Bonfiglio, CEO of Tint World, breaks down the franchise investment and revenue side. This episode is for anyone who loves cars.

8 takeaways Charles shares on this episode of Your First Franchise (also featured on the CloseTheDeal.Com Podcast)

He packed his bags at age 21, moving from Brooklyn to Florida to pursue a dream
How he got into his franchise business - but got bored with success
How he rediscovered his passion
He breaks down the #s you want to know
He shares how much fun this business is (cars and family culture)
He goes into detail regarding the support from the first call to opening the doors
He reveals one more revenue channel of the tint business that's off-premise
What the ideal Tint World franchise candidate looks like

Entrepreneur Magazine #1 Automotive Franchise Category 2022 – 2023
Entrepreneur Magazine Top 500 Fastest Growing Franchise 2013 –2023
Entrepreneur Magazine Top 150 Franchise for Veterans 2019 – 2023
Franchise Business Review Top 50 Franchise Award 2017 – 2023
Franchise Business Review Top Franchises Culture 2020 – 2023
Franchise Business Review Top Franchises Satisfaction 2020 – 2023
Franchise Grade A+ Best in Class Franchise Award 2020 – 2023
Franchise Times Top 200 Franchises 2016 – 2023
Franchise Gator Top 100 Franchise 2014 – 2023
Inc. 500I5000 Fastest Growing Companies 8 Years / 2011 – 2023
FranData FUND Score: 865 and 1# in Category 2019 – 2023
Franchise Registry Verified Member 2019 – 2023

Understanding franchise investment strategies with Zach Beutler

ewell@closethedeal.com (ewell smith) — Tue, 17 Oct 2023 01:28:45 GMT

Franchisor Zack Buetler, CEO of Horsepower Brands, kicks off our very first franchise & funding insights podcast.

Zack reveals his back story, overcoming bankruptcy early on his franchise journey to co-founding one of the fastest-growing franchise companies in America.

5 takeaways Zach shares on this episode of Your First Franchise (also featured on the CloseTheDeal.Com Podcast)

How massive failure molded Zach's success
Why competition in the market is so important
Why back-end support is crucial
Why investing based on long-term goals matter
Why having repeatable processes matter

"Feed your soul" meaning / How to nourish your soul

ewell@closethedeal.com (ewell smith) — Tue, 04 Jul 2023 21:38:22 GMT

What does it mean to “feed your soul?”

It has everything to do with your fulfillment in life and your livelihood. I’m a huge advocate in finding what “feeds your soul.”

You'll see why I champion this in a second and how this relates to you...

"Feed your soul" meaning

Let’s first look at what the “feed your soul” definition is within context of one's life work - your career.

Per Miriam Webster’s - “actuating cause of an individual life”

Per English Baby - “something that you do which gives meaning and enjoyment to your spirit”

Per franchise & funding - engaging in activities that bring deep satisfaction, fulfillment and a sense of purpose.

How to neglect your soul - I struggled to get my footing starting out...

I started LSU pre-med.

Being a Dr./lawyer is what I heard growing up.

After flunking my zoology and chemistry classes my freshman year at LSU, I knew the "Dr." path was not for me. So, I defaulted to a Psychology degree.

On graduation day, I told my parents, “I’m done with college, forever.”

Then reality slapped me in the face.

I couldn't find a job.

I took the first job I could get waiting tables at Applebees.

Recognizing how ill prepared I was with my newly minted degree, I enrolled to get my Masters in Business Administration(MBA). I also landed an internship with the Small Business Development Center consulting with entrepreneurs to "gain experience."

The #1 thing that happened to me while in grad school was meeting Jenny.

Recognizing how lost I was regarding my career, Jenny taught me the the most valuable lesson I learned – the value of “feeding your soul.”

In other words, where did my genuine interests lie? What gave me purpose? I heard what Jenny was saying, but it wasn't sinking in...yet.

Upon earning my MBA, I still felt like I had limited options.

My mindset was just not there yet.

It was deja vu all over again - struggling to find a job. I was even more frustrated after spending two more years in school.

I felt like I was spinning my wheels deeper in the mud.

Despite Jenny’s guidance, I took an office “job” to have a job.

