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Franchise Opportunity Information Center

The franchise universe offers a variety of franchise opportunities in a myriad of franchise categories encompassing everything from advertising franchises to home based franchises to women's franchises.

The Franchise Information Center at America's Best Franchises will provide Franchise Opportunity Information that may be relevant to your search for a franchise and provide answers to Frequently Asked Questions as they relate to our Directory of Franchise Opportunities, Franchise Businesses and Business Opportunities.

Additionally, we'll feature franchise articles, profile franchise and business opportunities and cover franchise business strategies that an entrepreneur needs to know to start and run a franchise.

Pizza Patrón Premier Latino Pizza Brand

Pizza Patrón hispanic franchise fills a niche in the Pizza Marketplace.

While many pizzeria operators spent 2007 struggling with softening same-store sales, at least one pizza chain booked a pretty good year.

Pizza Patron markets itself as the “premier Latino pizza brand,” building stores in primarily Spanish-speaking or Latino neighborhoods. The Dallas-based company has recorded five straight quarters of double-digit same-store sales increases.

"The continued sales growth is a sign that we are on the right track," said Pizza Patron founder Antonio Swad last fall when the Q3 2007 numbers were released. "Our core philosophy of providing excellent food at exceptional values every day has helped us gain valuable market share in the ultra-competitive pizza segment.”

The company currently has 72 locations open in six states and has 21 new stores under construction, with more in the pipeline.

Pizza Patron staffs its restaurants with bilingual employees, and offers menus in both English and Spanish. Store managers also live in the neighborhoods where their restaurants are located.

“Our entire brand is strategically designed to fill a huge void we saw in the marketplace,” said Andrew Gamm, director of brand development for Pizza Patron. “Obviously, there is no shortage of pizza outlets in the United States, but no one was specifically geared to serve the Latino-Hispano customer. That's our niche.”

According to Stephen Chavez, vice president of Hispanic marketing for Venice, Calif.-based marketing firm Ketchum, the size of the U.S. Latino market is about 45 million people.

“You are looking at about 13 percent of the total population,” he said. “That number is projected to triple by 2050.”

Hispanics in the U.S. currently wield about $976 billion in spending power, a number that’s expected to increase to over $1 trillion by 2010.

The company garnered widespread attention, along with a few death threats, last year when officials announced restaurants would accept pesos along with U.S. currency as payment for pizzas. But, the Pizza por Pesos program, as it was known, proved to be so popular it has become a permanent fixture at the chain.

“We decided to make the program permanent last year and we haven't looked back,” Gamm said. “Even though less than 5 percent of our sales are transacted with pesos, it does provide a legitimate service to many of our customers, plus, it does a good job of reinforcing our core brand values to the public.”

Targeting changing demographics

Swad began his restaurant career in Columbus, Ohio, at age 15, working as a dishwasher in a family-style steak house. Several other restaurant jobs followed, and Swad eventually moved to Dallas, where he opened a pizzeria in a Hispanic neighborhood.

He quickly learned that most of his customers spoke Spanish, and realized he could tap into a huge market by serving those customers. Swad recruited bilingual employees and had menus printed in both Spanish and English.

“When you have a Latino customer coming into the store or calling on the phone, it helps when someone is on the other side who can understand them,” Chavez said. “Other chains may not be thinking about that."

Richard Slawsky, editor
Pizza Marketplace

Inquire about Pizza Patrón Franchise Opportunity

DIGIKIDS Franchise Success Story

DIGIKIDS Franchise Safety-sleeve® Protects Critical Child-ID Material

Every day, nationwide, over 2,200 children (approximately one child every minute and a half!) are reported missing or lost. Experts know that access to quality photos and accurate descriptions in the first 20 minutes following a child’s disappearance are key to a successful, safe return of lost or missing children. Traditional photo ID cards are a start, but do not go far enough, nor can they be easily and quickly distributed.

DIGIKIDS, Inc., headquartered in Fort Worth, Texas, offers a child-safety disc that allows parents to quickly provide two high-resolution digital photos along with medical and identifying information to law enforcement officials, the media, the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC), and other agencies.

“Our goal was to develop the most advanced and effective child-safety ID available,” commented Michael J. Childs, DIGIKIDS President/CEO. “We started from scratch in our efforts to speed up the response in a missing-child emergency. It took us two years to fully develop, but using up-to-date, digital technology, we developed a program that is like no other in the child-ID industry.” Childs also mentioned the program had to be digital so everything could be immediately transmitted to authorities.

The resulting DIGIKIDS® business card-sized disc makes it easy for parents to provide child identification information to authorities and others quickly and accurately. The secure child-ID kits are produced onsite in two minutes or less. Its patent-pending technology offers parents a secure and efficient tool that can help speed the return of lost or missing children.

To package and protect this critical tool, DIGIKIDS selected the Univenture Safety-sleeve® to help in the fight to provide parents with peace of mind by protecting their children from predators.

“The Safety-sleeve product combined with Univenture's ability to create exactly what we needed was the total packaging solution we were looking for,” Childs stated. “It is a custom made, two-compartment, clear-polypropylene sleeve with Safety-sleeve material separating the two compartments, protecting the DIGIKIDS CD and the photo ID card. During the manufacturing process, the DIGIKIDS logo is embossed on the poly sleeve, aiding our branding efforts.”

