With an All Pro Cleaning Systems Franchise, your path to financial and career independence can be easier than you think.
Here are the 7 steps to opening an All Pro executive franchise:
Step 1: Conduct your research and make sure All Pro is the right partner for you
The possibility of owning your own franchise is exciting. But when you are first starting your search to find a franchise opportunity that fits your lifestyle, the amount of information available on the web is overwhelming. The best place to start is by having a clear understanding of your personal goals, budget, and timeline for this next phase in your career.
Once you’ve settled on an industry that suits your needs – like a commercial cleaning franchise – you’ll want to find the brand that best matches your style. The franchisor-franchisee relationship is more than just a contract; it is a long term business partnership. When you are conducting your initial franchise research, be sure to spend some time on the company’s website and social media accounts. Also, check to see if they’ve received any press or news features in the last few years. All Pro stands apart because of our commitment to quality in the work we do, and with regard to our business standards. If that’s important to you too, we might have a match!
Step 2: Reach out to the franchisor directly
Most franchises have a form on their website where you can request more information and get in touch with a representative. Once you’ve reached out to us, we will schedule a phone interview with one of the All Pro Founders to answer your initial questions and send you some educational content to help you learn more about our services and next steps in the franchise process.
Step 3: Review the Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD)
The Franchise Disclosure Document, commonly referred to as the FDD, is a legal document that all franchises in the United States must present to prospective franchisees before a sale can happen. The FDD contains 23 sections and covers everything from the history of the brand, to fees and expenses, information about territory division, trademarks, and more. The purpose of the FDD is to empower prospective franchisees by providing them with information that will help them make smarter, more informed investment decisions.
Although you might be anxious to jump ahead to the next step, reading the FDD is a necessary task that any serious future franchise owner must complete. Once you’ve had a chance to review the FDD carefully, an All Pro executive will be in touch to see if you have any questions.
Step 4: Talk to other franchisees
At All Pro, we know how crucial the franchisor-franchisee relationship is. Developing a sense of credibility and trust with our franchisees is one of our top priorities – but you don’t have to take our word for it. We want you to speak with other people who were in your shoes so you can find out exactly what owning and operating your cleaning franchise will be like.
You’ll be able to ask questions and get the answers you need to make a confident investment decision. When you have the opportunity to speak to current and former franchisees one-on-one, don’t be afraid to ask about the kind of support you’ll receive from the corporate office. If unit economics and ROI are something that you want to know more about, feel free to ask current franchisors about their unit performance and whether or not they are considering becoming a master franchise. This is your chance to get real, first-hand accounts about the kinds of day-to-day responsibilities you’ll be taking on as a franchise owner – make the most of it!
Step 5: Tie up any loose ends regarding financing and investment details
Financing is something you will need to consider from the very beginning of your franchise journey. The franchisor will be able to tell you the total investment you’ll need to get up and running (don’t forget, this information will also be available to you in the FDD). If you need help gathering the initial capital needed to fund your business, you’ll need to find a lender and confirm your financing arrangements.
Step 6: Schedule your Discovery Day visit
During a Discovery Day visit, you will get to spend a day in the brand’s headquarters, meeting with members of the corporate team. You’ll learn about the company’s mission and vision and get a good sense of their culture. Other topics covered during Discovery Day include operating procedures, brand positioning, training and support, and even future master franchise opportunities.
Step 7: Sign the franchise agreement and get ready to open your doors for business!
If both the franchisor and franchisee agree that they’ve found a good fit, you will be awarded your new All Pro Cleaning Systems franchise.
This, of course, is only the beginning of what will hopefully become a profitable and fulfilling new venture for you and the franchisor. Especially if you are interested in a master franchise, once you’ve successfully opened your first franchise you can discuss expansion options.
To learn more about the All Pro franchise difference and find out if we’re a match, contact us today.