My office was a tiny grey cubicle cell with padded grey walls and thumbtacks.

The work that stuffed my inbox every morning did zero to inspire me.

My frustration with my career and life was coming to a head. .

That job literally sucked the life out of me to the point I had my only ulcer at age 25.

I was never meant to be couped up in a grey cubicle cell.

That look Jenny's giving me in the photo…with all the kids' programs she does providing free dance lessons, her kids call that the "Ms. Jenny look." That's the "look" that keeps me on my toes.

You know the moment you "get it."

As that "ulcer" moment, with Jenny’s continued guidance is when I really understood what she was saying about "feeding your soul," I finally “got it.”

From that point forward I became very intentional regarding my life and livelihood.

And I’m very grateful I did. As Executive Director of the Louisiana Seafood Promotion and Marketing Board, I found myself leading the seafood industry through Hurricane Katrina and the BP oil spill in a five year span.

In addition to massive devastation and the brutal heartache, we lost billions of dollars in retail seafood sales globally.

We built coalitions from Louisiana, across the Gulf of Mexico to DC. We shared our fishing communities' story through the media and to the world. We marketed and restored billions in lost sales.

We never let up on the gas pedal.

When faced with life at that level of intensity, there's no option but to pour every ounce of your heart and soul into it to overcome and thrive again – twice.

This journey certainly hasn’t been a straight line, but ever since that “ulcer” moment, I’ve been fortunate to find my purpose serving entrepreneurs.

Today I believe this with all my heart...It's in finding our purpose we find our joy and fulfillment.

This isn't fluff...that mindset is what literally got me and our team through a string of crisis events (I failed to mention Hurricanes Rita, Gustav and Ike squeezed between Katrina and BP) knowing I was serving something larger than myself.

I like to say crisis provides clarity.

Your next move...

No matter which direction you go from this point forward, I’m clearly a strong advocate for you finding the “thing” that pulls you out the sheets in the morning.

Candidly, you deserve that....I'm not promising easy or comfortable.

That simple mindset of "feeding your soul" will serve you well finding fulfillment and joy as you make your next move, be it a job, starting a business or investing in the right franchise. That's the one that feeds your soul.

I wish you the best on your journey.

Make it a great day!

P.S. Feeding your soul takes courage. Allowing ourselves to drift doesn't.

We'll find genuine fulfillment through hard work, no matter what we do. That's a fact. That's also going to take mental toughness to persevere in overcoming difficulties when others won't. That's what most understand to be true.

What's interesting to me is the Latin root meaning of the word courage is cor – the word for heart .

When we care about what we do, we'll t hrive. I challenge you to find what pulls you out the sheets in the morning.

What is the franchise & freedom framework?

Just as reputable franchises use systems and processes to help assure mutual success, the franchise & freedom framework is used to effectively and efficiently match franchise candidates with franchisors.

This system helps eliminate the guesswork for both franchise candidates and franchisors, leading to better franchise matches for both parties.

Learn more:

Click to see the franchise & freedom framework

Click to learn about franchise funding.

Listen to Your First Franchise Podcast

Should you invest in a franchise or college degree?

ewell@closethedeal.com (ewell smith) — Tue, 04 Jul 2023 21:27:03 GMT

As families consider the college application process, this post may challenge parents and graduating high school students to think differently when considering a career in the business world.

Note - as you read this it may feel like I'm speaking directly to you the student, or directly to you the parent, or both at times. It's meant to help both of you walk through this process together.

One may ask, "Is a formal education the only path?"

In this article, I'll cover:

Cost of college education vs. a franchise business in the United States
Potential revenue earned in college vs. four years of franchise ownership
What's learned and earned in college vs. in real-world-business
College debt vs. investment debt
5 potential options

This post will help save you a lot of wasted time and money. It will also provide career clarity, which eases the stress.

For the purpose of this post, we'll assume you're exploring a typical four-year college timeline.

I wrote this as I reflect on my career path vs. a friend who went into the restaurant business straight out of high school waiting tables. He discovered his passion to be a chef. He knew he wanted to own a restaurant one day.

At the same time, my parents were encouraging me to be a Dr. or a lawyer or "whatever I wanted to be," with an emphasis on Dr./lawyer. Clearly, I didn't go the Dr./lawyer route…more on that in a moment.

