Busmagroomer:
I have had a discovery day and really enjoyed the time I spent with these folks. They are working hard to build the brand! I can say this with all certainty...The franchisees are still the ones doing mostly all the work, but that's what has to happen to people that get in on the ground floor.
The groomers are the hardest peice of the puzzle. They do have a nice opportunity to make more money than working in a brick and mortar store, and groom less pets.
I do think it's feasible to hire the "right" person to do the job...they do offer extensive follow-up training after the initial 80 hours.
As far as the van holding it's value...I would think another franchisee would take it off your hands for the money owed on the vehicle. As long as the previous owner kept the van in clean and good working order. Let's face it, there will always be someone willing to take the equipment or the entire business off your hands for the right price. Your line of questioning leads me to believe that you are assuming failure.
I have talked with mnay current franchisees and they are in fact having high rebook rates. Who cares how long in between? If people like the service and come back that is the most important factor. I'm sure all customers are different. This would not be a one van operation, this would be a fleet of vans with constant marketing to keep penetrating the market.
Good idea about talking with groomers to see their side of the story about working for a startup. Although they would still be making pretty good money on the minimum daily pay schedule with tips.
As far as working 15-20 hours per week. I would expect looking at things from your vantage point that it can't be done. The only reason you say that is because you work 12 hours a day, 6 days a week. One van is an owner/operator...that may be great for you, but I'm looking for something more. This business, like may others, can easily be run as a part time owner. Will I spend more money before I break even? The answer is absolutely yes! Will I be able to keep my other business and still bring home nice money while this business is growing? Again, the answer is yes!
And I really don't care why someone left the business, unless I see people running for the doors
(Which in his case it's not). That franchisee was most likely a bad franchisee or had differences with the franchisor that couldn't be worked out. I would rather focus on the people that are growing the business and havinf fun. Those are the stories that I would rather listen to all day long.
I have thought about doing this myself. By the time you add evrything up you are saving about $35,000 of upfront cost. To me this just is not worth giving up that support line. The royalties are what keeps bringing me back to the idea though...Those royalties, like any franchise add up over time. The problem is just the groomers getting training and being trained on the van. Also, no software to help capture information to properly market the business. Hmmm...I'll keep banging my head up against the wall over this one.
Well, I'm glad to hear that you enjoy your van. Keep having fun! Thanks for the input.