The company selected Univenture after conducting an Internet search for disc packaging. They tried several typical disc sleeves, which they discovered stuck to the product, which caused damage to the disc.

“It wasn’t long before Univenture caught our eye,” said Childs. “I personally worked with their staff from the beginning of the project and was immediately struck by how quickly they grasped what we needed and how quickly they offered a solution.”

The Safety-sleeve is constructed with a non-woven polyester clean-room material, which utilizes no chemical binders in the fibers or laminate and will not shed or form lint. Its fibers actually suspend the disc above the material, while allowing small dirt and debris particles to fall to its base and become trapped, away from the disc surface. This helps prevent scratches and dust from disrupting the laser beam from reading the disc and causing distortion during playback, an important consideration for DIGIKIDS.

The Safety-sleeve is longwearing, durable, and inexpensive, with a reputation as a superior form of packaging, as it eliminates much of the risk of damage that can occur with other types of packaging.

Univenture offers a wide range of 80mm and business-card disc-packaging products to meet many design preferences and functional requirements. With full-service manufacturing capabilities, Univenture delivers an unparalleled combination of quick turnaround times and overall lower costs for any disc or media packaging requirement.

Childs added, “We liked the Safety-sleeve suggestion because it is patented, and our child-ID product is important enough to look for the best. With it, we have had 100% success protecting what may be the most important disc a parent will ever carry.”

Go to DIGIKIDS Franchise Business Profile

VALPAK Franchise Opportunities

A VALPAK franchise offers 40 years of experience and a core of franchisees with a long track record of successes.

IS VALPAK FOR YOU?

A Valpak franchise is a unique type of business opportunity. While we wish we could take anyone and place them successfully into our business, we realize that a Valpak franchise is not for everyone. We are an advertising business and a sales business. Most business does not come from call-in clients; our franchisees and sales representatives must go out and call on those businesses.

Because we value those advertisers, our franchisees provide hands-on customer service to business owners who rely on our expertise to help them grow their business.

Based on this, the Valpak franchise opportunity is suited for people who love direct sales in the business-to-business environment as well as managing a direct sales force. We like to say that, in purchasing a Valpak franchise, you will be establishing your own sales organization in a defined market.

A VALPAK franchise offers:

40 years experience - As Valpak franchisees will tell you, "This is a marathon, it is not a sprint." Many franchisees have succeeded for over a couple of decades and can help you with your business plan.
Brand Awareness - You're representing a product consumers know and use.
- 92% of adults receiving Valpak are aware of it.
- 90% of adults receiving Valpak usually open it and look through the coupon offers.
  (Source: Source: 2008 Valpak Readership Survey; Directions In Research, eRewards, SurveyGizmo; March 2008)

No Royalties - No monthly fees as a percentage of your gross sales. As a franchise member, we are your partner. When our franchisees increase their mailings, our business also increases.
Minimal franchise fee - only $17,500 in the US and $15,000 in Canada.
No Inventory - You won't have to spend an additional $50,000 in inventory just so you can watch product sit on a shelf.
Outstanding Training - This is a subject unto itself and deserves your careful review.
Sales Incentive Programs - Top franchise sales representatives received cash awards and the members of the Chairman's Circle win an all expense paid trip to an exotic location. In addition, sales reps and franchisees meet annually at Coupon University.
Advertising Support - Through our National Advertising efforts, you've probably seen us on ABC, CBS and NBC evening news as have millions of our target consumers and advertisers.
No previous advertising experience necessary.

VALPAK Franchise Opportunity Information

P.A.S.S. Packaging and Shipping Business

P.A.S.S. Packaging & Shipping has been making business ownership succeed for people from all walks of life for 25 years. P.A.S.S offers business center business opportunities with all the bells and whistles of a traditional franchise only without royalties. This can save you many thousands of dollars every year.

P.A.S.S. stores are being placed around the world. There are now more than 800 pack and ship stores operating in most of the United States and internationally. The P.A.S.S. system offers you the opportunity to own your own business and become part of a rapidly growing service industry, without a large investment. You can start small and expand at your own pace as you become familiar with the business, perhaps becoming a multi-store system. If this sounds attractive, it just might be for you!

We get a lot of questions regarding opening a P.A.S.S Packaging and Shipping retail business center so we thought we would include a few of those here.

How can I be sure P.A.S.S. will help me succeed with my store?
We have 25+ years of experience in making business ownership work for people like you. In fact, we’ve been helping people open their own packaging, shipping, and business centers since the concept originated. When we sign up a new P.A.S.S. storeowner, we know that our reputation is on the line. We rely on your enthusiastic involvement, and our future profit is determined solely by your success. If we can help you meet your personal and professional goals, you will be one more positive reference for us.

Can anyone open a P.A.S.S. store?
Great interest has prompted many serious inquiries about starting P.A.S.S. stores. In order to maintain a productive national system and a good reputation, P.A.S.S. intends to work with people showing potential, those who have the financial and management strengths that make them capable of developing single or multi-store operations.