Since most of today's college degrees are business degrees (19.4% per educationdata.org), we'll focus on students interested in a business degree.

Let's compare what's

earned vs learned.

(young franchise owners vs. business college graduates)

Let's first look at the costs of a franchise vs. a college degree.

Franchise Investment

Many think of McDonald's or other food franchises as the business model, which may cost millions of dollars to invest in.

That's not the case. In fact, there are many non-food franchise opportunities today. The average franchise total investment and revenue may surprise you.

Per ADP, most franchise startup costs average between $100,000 and $300,000 – the price can vary between industry, location, and type of franchise.

The average college education investment per educationdata.org:

A four-year state university undergraduate degree will run approximately $102,000
A four-year private university undergraduate degree will run approximately $218,000

Another factor to consider is the revenue side – over four years.

Regarding the franchise owner's income.

The average franchise owner's income can vary greatly.

Let's hypothetically say it's $25,000, $50,000, $75,000, $100,000, or $150,000+ a year.

That's hypothetically $100,000, $200,000, $300,000, $400,000, or $600,000+ potentially over four years.

We're not talking revenue and net profit of the franchise, as they can vary even more per franchise and industry. You will want to review Item 19 of the Financial Disclosure Document when considering a franchise. The FDD is regulated by the Federal Trade Commission to provide transparency to see actual financial performance.

Regarding a college student's income.

Let's be optimistic and hypothetically say a full-time college student works part-time for $20 per hour for ten months:

10 hours a week or 40 hours a month - $800 a month x 10 months - $8,000
20 hours a week or 80 hours a month - $1,600 a month x 10 months - $16,000

Over four years, let's say a college student earns between $32,000 to $64,000.

These numbers help draw a contrast in terms of potential expenses and revenue.

Who learnes more? The young franchise owner out of high school or the college student?

What does the franchise owner out of high school learn in four years:

How to manage a team of employees
How to meet payroll
How to provide customer service
How to overcome daily entrepreneurial challenges all face
How to operate a business
How to budget
How to manage a P&L statement – cash flow
How to pay business taxes
How to network in a business setting
How to market their business
How to sell a product or service
How to work with city/state/federal regulations
How to fail and get back up
How to run their own business

What does a business college student learn in four years?

How to manage a team of employees -in theory
How to meet payroll – in theory
How to provide customer service – (in theory or through part-time work)
How to overcome daily entrepreneurial challenges all face – in theory
How to operate a business – in theory
How to budget – in theory
How to manage a P&L statement – cash flow – in theory
How to pay business taxes – in theory
How to network in a business setting (in theory) and a school social setting (college life, business fraternity or fraternity/sorority)
How to market their business – in theory
How to sell a product or service - in theory
How to work with city/state/federal regulations – in theory
How to fail and get back up
How to lay the groundwork for the next steps - the bachelor's degree opens doors: job opportunities, business opportunities, more education.

Certainly, college life is different than that of young entrepreneur. It's a personal preference regarding what's important.

Both come with unique benefits.

Regarding the university route , memories of a lifetime are made while learning. Gamedays are a huge deal. Some meet their spouses. Lifelong friendships begin. '

On average, individuals with a college degree earn higher salaries compared to those with only a high school diploma or less.

And many other excellent reasons.

Going the entrepreneurial route , the franchisee gains real-world experience, practical knowledge, and life, business, and leadership skills that can't be taught from a book.

The franchisee has a four-year earnings head-start running a business.

Equity may be built into the business to keep growing the business. (T he young franchisee faces the realities of business sooner - there's also the risk of failure running a franchise – it can and does happen - it's business.)

Another factor to consider are the resources one has for college vs. a small business:

Scholarships play a role in offsetting college costs.
Family financial support plays a role in college or a franchise.
Financial aid for college education or franchise funding play significant roles.

Per the Chamber of Commerce, the average student debt in the U.S. is $37,172.

55% of students from public four-year institutions had student loans.
57% of students from private nonprofit four-year institutions also had student debt.

As of 2023, the average student federal loan interest rate is 4.99% for an undergraduate degree. That accrues over the life of the loan, even when the student is not making payments on the loan.

