Looking at Multi-Unit Franchising Through a Single-Unit Lens
As ambassadors of a brand dedicated to early education and child care, Primrose Schools Franchise Owners have a responsibility greater than just owning their own businesses. We take special care when selecting individuals to fill this critical leadership role, ensuring that each potential Franchise Owner shares our values and our commitment to creating a brighter future for all children. We apply the same degree of thoughtfulness when considering Franchise Owners who wish to operate multiple schools, which is one reason why we take a single-unit approach to multi-unit franchising.
Our approach focuses on each individual Franchise Owner as a passionate owner-investor, examining his or her goals, motivations and the needs of the community. Adopting a single-unit mindset helps ensure that we take every step necessary to lay the groundwork for future success when awarding multiple units.
Building the Foundation for Future Success and Growth
As part of this process, Primrose has traditionally awarded only one school at a time to new Franchise Owners. Once the initial school is established, we have very open, honest and intentional conversations about unit expansion options if that is a part of the franchisee’s long-term vision.
For multi-unit Franchise Owners DeDee and Kevin Gebhardt, these conversations led to a mutual decision that the couple was ready for expansion. The Gebhardts originally became Franchise Owners more than three years ago when they purchased and started operating two Primrose schools in the Dallas metro-area. They quickly rose among the highest performing schools in the country, winning system-wide awards and becoming a training school for new Franchise Owners to visit during the school opening process. They established a solid foundation of loyal parents and Primrose “fans” in their schools and felt motivated to make an immediate, positive impact on the lives of even more children and families in their community. So, when the opportunity arose to open an additional school in the Frisco area, it was clear that the Gebhardts were equipped for success and ready to grow their business.
DeDee and Kevin are a testament to how the Primrose approach to multi-unit franchising empowers each Franchise Owner and enriches their communities through quality education and care. In fact, the couple celebrated the opening of their third school, Primrose School of Frisco at Main and Teel, earlier this month.
Exploring Opportunities as a Multi-Unit Owner
If you’re interested in learning more about this perspective on multi-unit franchising, I encourage you to read a recent article I authored in the April issue of Franchising USA. In it, you’ll find insights on growing your business with a single-unit mindset as well as pointers on determining if you’re ready to take the next step.
If you are planning to attend the Multi-Unit Franchising Conference in Las Vegas next week, stop by booth #228 to learn more about Primrose franchising opportunities. Kim, Jamie and I would love to meet you!