How do I choose a location?
We will perform on-site evaluations and analyze your individual needs. By applying criteria established through many years of experience, we will help you consider all options and guide you in making your ultimate site selection.

Will you help me set up my Pack and Ship store?
Absolutely. We’ll show you how to create a highly functional, efficient store operation. From the interior design and installation of fixtures and equipment, to the stocking of supplies and maintenance of inventory, you’ll have us to rely on. National programs are in place for savings on supplies and equipment purchases.

Is there a lot for me to learn?
Comprehensive pre-opening training for you and your employees will help ensure that you are able to competently conduct your store's business and keep it operating smoothly. In addition, we are available for continual field assistance, to help you with special or unexpected situations.

What will attract customers to my store?
P.A.S.S. has developed effective advertising programs that have proved successful for other stores. We will assist you in creating marketing strategies and launching campaigns that will keep you in the public eye.

Can I be a good manager?
A genuinely concerned team of qualified sales, marketing, and executive management consultants with over 25 years of experience are always available to offer any advice and support you might need to build a successful business.

How do I know that existing P.A.S.S. stores are successful?
We will provide you with a list of references so that you can personally, and at your own discretion, contact them and get their opinions.

Once I am established, what are my future options?
You can start additional stores, which opens the door to a whole new business experience. In addition, you can help train the personnel for other new stores opening in your part of the country, and we'll pay you a training fee, of course.

How many employees will I need?
Two people can operate your store the majority of the time. Three to five temporary employees will probably be necessary during peak and holiday seasons. For multi-store operations, we strongly recommend an operational manager.

How extensive is the training?
All new store owners spend a minimum of seven days at our training center and store before opening their first outlet. This seminar will familiarize you with all of the P.A.S.S. operational, sales, accounting, and marketing systems. During your store's grand opening period, our training managers will conduct a three-day comprehensive, in-store training program for you and your employees. And of course, we're entirely at your disposal until youre quite comfortable operating you're new business.

Will P.A.S.S. continue to offer field assistance?
Yes. Our vice president of operations and/or field management personnel will visit your store periodically. They will help solve any developing problems and assist you in expanding your business. They will also introduce you to any new sales and marketing programs. And our staff is just a phone call away, if you need immediate help.

What sales, marketing, and advertising programs are available?
Our marketing manual is unsurpassed in providing complete and descriptive details for promoting your business. Moreover, we are associates of a national support team, which serves as a network for shipping and mailing centers. Besides giving our stores volume buying power with nationally recognized vendors, the network continually offers our stores marketing and promotional ideas and materials which take advantage of many years of combined advertising experience in the packaging and mailing industry.

Must I continue to purchase my inventory and supplies from you?
P.A.S.S. has established national account relationships with several vendors and offers these items to you at a very competitive price. However, if you can purchase the same quality materials elsewhere, we have absolutely no objections. Our intent is to ensure that all P.A.S.S. stores uniformly provide the highest-quality products and services to all customers. Our interest is in your success, not in keeping you financially captive.

How does P.A.S.S.’s consulting fee compare to others?
We strive to keep our consulting fee among the lowest in the industry.

Is financing available?
Above all, we're looking for established and responsible people for our stores. Financing is available for such individuals, upon credit approval.

Can I buy just one store?
Of course. Most new owners do. Many very quickly open additional stores, once they have familiarized themselves with the operation. We have numerous multiple-store owners.

What if I want to control a whole marketing area?
P.A.S.S. will offer area development agreements to qualified associates interested in managing an entire marketing region over a negotiated period of time. A portion of the fee must be paid when the development agreement is signed, and will be credited against a predetermined fee when each store opens.

Why should I become a P.A.S.S. associate?
P.A.S.S. offers a unique opportunity to own a business and become part of a rapidly growing service industry. It is a national system that provides total support in store development, start-up assistance, and merchandising, plus a management team with over 25 years of experience.

The Mail, Packaging & Shipping industry is providing more services than ever before and small business, home office business owners and consumers are using our services more than ever. ac

Inquire further about P.A.S.S Packaging & Shipping

SIR GROUT shines in Economic Downturn

SIR GROUT franchise shines during an economic downturn. Even in a recession some business models perform financially. The home services sector offers a variety of franchise businesses that offer a service homeowners need...even in an economic downturn.

One of the best grout sealing franchises in the market is SIR GROUT. Unlike other companies in the grout restoration business, SIR GROUT is virtually 100% focused on grout colorsealing (recoloring and sealing of grout). Other grout restoration franchises also focus on tile repair, tile replacement, re-grouting, and grout patching. Although these services are needed in the market, they are messy, more difficult to master, and prone to “customer call- backs” (returning to correct a problem). The SIR GROUT system is simple, easy to master, not messy, and possesses an incredible customer satisfaction rate with relatively few customer call-backs. Our proprietary products and system are of the highest quality in the industry and we stand behind our work 100%. In short, we believe we are the best grout sealing franchise on the market.

SIR GROUT Franchise Profile

Buy A Franchise...Where do I Start?

Buy A Franchise...Where Do You Start?