Regarding franchises, funding options may include personal finances, 401k rollovers, Small Business Administration loans, etc.

With a franchise, there's the opportunity to generate a healthy and tangible ROI. Click here for funding options .

The question is, which approach makes the most sense per the individual's specific circumstances and personal interests?

Why I see the 5 options below for high school graduates.

On a personal level, let me briefly share my journey, which is why my mind is wide open to options. For context, I have two degrees.

I started LSU as a pre-med student in my first year. I quickly realized I was on the wrong path as I was flunking my zoology and chemistry classes. I ended up earning a Psychology degree, which did little to prepare me for the real world.

While I was studying at LSU, my friend, Tim Creehan, whom I mentioned earlier, became an executive chef by the age of 19, working under his mentor, Chef Phillipe Parola.

Ooooohhh, the irony - By the time I graduated in four years, Chef Creehan had opened his first restaurant in what would become a string of marque restaurants in Destin, Florida. Meanwhile, my first job after college was waiting tables at Applebee's with my newly minted Psychology degree. That was a rude awakening.

Recognizing how poorly prepared I was for the real world after earning my degree, I fast tracked the GMAT so I could get my Master's in Business (MBA). I was also determined to gain "experience."

While earning my MBA, I was fortunate to land an internship with the university's Small Business Development Center consulting with entrepreneurs.

Let me emphasize this. I'm proud of my undergraduate and graduate degrees. I'm very grateful my parents valued the importance of higher education.

Sure, I had too much fun at times. Ultimately, the curvy journey paved the path to where I am today, which I'm also very grateful for.

Because of my experiences and because college costs today keep rising, I no longer see college planning services as the first source of information.

In fact, I see five options today for any high school graduate interested in business; to be successful in any one of them takes hard work and commitment.

Option 1 - The military - go active duty or go for a military scholarship to college. Either way, your education is paid for, and you're paid to learn.

This is undoubtedly an excellent and noble calling to serve our nation. Along the way, the education and skills training options are endless and priceless. New military veterans are highly recruited by businesses as their skill sets carry over well into business.

Also Note – veterans own 1 in 7 franchises . Many franchisors offer discounts to entice military veterans for good reason. See why here.

Option 2 - For the high school graduate who hasn't "figured out" what they want to be, that's ok. It's a common problem. That was me. That's still the majority today. College or trade school is a wonderful time and a great way to begin figuring things out.

To separate oneself from the pack, I'll plant one seed. Consider going all in, no matter the age or career stage, on self-education to learn what high school and universities fail to teach us regarding mindset and sales skills. YouTube and the online courses available today make that possible and easy.

Option 3 - Go to work in your field of interest to test the waters. Volunteer if needed to get your foot in the door. If you like it, find a mentor as soon as possible, as Chef Tim Creehan did. And go all in and get paid to learn.

Self-education is the byproduct of going all in in the real world.

Option 4 - The franchise system route may be a great opportunity for the high school graduate with a strong entrepreneurial spirit .

Possessing a high level of maturity, discipline, and responsibility are vital to success. If the student possess those characteristics, investing the money in a franchise instead of a college degree may make more sense. (given the financial resources available)

Per the International Franchise Association, there are over 300 different types of franchise businesses across different industries operating in the U.S., providing many options.

Franchises offer robust training, ongoing education, and a community that brings the books to life in real-time through hands on experience. Franchises also work due to their tested systems and processes.

Option 5 - A hybrid model may work best combining the previous options. That depends on the individual's circumstances, resources, interests and the entrepreneurial sprit needed to make that happen.

At the end of the day, education comes in all forms.

One of the smartest people I've ever known was a close mentor of mine who passed away far too soon. He earned his college degree in a different way. Mike Voisin was his name.

He was an entrepreneur his entire life. If he were alive, he would tell you he went to "Harvard on the Bayou" – in other words, the school of hard knocks in southern Louisiana working in the seafood business.

Mike's love of serving others and lifting others up made him an incredible entrepreneur, person and family man.

Mike's impact on the Louisiana seafood industry was recognized around the global seafood community, not to mention the effect he had on thousands of lives outside of seafood. At 59 years old, he was awarded a Honorary Ph.D. from Nicholls State University. (known for its seafood program and culinary program)

Education matters!

