Powder

I don't know if this has been talked about but I figured I would ask my personal questions about Planet Beach Franchising. Does anyone have any personal experience of owning a PB Franchise, is it worth it? Is it better to just start a new one? I am a newbie so forgive me.

TIA

missmojorising

The Federal Trade Commission requires franchisers to disclose 20 facts about their business in what is know as a Uniform Franchise Offering Circular. The disclosures include a list of past and present franchisees, any history of legal trouble, and franchisee nonrenewals, cancellations and transfers.

http://www.zarcolaw.com/CM/News/news20.asp

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www.simplytantexas.com

mr belvedere

Of course we forgive you, Powder! Although, being a "Newbie" and having questions is nothing to beg forgiveness for. In fact, you should be commended for having the guts to come on here and a ask a question that you obviously feel might be "dumb", or "common knowledge" for industry vets - so, kudos to you!

Never had the pleasure, nor the nightmare of being involved in the PB franchise. I know several franchisees that I had done some work for in the past - great people, all of them, and smart. Now watch this, I just said that there to throw off the "dissenters" as it were. hehe Despite everything I know about the tanning business and tanning franchises today, I still believe that a franchise gives the hopeful new salon owner a better chance at making it past the three year mark than someone who opens independently - regardless of their education or real world business experience. Is success in the industry possible without franchising? You bet your bippee it is! That's why there are franchises today! hehe

Let me try to tell you what it is you were hoping to hear now - PB is still in business as a franchise. Their model and equipment choice does not appeal to many people - "many people" being current salon owners that have experience; but I bet their franchisees would disagree. And they are probably right. Have there been PB's that went out of business? Sure. Why? Same reasons the independents don't make it. The only problem I have with tanning franchises, as a seasoned vet that has seen many sides of this business, and others, is that the franchisee starts you out with such a tremendous debt load. The off-season months in this industry are "lean" to say the least, and will only continue to get "leaner" (if you catch my drift) until market equilibrium is attained again. And if "the establishement" has their way, that day will never come.

Well Powder, I hope this didn't scare you off. Please feel free to ask all the questions you want. Some answers you'll like, others you won't, and some will just plain **** you off! hehe
-Belvedere

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"A dusty bible leads to a dirty life ..." -Synonymous

TanChica

Although starting a new salon from scratch is really hard you also have to concider that a franchise requires you to do things there way and yet it is your money and @$$ on the line. The records from my bank on percentages of failure rate were not that great with the franchises (particullary Planet Beach) compared to how many salons they have opened.
This has not stopped them from flooding the market in my state!!!! UHHH...

Steve Underhill

There are Tanning Consultants that can provide everything a franchise offers without start-up and monthly franchise fees. You don;t give up the freedom that comes with being an independent operator and in every case net income will be greater because you are not giving your profits away. While you are investigating franchises, take the time to speak to a consultant.

nicole4tanning

I had a lady come in last week that owned a Planet Beach for 3 years and HATED it. I won't go into details, but she sold the place a few months ago and now tans here, even though her old salon isn't far away. Just goes to show even the owners don't like the equipment choice.