Steps to Ownership
1. Review and Respond:
• Complete & return confidential franchise application.
• Complete & return confidential financial statement.
2. Responding Applicants will receive:
• Introductory Video explaining SIGNS FIRST concept & marketing process.
• SIGNS FIRST franchise agreement & U.F.O.C.
• Franchiser's audited financial statement
• List of SIGNS FIRST franchised owners and locations
• Itemized list showing Franchisee's initial investment
3. Federal Trade Commission Requirements:
• Applicants are required to sign, date & return one of the "Acknowledgement of Receipt by Prospective Franchisee" pages located at the end of the U.F.O.C.
4. Telephone or Personal Interview with SIGNS FIRST Creator & CEO:
• Question & answer session
5. Tour a SIGNS FIRST Store:
• Visit with franchise owner
• See the "SIGNS FIRST System" in operation
• Observe personnel and the 5 step manufacturing process
6. Visit the Franchiser's Headquarters in Memphis, TN:
• Meet the SIGNS FIRST franchise support team
• Receive an overview of training, manuals and continuing education video & audio library
• Compare single store ownership & area development
• Discuss financing options, equipment leasing & working capital
• Review survey of the exclusive territory
7. With Background Checks Completed:
• Choose a single store or area development
• Define exclusive territory
• Sign franchise agreement and pay initial franchise fee
• Formalize a business plan
8. Location Process:
• Detailed demographic study
• Receive initial store set-up manual
• Site selection
• Lease negotiation & signing
• Construction
9. Orientation & Pre-Opening Planning:
• Fixtures & Equipment
• Opening inventory
• Showroom decor
• Grand Opening & on-going advertising
• Personnel testing & selection
10. Training Program:
• 12 day's training at franchise headquarters
• "Continuing Education" at franchisee's location
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