At the end of the day, I value all forms of education, especially continued self-education and training.

To button this up, I sincerely believe it's worth exploring all the options that make sense to you.

Sometimes it's a direct path when one senses their calling early in life. Sometimes, it's a really curvy path as one figures it all out.

All five options come with risks, opportunities, and tradeoffs (opportunity costs).

Also, note this isn't about your destination; it's all about your journey that's right for you and you alone . I was encouraged to be a doctor. I chose a different path. I found my passion serving entrepreneurs.

Hopefully, this helps you; let me know if it does…I'd love to hear about your journey.

Make it a great day!

P.S. No matter what direction you go in, take the time and absolutely do your due diligence to avoid a lot of wasted time, money and heartache. The due diligence will also help tee up your success when you find the right path for you. Whatever path that is, make sure it feeds your soul. ( see here )

Finally, enjoy this stage of life to its fullest for you have options. It's also very important because it lays the foundation for your future.

If you've read this far, there's no doubt you're serious about your future; I'd say you have a very bright future!

What is the franchise & freedom framework?

Just as reputable franchises use systems and processes to help assure mutual success, the franchise & f reedom framework is used to effectively and efficiently match franchise candidates with franchisors.

This system helps eliminate the guesswork for both franchise candidates and franchisors, leading to better franchise matches for both parties.

Learn more:

Click to see the franchise & freedom framework

Click to learn about franchise funding.

Listen to Your First Franchise Podcast

3 TOP mental blocks to investing in a franchise

ewell@closethedeal.com (ewell smith) — Thu, 08 Jun 2023 15:56:52 GMT

Fear is the #1 factor

Fear holds most people back from investing in a franchise or a business, traveling overseas for the first time, leaving a bad relationship, stepping on stage to speak, or even investing in oneself.

We all do it. Our imposter syndrome is our worst enemy in any of those scenarios.

Sometimes we're more comfortable with the status quo driven by fear. Fear only robs us of our true potential.

Three root causes of fear hold most people back from investing in a franchise. We'll break each one down. We'll also share the solutions so you can fulfill your vision.

Mental Block #1 - Money

You're not alone on this one. Money is the top reason of the three. That makes sense because we all work so hard for it. We all have mental images of banks and vaults to protect our money. And we always feel we need more.

When a baseball player goes into a funk, afraid to pick up the bat, he loses. If he won't swing out of fear because he may strike out, what's the point of owning the bat?

Money works the same way. It loses its value when it just sits there.

Money is simply a tool to leverage to make more money. And we all need more money to eat and pay for housing as time passes. That's a constant theme of money that repeats itself over and over.

Let's shift the focus.

Mental Solution A. Understanding the risk of not using your money and letting it devalue. Which means you're losing your money.

Mental Solution B. Understanding money is your investment tool to make more money.

Investing in a business is one viable option to multiply your money. Look at almost any street corner in the U.S. or many of the service trucks on the street; many have used franchising as their vehicle to invest in.

Regarding risk, the success rates of investing in a franchise are significantly higher than starting from scratch with a startup. There's less risk of losing both time and money. See here .

Mental Solution C. Understanding you can leverage the money you have to raise more money. You will be able to invest in pursuing your entrepreneurial journey.

You may have funding options that open up possibilities. Click here to see your options.

Mental Block #2 - Skills

Many fear they don't have the skills needed to operate a business.

Let's shift the focus.

Mental Solution A – Understanding we all have skills we can use.

Mental Solution B – Understanding we don't need all the skills to run a franchise.

That's because when you invest in a franchise, you invest in a franchise support system. Within that support system, there are systems and processes you will be educated and trained on.

Depending on the franchise , you may be working on the business, not in the business. That means many of the skills you thought you needed to have you don't need. Your role is executive in nature, building a team around you that has the needed skills.

Depending on the franchise , some franchise support systems provide back-of-office support, be it a call center, bookkeeping, human resources, etc.

Depending on the franchise , they may do the sales and marketing for you. Or some provide the colleterial needed so you or your team can execute.

