Made in the Shade Blinds and More

The franchise fee of $72,500 is substantially higher than the typical range of $25,000-$40,000 for retail franchises. What specific training, equipment, inventory, or support justifies this premium pricing?

The termination rate of 5.1% is more than double the typical range for this category. What are the primary reasons franchisees have been terminated, and what specific contract violations trigger termination?

Transfer activity dropped to zero in 2024 after 5 transfers in 2023. Why has the secondary market for resale essentially ceased, and what does this indicate about franchisee satisfaction or unit value?

The non-compete radius of 50 miles is 2.5 to 5 times broader than typical for retail franchises. How is this enforced geographically, and what specific restrictions apply if a franchisee exits?

With no royalty fees and no advertising fund, how are brand support, marketing campaigns, and system-wide promotional activities funded?

The transfer fee of $25,000 is 25-200% higher than typical. Does this fee apply to all transfers, and are there circumstances where it may be waived or reduced?

You report 0% transfer rate but show 5 transfers in 2023 and 0 in 2024. Can you clarify the methodology for calculating transfer rate and explain the sharp decline in 2024?

Litigation data shows zero cases over 3 years. However, given the higher termination rates, what disputes or grievances have been resolved outside formal litigation?

The binding arbitration clause requires all disputes to be resolved in San Antonio, Texas, with class action and jury trials waived. What has been the franchisor's historical use of arbitration, and what are typical costs for franchisees to pursue claims?

Median gross sales are $439,036 but average gross sales are $624,352 — a significant gap. What is the distribution of unit performance, and what percentage of units fall below the median?

Can you provide detailed profitability data (Item 19 Exhibit A or equivalent) showing net operating income after all expenses, including the $150 technology fee, local marketing, and staffing?

The operational control clause limits purchases to approved suppliers only. Who sets approved supplier prices, and has the franchisor changed pricing requirements or the approved products list in the past 3 years?

Support & Training scores 79, below the typical range of 84.0-99.0. What specific training and ongoing support are provided, and how many hours of training occur before and after launch?

With 6 units closed and 6 terminated in 2024, can you provide a timeline of these exits and clarify which were company-initiated versus franchisee-requested departures?

Personal guarantees are required with unlimited scope. In what circumstances might the franchisor pursue claims against the franchisee's personal assets, and have such claims been made historically?

The renewal fee is listed as $6,000. If a franchisee wishes to renew for a second 10-year term, what other obligations or franchise agreement changes might be required?

Unit growth of 9.35% in one year is well above typical range. Is this growth being driven by new franchisee recruitment, re-franchising of company-operated units, or acquisitions of other brands?

You have exclusive territory protection, but can the franchisor operate company-owned units or online sales channels within or overlapping franchisee territories?

What is the average length of time a franchisee operates before closure or termination, and what is the range (minimum to maximum)?

Given the $72,500 franchise fee and $150 annual technology fee with no royalty structure, what is the total estimated investment required (including working capital) to launch a unit, and what is the franchisor's estimate of payback period?