If you’re reading this article, you’re likely interested in buying a franchise business. You’re also probably not sure what to expect as you venture into the universe of franchises that might be available to you. I could put together some sort of list for you to follow but I thought for this report I would ask you to use your imagination. I will describe the process, the experience you will have, but through an imaginary set of eyes. Please, follow along with me as I describe the process, even though your situation might be slightly different. Most of the adventure will mirror what you are trying to accomplish and the experiences that follow.

What's Your Business Background?

Please imagine, for the sake of this franchising story, that you’re a man or woman in his/her late 40’s or early 50’s. You have a working wife/husband and two teenagers at home both of which would love to have an opportunity to attend the college of their choice.

You’re a hard working man/woman whose career has spanned some 25 years dabbling in a few different unsatisfying jobs but ultimately, you settled in quite nicely as an executive recruiter for a large corporation.

You were content with your income and even managed to put a few bucks away for that rainy day, when your children were ready for university. Even so, you had always wondered what it would be like to “be your own boss.” You’ve always wanted to have complete control of your destiny and to have the freedom to come and go whenever you wanted. You’ve always wanted to build a business for your future. Something your family could be proud of and maybe be a part of.

Then, one day, your boss sadly informs you, that you have been downsized. Business has been slow and corporate is forced to “get leaner”. Your department has become expendable. You’re fortunate that you have some severance pay or a golden parachute to cover you for a while. What are you going to do with your day to day life? You’re too young to retire and financially your nest egg isn’t enough to sustain you and your wife/husband and aspiring children for a lifetime.

You've Been Downsized...What Are Your Options?

You have a few options to consider. You can scout the job market but business is down all over and corporate America is outsourcing many new jobs and hiring younger workers. The overall economy is in the doldrums. Do you really want to go to work for someone again? What happens 5 years from now? Will you be downsized again at 55 years old. Then what?

Should you consider buying your own franchise business? A franchise is not quite as risky and you like the idea of an experienced mentor to guide you through the process of building a business. So, you gather the family and discuss the choices you have. It’s very important that the family as a whole be on board with your decision to start your own franchise business, become your own boss. It won’t be easy. It requires a lot of hard work and certainly long hours in the beginning.

Before Making a Decision, Do a Financial Audit

Financially, you’ll have to do an audit of your financial statement. You can’t expect to immediately earn, in a franchise business, what you were making as an executive recruiter. It will take a while to get there. Your family will have to budget and make some sacrifices. Nonetheless, your family has decided to move forward and pursue owning your own franchise business.

What to Expect When Choosing the Right Franchise for You

So, now what do you do? There are about 3000 franchise companies to choose from. What are your interests, what would you like to do? Do you have business skills? Are you a good salesman or a top manager? Maybe you’re good with your hands, or you have strong communication skills and are a people person. Would you get bored standing behind a counter all day? Do you need to get out and network your business and be around people? These are all very important questions to consider as you search for the franchise business of your dreams.

You discover there are franchise consultants that can help you with these questions. A good franchise consultant will help you set your franchise goals, establish a plan, get the plan into action, and help you stay on track all along the way.

Your other option would be to use an online franchise directory to browse the thousands of franchise opportunities that might be available to you where you want live and operate your franchise business. You can request information direct from the franchisor and research the franchises you have an interest in. Most franchise companies have qualified consultants to help determine if you’re a good fit for their franchise opportunity.

Franchise Validation and Compatibility

Either way, at the end of the day, you’ll likely have narrowed your search to 3-4 franchises that have territory where you live that interest you. You’ll be asked to go through a “validation” process with the franchisor. They want to see if you’re a good fit for them and you’ll want to validate them as the franchisor you want to joint venture with.

Typically, you’ll end up with 1 or 2 franchise companies you will choose to pursue further. If you’ve met the set of qualifying standards of the franchisor, you’ll be invited to attend their “Discovery Day.” Here you will have an opportunity to personally meet with key personnel of the franchise company. This might be possible in your local market or you may need to travel to a regional training facility or to the headquarters of the franchisor.

It's Time For You to Make a Decision

Next, it’s time for you to make a decision. It’s probably taken you 2-4 weeks to do all your homework and complete the validation process. You should have all the information you need to determine which franchise is right for you. When you make your choice you will be awarded a franchise.

You're Buying Your Own Food Franchise

Imagine that you’re opening your own food franchise. To do this, you’ve had to meet certain liquid capital (not borrowed funds) and net worth requirements and fit the profile of an ideal franchise candidate.

You’ll pay an initial franchise fee at the time the franchise is awarded. The initial fee varies from franchise to franchise but usually covers the cost of training, territory analysis, site identification, and franchise development costs.

The Franchise Training Program

Then you’ll go through an intensive training program at franchise headquarters or at regional facilities which may include:

How to prepare your products and deliver your services to your customer
How to manage the business
How to hire and fire employees
How to market your business
Sales and Networking
Operations
Corporate policies and procedures

As a franchisee, you’ll also have to do everything in compliance with the consistency standards of the franchisor and agree to at least a 10 year term.