"Depending on the franchise" is the operative phrase here, making this particular Mental Block important to understand. Some will miss out on investing in a franchise, not realizing there's a franchise out there that's a good match. They miss their possibilities.

As a guide, we solve that problem with the franchise & funding framework . See below.

Mental Block # 3 – Lack of Self-Confidence

Self-doubts creep in, which is perfectly normal – every human on the planet faces this. The good news is once Mental Blocks 1 & 2 are addressed, the self-confidence Mental Block issue starts fading away.

Let's shift the focus. :

Mental Solution A – When you invest in a franchise, you're investing in a support system that helps erase self-confidence issues::

a. You'll receive the franchise's playbook that includes proven systems and processes. You don't need to "figure it out." The playbook increases your success rate vs. a traditional startup. See here.

b. The franchise will train you (and/or your team) on best practices to ensure success.

c. You can plug into the franchisor's community of franchisees under their brand. Iron sharpens iron.

The bottom line is you're not on your own.

And know this; it's in the franchisor's best interest to see that you're successful.

Over time, your growth mindset will fuel your confidence.

Make it a great day.

What is the franchise & freedom framework?

Just as reputable franchises use systems and processes to help assure mutual success, the franchise & f reedom framework is used to effectively and efficiently match franchise candidates with franchisors.

This system helps eliminate the guesswork for both franchise candidates and franchisors, leading to better franchise matches for both parties.

Learn more:

Click to see the franchise & freedom framework

Click to learn about franchise funding.

Listen to Your First Franchise Podcast

9 reasons favor a franchise vs. startup business

ewell@closethedeal.com (ewell smith) — Wed, 07 Jun 2023 18:03:00 GMT

Small businesses are the economic backbone of the United States.

They are the American dream for many. If your entrepreneurial spirit is starving, consider your own business startup or explore franchise businesses.

Start up businesses can be challenging and exciting all at the same time. Finding the right franchise is also exciting. Investing in a franchise takes due diligence.

Business ownership is hard work. To be your own boss, evaluating your risk tolerance when exploring your options is essential.

The major differentiator in starting a business from scratch is you have total control in making every decision. It can be overwhelming at times.

In your first year as a startup business , you will be responsible for creating your playbook, figuring out every single aspect of the company, from concept to legal to branding to marketing to technology to hiring to site selection, to business operations, sales, etc. This process can take some time to "figure it out" while burning through cash.

Going the franchise route , you're investing in a successful business model that provides a proven track record. Tested systems and processes are your friend and lay your foundation.

Franchises offer a playbook written for you, erasing the "figuring it out" part.

The startup time to launch a new franchise is significantly accelerated.

Here are 9 reasons that favor a franchise vs. startup business:

1. Established Brand Recognition

Franchises with an established brand can jumpstart your entrepreneurial journey. A well-known brand can provide an instant reputation and customer base.

2. Proven Business Model

Franchises help take the guesswork and experimentation out of starting a business with a proven business plan as a turnkey business.

3. Proven Systems and Processes

Established and tested systems and processes streamline the day-to-day management of the business.

4. Community Support

Franchisees can plug into an existing network of fellow franchisees under the same brand to share what works and doesn't. Iron sharpens iron.

5. Training and Support

Franchisors provide a playbook to follow, equipping new franchisees with the necessary knowledge and skills to run the business successfully.

6. Marketing Support

Franchises typically provide a marketing plan and support. Some franchises offer turn key, done-for-you marketing support. Other franchises will share the marketing playbook and the collateral (designed websites, ads, commercials, banners, flyers, etc.) needed to draw attention to your business.

7. Economies of Scale

Franchises contract for services at scale and buy products in bulk which helps to reduce your operating costs. Thanks to their buying power, the discounts can significantly improve cash flow, increase your margins and improve your bottom line.

8. Less Risk

The established brand, proven model, ongoing support, and the community reduce the risk of failure vs. starting a business from scratch on your own.

9. Exit Strategy

Franchises often have an exit value of 1.5 times the price of a non-franchise business, per the Rinker School of Business.

Success rate vs. failure rate

Reality is every business venture comes with risk. The good news is franchises generally have a higher success rate than startups due to the abovementioned reasons, notably the established systems, franchisor support, and the franchisor's community of franchisees.

