Here are some of the most frequently asked questions by those investigating the possibility of becoming a Sample Lab! Franchisee.
- What is the first step to obtaining a Sample Lab! Franchise?
- What does a Master Agreement allow?
- What determines the number of stores to be developed and how much time is allowed to fulfil the schedule?
- What is the initial franchise fee?
- What are continuing license fees?
- Are there store opening fees?
- Is there a Marketing fee?
- What is the total investment for a Sample Lab! franchise?
- What kind of experience is required?
- What size specifications are required for a Sample Lab! location?
- Where do I purchase my equipment, point-of sale, POS, signage, website?
- What kind of training does Sample Lab! provide?
- What form of continuing operations support will I receive?
- Do I receive guidance on the mix of brands and products in store?
- How soon can I be in operation once I have been accepted as a Franchisee?
Completely fill out and submit an application for each party involved. Once qualified, you will be contacted by one of our regional development managers. A Master Franchise candidate must establish sufficient financial capability to develop their relevant country or agreed territory.
A Master Franchise Agreement is negotiated individually and allows for sub-franchising. The Master Franchise Agreement also requires the Master Franchise Partner to set up a franchising infrastructure, including training, marketing, real estate and operational support. A Master Franchise Partner needs to open and maintain at least one company store for external training.
to fulfil the schedule?
The Sample Lab! philosophy is to provide a territory that will accommodate the development of a mutually agreeable number of stores, typically with a 10 year development schedule.
The Franchise Partner pays an up-front, initial Franchise Fee. The Fee is assessed by Sample Lab! International on the size and market potential of the Country or Region being purchased.
The Franchise Partner pays a Continuing License Fee which is equal to 6% of monthly gross revenue from all stores that are open.
At the time of purchase, Sample Lab! International will advise and agree the number of stores to be opened during the term of the Franchise Agreement. This number will be broken down into an annual store opening requirement. A store opening fee is payable as each store is opened. The store opening fee is the greater of USD $5,000 or 25% of the store opening fee charged by the master franchisee.
Franchise Partners must establish a marketing fund for their territory and pay into it 2.5% of gross sales. 0.5% of the 2.5% is paid to Sample Lab! International marketing. The remainder is used for marketing in your territory.
Store set-up costs will vary depending on country, location, local construction codes and many other factors. We can help you develop a relevant estimate for your area of interest once it is identified.
9. What kind of experience is required?
You should have experience in retailing (preferably FMCG), advertising, product/promotional marketing, business development or operations of well known brands.
The Sample Lab! concept can operate effectively in a wide range of space configurations. As a general rule, we recommend developing stores in the range of 90 to 350 square metres and kiosks in the range of 10 to 70 square metres.
These will be provided either directly from Sample Lab! International or we will provide an Approved Vendor List for securing all of these items.
Franchise Partners and their designated operators must attend and experience first hand Sample Lab! in Tokyo Japan or the nearest flag-ship location (as designated by Sample Lab! International), and be accompanied by a representative of Sample Lab! International. At this time product preparation, operations and in-store experiences will be shared. There is no fee for the initial program; however Franchise Partners need to pay their own costs of transportation, lodging and meals.
In addition to an operations manual, systems and other materials, you will receive support in areas of store design and development, franchising, marketing, store operations and supply chain. Sample Lab! International has a major Support Centre to provide this support.
Yes. Sample Lab! International will provide appropriate product specifications and indicative case studies or what has worked well in stores. Sample Lab! International is the sole source for this guidance and advice coupled with your local market knowledge and networks.
You are required to open your first store in 180 days after signing your Franchise Agreement. Opening your first store is subject to completion of all requirements and obtaining adequate suppliers/brands.
Find out more!
We have attempted to answer the most commonly asked questions about Sample Lab! International Franchise Program. The information presented is not specific to any one market and should be used as a rough guide only. Specific details, including fees and commissions will be on a market-by-market basis. In the event you have additional questions, or need help in completing the application(s), you may reach us by calling Anthony J James, General Manager, Sample Lab! International on phone number + 61 416 21 1234 or completing our Enquiry Form.