Your Franchise Investment

Once you’ve completed training and your site has been located, you’re ready to go. You’ll have to pay rental deposits, utility deposits, and telephone deposits, buy furniture and fixtures, purchase an initial inventory, initial signage, initial office supplies, and hire your staff to prepare for your grand opening gala. All along the way, you’ll get constant support from your franchisor’s field consultant.

How much money you make depends on many things, including the location of your franchise business, customer service, product quality and your ability to manage and control the business.

DIGIKIDS® Child ID Franchise

DIGIKIDS Child ID franchise appears to be one of the top franchises in the Child ID industry. How big is the Child ID industry and does DIGIKIDS have policies in place for franchise owners?

There are about 60 million children at and below the ages of 14 years, which represents the best ages for our service. Since child ID's need to be updated on a regular basis, most can participate in the DIGIKIDS® program for many years. And, as children get older, babies are born, keeping the size of the market constant or growing all the time.

Yes, DIGIKIDS® does have standard operating procedures in place not only for our franchisees but also for the industry as a whole. We've developed systems and operating procedures that place you at the forefront of the child id business. The DIGIKIDS® Operating Manuals, training and continuing support that we provide are a culmination of our experience and expertise in business, franchising and child identification. Our proprietary computer software, programs and systems are designed to help you provide the highest level of child safety identifications and customer satisfaction in the industry from the first day you begin operations.

DIGIKIDS® Home Based Business Information

Ingredients for a Successful Business or Franchise

What are the ingredients for a successful new business or franchise? Let's assume you have found what you think is a successful new franchise or business opportunity. What do you do now? First and foremost, you must establish the business plan for your opportunity. Entrepreneurial success emerges when the entrepreneur executes a solid business plan targeted at a validated franchise or business opportunity.

Your business plan will help you shape your vision into a more efficient opportunity by raising critical questions, researching answers for the questions, and then answering them.

Once you have implemented your business plan and you are ready to start your business, you will have to meet certain criteria to succeed. There is no question that the lead entrepreneur is the most important factor in a successful franchise or business opportunity. Hopefully, you have chosen an opportunity that can take advantage of your business background and skill sets. This is no time for on- the-job-training. Relevant experience is very important to the success of your venture.

Successful entrepreneurs make decisions quickly and implement them when appropriate. If you're risk adverse you may have made a bad choice. To survive and to succeed, you need to be quick and nimble - fast and flexible.

Successful businesses or franchises keep overhead low. Be frugal and follow a defined budget. Focus everyday on low overhead, high productivity and minimal ownership of capital assets.

You could do everything just right but if you don't have great customer service none of it will matter. Teach customer service everyday to your staff and keep a close eye on keeping customers happy. In fact, work hard at having happy customers, happy workers and happy suppliers. Be a friendly company!

Lastly, have fun and have an ongoing passion for a business you love. If you can't drive to work everday with a smile on your face, you'll have a difficult time having long term success.

Start Your Own Adult Business

Adult Prepaid Cards are one of the premier opportunities in the multi-billion dollar a year adult entertainment industry. They offer a wide variety of money-making Adult Internet Programs, including turnkey adult websites and Adult Prepaid Cards. Following are some of the most Frequently Asked Questions and answers relating to the top business opportunity:

Q. How long has Big Hitters been in business?
a.10+ Years. The owners of Big Hitters started doing business in 1991, offering traditional dating phone line services out of their offices in Denver, Colorado. Big Hitters moved to sunny California in 1997 and later launched our first commercial web site program over labor day weekend in May of 1997.
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Q. Does Big Hitters charge a minimum fee to get started?
a. Yes. Our minimum one-time programming fee is $99 for our monthly web site special. Most of our turnkey web site programs cost less than $500.00 in one-time programming fees.
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Q. How long does it take to get started?
a.Most turnkey web site programs will be ready for business within 3 days from receipt of your paid order. Custom web site production can take anywhere from 14-28 days for completion. House versions of adult prepaid cards are shipped the next day from receipt of your paid order. Custom prepaid card production can take anywhere from 14-28 days for completion.
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Q. How much money does the average person make per month?
a.This is the hardest question to answer, as we have seen some customers earn great sums of money every month, while other customers with the same exact type of web sites make nothing, and what's the difference between them? One thing, effective advertising.
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Q. Does Big Hitters guarantee I will make money?
a.No. It is impossible to guarantee how much money you may may make, or how long it may take to make it. We do not offer any type of "get rich quick" business opportunity.
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Q. What is Big Hitters refund policy?
a.Big Hitters follows a strict no-refund policy, both on purchase of web sites and adult prepaid cards.
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Q. Is Internet porn legal?
a.Yes. All images, videos, and any other viewable content found on any web site owned and/or hosted by Big Hitters is in full compliance with United States' 18 U.S.C. 2257 Record Keeping Requirements law, and only displays content from models that are over 18yrs. old.
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Q. Do I need a business license?
a.There is no known business license required to operate any of the web sites offered by Big Hitters. Depending on local laws and regulations, it is possible that you may be required to hold a sellers-permit or similar business license when selling adult prepaid cards to retailers and/or consumers.
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Q. Can I track my sales online and when do I get paid?
a.You will be able to track both the hits and sales coming to your web site 24/7, 365 days a year. Payment is made to you directly by the corporate sponsor of each affiliate program you will be marketing. Please refer to our service agreement for the exact payout dates of each affiliate program.
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Q. Does Big Hitters belong to the Better Business Bureau?
a.No. The Better Business Bureau does not offer membership to any company offering adult entertainment services. Despite our being a non-member, they do maintain a reliability report on Big Hitters online, verifying our time in business and the positive manner in which we respond to their inquiries.
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Q. What about negative reports found on RipOffReport or other blogs?
a.Sound-off type web sites or blogs like RipOffReport.com should not be trusted entriely. We have read and responded to negative posts made by numerous people that never even did business with our company, but rather disaprove of our adult offerings and want to discredit our industry.
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Q. Will Big Hitters help me to advertise my web site?
a.We do offer search engine submission services for a fee, plus paid banner advertising on independently owned adult portals, which can really help to get a good amount of name recognition to your web site, but does not guarantee any specific amount of sales.