Per the Small Business Administration(SBA), a typical startup failure rate in the United States can be as high as 50% within five years.

Per the International Franchise Association(IFA), franchises tend to have a higher success rate, with as high as 90% of franchises still operating after five years.

There are many variables at play regarding success rates to consider, such as the franchise itself and the efforts of the individual franchisees. These statistics are not universal and can vary by industry, location, and personal circumstances.

Note - before you enter into any franchise agreement or make an initial investment in a franchise(or any business), validating the franchise opportunities of interest is very important. That's a critical part of the franchise & funding framework .

What is the franchise & freedom framework?

Just as reputable franchises use systems and processes to help assure mutual success, the franchise & f reedom framework is used to effectively and efficiently match franchise candidates with franchisors.

This system helps eliminate the guesswork for both franchise candidates and franchisors, leading to better franchise matches for both parties.

Learn more:

Click to see the franchise & freedom framework

Click to learn about franchise funding.

Listen to Your First Franchise Podcast

franchisor definition & meaning /what is a franchise?

ewell@closethedeal.com (ewell smith) — Tue, 06 Jun 2023 15:40:49 GMT

Franchisor definition and meaning

Franchisor is one who grants a franchise. That's the short version.

Let's expand on that.

A franchisor is a person or company that grants the right to operate a business to a franchisee via a franchise agreement. This may include using the brand name, trademark, intellectual property, trade secrets, and business model, which provides tested systems and processes.

The franchisor owns the overall business model.

Typically, the franchisor started as an entrepreneur solving a problem for the marketplace, be it a service or product.

Once established products and /or services, systems, processes, and marketing plans have been tested and proven for the original business model; the entrepreneur may decide the fastest way to scale the business is through franchising. The FTC regulates the franchise process – Federal Trade Commission.

Franchising paves the path to growing the business to multiple locations locally, regionally, nationally, or internationally.

What is a franchisee?

The franchisee owns a unit(s) as part of a franchise system. The franchisee does not need to be an entrepreneur to invest in a franchise.

The franchisor typically provides training, operational manuals, marketing support, staffing, site selection, lease negotiations, etc., and ongoing education and guidance to new franchisees of varied backgrounds (teachers, corporate professionals, skilled professionals, Drs, etc.)

What is a franchise agreement?

After a franchise consultant matches the franchise candidate to the franchisor and a franchise is awarded, the two parties enter into a franchise agreement.

That agreement outlines the rights and obligations of both parties. The franchise agreement typically covers fees, territory, intellectual property usage, training, support, and other essential aspects of the franchise relationship.

Franchisor typically collects fees and royalties as part of that agreement. That may include the initial franchise fee, ongoing royalties, marketing ad fund, technology, support services, etc.

Throughout the franchisee/franchisor relationship, the franchisor's role is to protect the brand, assure quality control (service and/or product), and continually innovate the business through technology, market trends, adjusting to market shifts, etc.

The franchise agreement helps assure franchisors and independently-owned franchises (franchisees) are on the same page to ensure mutual success.

What is the franchise & freedom framework?

This system helps eliminate the guesswork for franchise candidates and franchisors, leading to better franchise matches for both parties.

Learn more:

Click to see the franchise & freedom framework

Click to learn about franchise funding.

Listen to Your First Franchise Podcast

bluefrog Plumbing + Drain: It's all about training and superb support to assure you are successful

ewell@closethedeal.com (ewell smith) — Mon, 29 May 2023 19:13:55 GMT

Franchise Brand Brief

bluefrog Plumbing + Drain™ is the newest premium national service plumbing brand in the U.S. In a very recession-resistant $102 billion business sector, bluefrog™ is a low-cost opportunity with a proven business model that ' s easy to scale and easy to own.

No plumbing experience necessary
No brick and mortar
Low investment
Recession resistant
High margin
COD business
This business doesn’t follow trends in the economy

bluefrog Plumbing + Drain

DonutNV: A sweet business with mobility & flexibility serving up smiles:)

ewell@closethedeal.com (ewell smith) — Sun, 28 May 2023 18:54:08 GMT

Franchise Brand Brief

DonutNV’s interactive mobile franchise opportunity is fun to operate providing high margins. DonutNV serves hot mini donuts, fresh squeezed lemonade and other juices, plus hot and iced coffee, including their signature NVous iced coffee.

