For Franchise HQ Staff ONLY!
Do you work at a franchise HQ?
Do you feel like it is impossible to make your franchisees happy with apparel?
We get this a lot but there is a simpler way to handle apparel for your HQ. By switching to a preorder method, limited edition mindset, and offering the ability to customize apparel to each location, you will simplify this process and find it easier to get owner buy in.
The problem: One issue we see with franchise HQ apparel offerings is purchasing in massive bulk. The franchise HQ guesses about which sizes to offer, places a giant order, and it sits in a fulfillment warehouse hoping that their franchise locations buy it. This idea has a huge potential to backfire. You have no idea if the design will be popular. You don't know which sizes to order. You're really just hoping it works out.
The solution: Switch to a preorder method. Explain to your locations that once per quarter, you're going to put out a preorder for apparel. Each location will get their own ordering link. During that time, the location will need to promote the apparel design. From there, we will keep a tally of everyone's order. Once the preorder period is over, we'll share the breakdown of sizes with you. Encourage a small amount of extras. We'll handle the fulfillment and deliver the order to each location. This will keep the process hands off, eliminate any warehousing fees, and funnel all your locations into being on the same calendar for the year.
The problem: You are offering too many items. You went to a famous cycling studio and were blown away by their retail area. They had 15 different designs, an unlimited amount of choice, and you felt that you should do the same! Bad idea. These places tend to be the worst offenders of being underwater with useless inventory that never sells. You want to have some inventory at each location but not too much. Choice paralysis is a real thing.
The solution: Keep the retail area clean and focused. Too much choice is overwhelming and you want to avoid inventory "sitting". Once it gets stale, it is hard to move. Consider offering less and a more organized presentation.
The problem: No buy in from owners. Owners push back and complain about the designs. This is ok. Not everyone is going to approve of the designs. Don't waste too much energy trying to make everyone happy. One thing we can all agree on: owners want apparel customized to each location. Just your HQ logo on a black shirt isn't going to cut it.
The solution: While it may require a little more coordination and not as good of a price point, make owners happy by offering customized apparel to their location. This will get more buy in and show you're dedicated to serving their specific location.
If you would like to hop on a call to learn more about what we do and how we can eliminate your apparel headaches once and for all, schedule a call with us today!