Adult Prepaid Cards Home Based Business Info

Best Franchises to Own in a Recession

The Best Franchises to Own during a recession are those that will thrive no matter what the overall economy is doing. You'll want to own a franchise or business with products or services consumers can't do without.

If you're concerned about the security of your job or your family is searching for income alternatives, a recession-proof business may offer a near term solution with long term possibilities. Let's face it, the economy, both domestic and world-wide is in a complete funk. Americans and foreigners are not only concerned about the securinty of their jobs, most feel economic conditions will only worsen from here.

In the event, we do see a "recession" unemployment rates will increase to as much as 8%-9% and job security across the board will worsen. Further, it will become even more difficlut to replace a job with an income level you've become accustomed to.

Following are some "recession-proof" franchise opportunity categories that will likely be in demand regardless of the degree of recession:

1. Staffing Services Franchises
Employers during difficult economic times seek flexibility in their hiring practices as well as workforce solutions.

2. Healthcare Franchises
Healthcare franchise businesses come in a variety of recession-proof business models. In-home non-medical and skilled nursing care regardless of the economic environment will thrive. Not only do you have a service the public can't do without, you have an age demographic working deeply in your favor. At no other time in history has there been such an urgent need for healthcare professionals and health and wellness franchise businesses.

3. Child Education & Tutoring Franchises
Regardless of the economy, parents will not shy away from providing their children educational opportunities. From specialty tutoring programs like Children's Art, Math & Reading Tutoring, Science, to test preparation for college bound students and specialty learning centers, the business of education for children will always thrive.

4. Home Improvement Franchises
The credit markets that provide financing for the purchase of homes are not only having a hard time finding money to loan their adjusting the requirments to acquire loans. That means people will turn to fixing up their existing homes. Home Improvement franchise businesses offering home restoration services, bath and kitchen remodeling, painting, landscaping and more will thrive in a recessionary environment driven by the credit markets.

5. Pet Related Franchises
In the eyes of, at least, the American public, pets are treated almost as well as their children. The pet care and pet supplies market is booming and a recession will not change that. You may see fewer diamond pet necklaces purchased but when it comes to food, pet staples and pet care, America will not go without for their pets.

If you're concerned about your job security, don't despair. A franchise business that will thrive in a recessionary economy that can use your skill sets is only a phone call away.

Pigtails & Crewcuts Answers Your Questions

Pigtails & Crewcuts poses an excellent franchise opportunity, whether you're a mother returning to the workforce or an experienced entrepreneur looking for a multi-unit investment.

We offer an upscale children's hair experience, where parents and their little ones can finally feel comfortable and welcome. Our waiting area is designed to be as relaxing as a living room and as fun as a playroom equipped with the latest toys and games. And when it's time for the haircut, our custom-kiddie chairs do all the entertaining.

That said, following are some Questions & Answers to help you get to know our franchise opportunity just a bit better:

Q. How do I know if I'm the right person to own a Pigtails & Crewcuts franchise?

A. If you enjoy working with people, especially children, and have a burning desire to be part of a rapidly expanding $55-billion industry, then Pigtails & Crewcuts may be the right choice for you. While a background in business is helpful, we do not require experience specific to the hair-care industry. We are seeking franchise owners who want their success to reflect their efforts and who will represent our brand in a positive, professional, customer focused fashion.

Q. What makes this opportunity extraordinary?

A. The overall hair care industry in the U.S. is estimated to exceed $55 billion with approximately $5 billion spent in the children’s segment. Pigtails & Crewcuts is one of the few salon concepts to expand aggressively on a national level. There are many locally owned and a couple of chains of children's salons on the market right now, but none provide the scope of services, breadth of experience and family-friendly atmosphere available at Pigtails & Crewcuts.

Q. What kind of support should I expect?

A. We want your Pigtails & Crewcuts to be a success. To this end, we provide initial training in our own offices and provide hands on support to help you:

Find a suitable location for your salon
Negotiate your lease
Set up your salon's design and layout
Train your employees upon opening
Get the latest equipment at the best prices
Select approved retail products for your salon
Develop and implement a full marketing plan

To provide ongoing support, we hold regular meetings to educate franchisees on the latest operational and marketing techniques and make routine visits to your salon. Of course we are always available via email, phone or fax.

