As the original cookie franchise in the United States, Great American Cookies is pleased to take the guesswork out of starting a cookie franchise. Cookie franchisees will be working with a product and brand that has over 30 years of recognition and experience in the industry when they invest in Great American Cookies. Great American Cookies makes each part of the franchising process simple. Operational support will also continue long after the franchise location opens its doors.
Submit Franchise Application for Starting a Cookie Franchise
The first step to opening a Great American Cookies franchise is to fill out an application. The application details many of the franchisee requirements and will help the franchisor to ascertain whether the franchisee has the qualifications necessary to open a cookie franchise. While the application is being reviewed, franchisees are advised to visit store locations to get a real world idea of the company culture and style. Great American Cookies locations are trendy and fun, with people and children from all walks of life visiting the store. Ideal franchisees will look forward to working in this environment.
Provide Cookie Credentials
Cookie franchisees have to show that they have what it takes to run a Great American Cookies store. This means providing proof of income and liquidity. Great American Cookies requires liquidity of $100,000 and net worth of $250,000. Cookie franchisees will also have to pass a background and credit check along with any spouses or business partners that wish to be a part of the cookie business.
Cookie Point Person
After meeting initial criteria, potential cookie franchisees will speak to a representative that will act as the cookie franchise point person. This person will answer questions, walk the potential franchisee through real estate and start up processes, and detail the fundamentals of operations. Franchisee candidates are encouraged to create a list of questions before speaking with their representative.
Learn about Cookie Life
Cookie franchisees will be given a Franchise Disclosure Document and put in contact with current franchisees to learn all there is to know about the cookie life. Franchisees must sign an Acknowledgment of Receipt of the FDD and return it to the franchisor. A Great American Cookies representative may be able to help potential franchisees receive in-store training, if necessary.
Discovery Day
After fulfilling most cookie franchising requirements, franchisees will be asked to schedule a day to meet with Great American Cookies management staff. At the meeting, franchise development topics will be discussed and management staff will advise the potential franchisee as needed. Franchisees may be able to sign the franchise agreement and pay initial franchise fees at Discovery Day, as well.
Making the Cookies
Getting a location ready for operations is the next step to living the cookie life. The Great American Cookies support team will help with choosing a location, preparing the location for business, and connecting with vendors. The support team will also help train staff and make sure that everything is ready to roll. Great American Cookies will be there for franchisees whenever there are questions or concerns through and after the Grand Opening.
Want more info on becoming a cookie franchisee? Contact us today.
