Learning Express - The destination for Unique and Educational Toys

Frequently Asked Questions

1.  
What kind of support do you provide?
Once you sign a Franchise Agreement you will have access to the Learning Express Intranet where you will be able to research sales and buying information, and learn to use the latest advertising and marketing tools (such as email marketing, Twitter, and Facebook). You will spend 8 days training at the Learning Express home office and have three weeks on-site training during the Grand Opening process. Support will continue with store visits, conference calls, and regional meetings.
2.  
What is the initial license fee and royalty payment?
The initial license fee is $35,000, which is paid at the time your Franchise Agreement is executed. The ongoing royalties are 5% of your gross sales.
3.  
What is the term of the license agreement?
The Franchise Agreement is for 10 years. It can be renewed in subsequent years in 10-year increments.
4.  
What is the total investment?
The investment level will vary depending on the store size, time of year, and build-out requirements. The range is between $192,000 and $375,000
5.  
What is the minimum net worth required to qualify to buy a franchise?
The minimum net worth requirement is $300,000. Of that, a minimum of $125,000 must be liquid.
6.  
Can I own multiple franchises?
Yes. Many of our successful franchisees own and operate multiple locations.
7.  
How do I find a location?
We will assist you in finding the right location with demographic analysis, which is based on our National Customer Profile and site visits.
8.  
What are the steps I must complete to own a Franchise?
Fill out LE application
Meet financial requirements.
Attend "Discovery Day" at the Learning Express office to meet our staff and learn more about the company and its philosophy for success.
Send in a $5000 deposit. This will be applied to the Franchise Fee.
Find a site with Learning Express assistance
Review and negotiate a lease
Sign Franchise Agreement and sign a lease
Start the Grand Opening Process
More details on these phases of development may be found in the Next Steps section.
9.  
Do I need to have experience in retail and toys?
No. Our storeowners come from all walks of life. Very few have had any retail management experience let alone knowledge of the toy industry. You just need that entrepreneurial spirit and a willingness to follow a proven model.
10.  
Why should I open a Learning Express instead of opening a store independently?
You will get over 20 years of experience and history with a branded national chain; guidance and direction with site selection, store design, lease negotiation, build-out, and fixturing; an established buying program that has pre-negotiated terms with vendors; the support of an experienced staff to help you through all phases of retail management and product knowledge; and a community of over 140 stores that talk to each other and learn from each other on a daily basis.

To locate any one of our more than 135 sister stores, click here.

To contact the Learning Express Home Office click here.