Q. What does it cost to open a Pigtails & Crewcuts salon?

A. You should expect to invest approximately $150,000 per location ($70,000 - $100,000 less than some competitors) to open a Pigtails & Crewcuts franchise. Franchise owners typically finance up to 80% of this amount. Once you open, you will pay an ongoing Royalty fee of 5% of sales.

Q. Can I open multiple units?

A. Subject to an adequate level of business management experience and availability of investment capital we encourage our franchisees to own more than one unit. In fact, we offer substantial discounts of initial franchise fees for multi-unit operators.

Q. What locations are available?

A. We are currently seeking qualified franchisees in all areas of the U.S. with the exception of certain states in which we are not registered. Please Contact Us to see if we have locations available in your desired area.

Q. Do I need to run the salon myself?

A. For single store operators, we expect the franchise owner to be involved in the day to day operation of the salon. Multi-store owners will need to build a team of qualified trained store managers to effectively represent the Pigtails & Crewcuts brand.

Q. Who is behind Pigtails & Crewcuts?

A. Pigtails & Crewcuts is owned and managed by Bucky Cook and Wade Brannon. Bucky and Wade each have more than 20 years of experience in the successful building of retail store concepts, including the widely known Heavenly Ham, a specialty food chain. As the President and Senior Vice President of the Heavenly Ham system, Bucky and Wade grew that system from a single store to over 230 locations. During their tenure, Heavenly Ham was ranked #1 in its category by Entrepreneur Magazine for 10+ years.

Bucky and Wade discovered Pigtails & Crewcuts in Atlanta, and purchased the concept. They work personally with franchise owners and remain excited about the potential for growth of a new category in the hair care industry, the low cost of entry, simplicity of the business model and the opportunity to develop Pigtails & Crewcuts into the leading children’s hair care brand in the United States.

Request Info from Pigtails & Crewcuts Kids Salon

Part-Time Business Opportunities

Part-Time Business Opportunities are in vogue during an economic downturn. Our current economy, maybe more than ever, is no exception. Stay-at-home moms and even downsized or unemployed men and women are looking for supplemental income.

The good news is that a part-time franchise or business opportunity is flexible in many respects.

1. They are typically a home based business and, therefore, will likely not require financing. With the credit markets so tight that is a huge plus.

2. They will allow you to evolve your business over-time.

3. Low cost of entry with no limits on expansion.

4. Flexible hours. Work at your own pace.

Consider some of the part-time business and franchise opportunities available in our home based business opportunity category. Click on the link below to review.

Home Based Business Opportunities

Franchise Training Should Be A Top Priority

Franchise training should be one of your top priorities when choosing a franchise opportunity. Franchisors know that by providing their franchisees the proper, all encompassing, training gives them the best chance of franchisee success. You need to look for award winning training and ongoing franchise support.

PostNet Franchise is a perfect example of a company with the foundation for building a successful franchise unit by providing quality training. PostNet offers a comprehensive, three-step program that includes 10 days of classroom training, on-site training in your store up to and through your "soft opening"and a follow-up training visit approximately 60-90 days later.

Our ongoing support includes access to a team of business consultants who are trained to provide support in accounting and finance, marketing, equipment operation, business planning, goal setting and growth.

PostNet’s training doesn’t stop there! They also hold regional meetings and workshops throughout the country and host a variety of educational sessions at the annual convention. In addition, numerous resources can be found on the Franchisee Web at the University of PostNet.

Learning Express Toys Franchise offers training and support programs that ensure a seamless and success launch of your franchise business.

Each new franchise storeowner goes through an intensive training program at the corporate office and at their new store location. You’ll meet extensively with buyers, marketing and advertising, and operations staff to ensure a seamless and successful launch. Your regional owner will be with you every step of the way to answer of all your questions and guide you through every step in the process.

Pre-Opening Franchise Training

You will spend 8 days at our Corporate Training Center learning everything from operations and buying, to marketing and staff training. Three of those days will be at a store doing actual merchantising, gaining product knowledge, receiving product and hands-on selling.

Grand Opening Training

Your dedicated regional support person will be with you in your store for two to three weeks prior to your grand opening and one week following your grand opening to help you with every step along the way.

Ongoing Franchise Support

The corporate office and your dedicated regional support person will visit you frequently to make sure that you are operating successfully. You’ll also receive educational and informational materials from the Corporate and Regional offices on policies and procedures, proven marketing tips and more to help make your store as successful as it can be! In addition, you have 24-hour access to our company intranet site and one-on-one support from Corporate and Regional staff.

At CLIX Franchise Opportunity training is not a one-time program; it is an ongoing process. Each franchisee will be assigned a sales and operational training coach. These coaches will focus on the key operating elements of success for their franchisees and will be communicating with each franchisee on a regular basis, reviewing progress and providing support to the franchisee, this proactive approach to franchisee development is a tremendous support system.

CLIX also has an active internal intranet system which allows franchisees to receive support from staff online; as well as a large database of operational FAQ's, operating manuals, marketing resources, message boards, and sharing of best practices.

At CLIX we view training as our inventory, and put a lot of time and effort into supporting our franchisees. A well-trained staff will ensure that your customers receive the best possible product and service, and that you are maximizing your sales opportunities.

Described above are three top franchise training programs that will give you an idea of what you should expect from a franchisor. Before you buy a franchise make sure you are up close and personal with all aspects of your franchise traing and support.

Children's Franchises in Recessionary Times

Children's Franchises overcome some of the negatives in recessionary times, says William Bradley, CEO, of America's Best Franchises. "We're in a full blown recession when young adults with children have to prioritize their expenditures. You may not go to dinner as often or buy that dress or shoes you have your eyes on but you still may continue with the tutoring program your child is in or you still may throw little Billy a 10th birthday party."

When the economy struggles, a franchise business targeting children or teens seems to absorb the situation better than most businesses. Retailers offering high end clothing for adults, automobiles, luxury items like pianos or snow blowers or jewelry and anything travel related is struggling.

"Let's face it, parents want the very best for their children. Choices in this area have a long term impact on development, says Bradley. According to Bradley, supplemental education franchise businesses offering tutoring in math, art, reading, and science will not only survive but may thrive in a down economy.

Child entertainment franchises and child care/day care franchises are virtually recession proof.

Many children's franchises or business opportunities are home based opportunities requiring a low cost investment and therefore less risk. You may want to consider a Children's birthday party/private party franchise simply because they do so well. BounceU and Jump On In are well managed, top franchises in the child entertainment category. They won't fall into a low cost franchise category but they'll take a softer blow in recessionary times.

Go to Children's Franchise Opportunities

The Growth Coach Franchise Owner

The Growth Coach Franchise Owner Insights. Thank you…Thank you…Thank you! You were right when I talked with you over 18 months ago about becoming part of The Growth Coach Franchise System. I was looking for a business that would keep me active in the business world, one that I could help business owners and professionals achieve their business and personal goals and still achieve my business and personal goals… while working only 50 percent of my time. The Growth Coach was exactly what I was looking for and I am grateful to you and Gary Green for what this organization has done for me and my clients. The Growth Coach is a first class organization and I am very proud to be a part of such a positive, growing and caring group of people.

After owning my own business for over 25 years and selling it, I thought I would be satisfied with retiring at the age of 50. I was wrong! I needed something more, but I didn’t want to get back into the 70 to 80 hour work weeks. The Growth Coach has been a wonderful way for me to earn a substantial income on a part-time basis while helping people become more successful in their businesses and better balanced in their lives. What a wonderful way to go through life!

After I completed your extensive training class in December of 2006, I was confident, focused and fully prepared to start delivering our coaching process. I immediately scheduled January 25th and January 31st, 2007 to conduct my first two Quarter 1 Strategic Mindset Workshops. I worked on promoting these workshops just like I was taught in training and was fortunate enough to have a terrific turnout of referral sources and clients attend these two workshops. Furthermore, the outstanding evaluations from these clients further proved to me that there was a true and deep need for this type of coaching. Business owners and professionals are seeking help and this “business coaching process” is exactly what they need.

In the past 16 months, I have launched six additional Strategic Mindset Workshop tracks and have been very pleased with the number of clients attending each session. In particular, the number of paying clients attending my February 19, 2008 workshop far exceeded my expectations – I was thrilled to say the least.

This first year in business I have had many clients totally improve and change their life – becoming more successful in their business and more balanced in their personal life. I have clients that have taken their first vacations in 5 to 7 years because they were totally imprisoned by their business. They are now beginning to realize the importance of working “on” their business rather than working “in” their business.

Many clients after reading our “Becoming a Strategic Business Owner” book have told me that it was the best business book they have ever read. This book and our Quarterly Strategic Mindset Workshops have totally changed their lives for the better. One business owner told me that 2008 is the year he is taking charge of his business rather than the business taking charge of his life… and he is proving it through his actions in our Strategic Planner. The positive changes I have seen in clients are phenomenal.

My experience this past year has helped me see two things very clearly concerning The Growth Coach:

If you work your business plan (as we were taught in training), you will get clients willing to pay and attend the quarterly workshops.
Our powerful “Coaching Process” absolutely works!
The franchise investment fee, training and marketing expenses are insignificant compared to the huge potential this franchise offers me. My ability to earn a wonderful income even on a part-time basis is terrific, but the feeling of personal satisfaction in helping people achieve their business and personal goals in life has humbled me.

I cannot begin to tell you how it feels when clients and spouses of clients come up to me and thank me for helping them achieve their dreams in life. I thank them for the nice compliment and tell them they had the answers within themselves all along. My job is to help them become accountable to themselves through our on-going quarterly “coaching process” so they can discover what they need to do to help themselves… and then take action on their goals by following our Strategic Planner. It is a great feeling being so involved in helping others!

I feel very fortunate to be able to be part of The Growth Coach organization and very glad that I retired from retirement.

Thank you again,
David A. Miller
Owner, The Growth Coach
Southeastern Iowa

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