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The answer lies primarily in developing an effective site selection process. Remember, no approach is going to suit everyone, but there are definitely some common steps franchisees can take in order to reduce their chances of selecting an undesirable location. This holds particular truth when it comes to franchises that will take up a lot of space.
Here are some of the steps you should follow in order to find the right retail space for your business venture.
Understand your specific business needs
What is the core essence of your franchise? What’s the special sauce that will keep customers coming back?
Mimosa Salon Suites works closely with franchise operators in order to help them study lifestyle data and target demographics, as well as any other relevant research.
This research should lead the franchisee to some key insights. For example, while a clothing store or a restaurant should ideally be situated in a highly visible location, Mimosa Salon Suite franchises are what are known as destination locations. This means that we use a model that inspires loyalty among customers, enough to have them follow us wherever we go. That means that salon suite franchisees will be able to operate effectively from the back of a mall, or the third floor of a building. Because you can use space that landlords typically have a hard time leasing, you can pay less in rent.
Connect with your Franchisor
A strong relationship with your franchisor is a core aspect to selecting the right location. All the information you need regarding the franchise’s rules and regulations will be made available to you through the Franchise Disclosure Document. Don’t review this document on your own. Go through it with your franchisor. You should also talk with your franchisor about the market research they have already completed, and have them share demographic data. You can get a real sense of what locations are profitable from the information a good franchisor can provide you with.
Carefully Evaluate your Options
After you have a list of potential sites, start comparing them.
The first thing you need to look for is the traffic patterns around each location. Will it be inconvenient for drivers to reach your location? What about the parking lot? Is it overcrowded? If so, it might be best to choose another space. You should also consider factor in the amount of light your space gets, and whether this will be comfortable for customers and your staff.
You should also do some research on the surrounding businesses. If there’s a popular restaurant near you, it could be extremely beneficial to you. On the other hand, if there are direct competitors sharing your space, you should probably look elsewhere.
At the same time, you need to factor in your budget. No matter how perfect a location seems, if you can’t afford it, it’s not perfect for you.
Mimosa Franchising, LLC Will Help You Close the Deal
Once you’ve decided on the best space, you need to close the deal.
You should ideally receive support from a franchisor in the final negotiation, from examining provisions about lease extensions to unexpected hikes in the rent. It’s advisable to get an attorney to help you review the lease.
Watch out for large fees before you even open the business. For example, if the landlord expects you to cover the costs of a heater replacement, that could set you back before you’ve even had a chance to move in. Factors like these are often overlooked, but they can be crucial details that make or break your operations.
Remember: no space is perfect. You’re going to have issues no matter what location you choose. That’s why Mimosa Salon Suites trains franchise partners on what they should be on the lookout for in terms of costs. What’s more, we inspect the building in order to limit unpleasant surprises during the demolition and construction phases.
The bottom line is that new franchise partners need to be guided by research and reality more than their emotions or their gut. It’s natural to get attached to a particular space, but there could be any number of reasons why it wouldn’t work. Instead, think rationally, and go through a systematic and disciplined process of site selection. It’ll be worth it.
So won’t you join us in creating one million square feet of hope? Apply for your franchise today!