You'll get your own turn-key ready mobile unit providing a quick startup and launch. You can operate this full time or part time with your protected territory.

In the news video below, notice the window for the kids and parents to watch the donuts being made. Also take note of the food truck trends discussed at the beginning of the news broadcast.

DonutNV

Superior Fence & Rail: Founded by a West Point graduate & former Army intelligence officer. His mission - top quality and service

ewell@closethedeal.com (ewell smith) — Sat, 27 May 2023 15:46:20 GMT

Franchise Brand Brief

Superior Fence & Rail is the first and only fence installation franchise in the United States. With hundreds of employees and millions of feet of fence installed each year, Superior Fence & Rail is one of the most recognizable fence brands in the industry.

With proprietary technology that tracks potential clients from their initial contact with Superior, to estimates and installations, the Superior Fence & Rail opportunity can get franchisees off the ground running quickly.

The Superior Fence & Rail franchise model includes:

Proven client acquisition and retention systems
Relationship with Home Depot developed by the franchisor where fence leads are referred to franchisees for installations
Group buying power that provides a lower cost of goods on high-quality materials
Increased margins through the ability to fabricate vinyl fencing in-house
Very high AUV with the ability to expand from residential installation to multiple lines of service including commercial installation, product sales, access control, and fence staining.

Superior Fence & Rail

D1: Train Like a D1 College Athlete - The gym franchise where kids, athletes, and adults go to seriously level up

ewell@closethedeal.com (ewell smith) — Thu, 25 May 2023 17:42:54 GMT

Franchise Brand Brief

Founded by a former collegiate athlete, D 1 offers a caliber of training typically reserved for a Division 1 athlete. Using their proprietary training methods, D 1 delivers training usually reserved for Division 1 athletes to kids first – adults too!

With D 1 ’s turn-key franchise support system, franchisees will never have to build their workout programs or be alone in hiring staff, site selection, marketing, training, and more.

D 1 franchise facts:

D 1 is a recipient of the 2020 INC 5000!
D 1 ’s placed over 2,000 scholastic athletes in Collegiate programs
D 1 ’s placed over 200 professional athletes into professional drafts
40 of the 120 franchise owners are professional athletes. They help manage the speed and agility training at the Manning Passing Academy
Top 30 Gyms by Men’s Health

D 1

The Vitamin Shoppe: 1st time limited opening of franchise territories in 45 years

ewell@closethedeal.com (ewell smith) — Thu, 25 May 2023 00:42:56 GMT

Franchise Brand Brief

Established in 1977, The Vitamin Shoppe is recognized by Entrepreneur as the #1 health and wellness franchise in 2023 - 680 corporate locations.

With a new and limited release, new franchisees have a deep bench of support from the franchisor. Plus, they offer 4 revenue channels:

in-store sales
buy online, pick up
web sales inside your zip code
auto-delivery program

The brand is trusted so much that 70% of their revenue is from return shoppers. This opportunity is available in the U.S. and internationally.

The Vitamin Shoppe Financial Terms

100% chiropractic - created by chiropractors to scale extraordinary experiences for patients across the U.S.

ewell@closethedeal.com (ewell smith) — Mon, 22 May 2023 23:09:11 GMT

Franchise Brand Brief

With 98 units across the U.S., 100% chiropractic provides unique opportunities to invest in a full service wellness clinic that offers cutting edge chiropractic care, massage therapy, and a full line of quality nutritional supplements.

The first practice opened in 2004 and began franchising in 2015.

100% Chiropractic

ellie Mental Health: Making getting health care the norm

ewell@closethedeal.com (ewell smith) — Sun, 21 May 2023 04:59:06 GMT

Franchise Brand Brief

With 92 units open across the U.S., ellie Mental Health is changing how we treat mental health. This is a proven brand in the mental health sector.

They were established in 2015 and started franchising in 2021. With metal health care in the forefront, they are experiencecing rapid growth .

Professional athletes to A-list celebrities are using their influence to bring awareness to the Mental Health space. Join ellie Mental Health to break the stigma.

See how they approach mental health care: