#SAFranchiseFriday featuring Minuteman Press

BACKGROUND
The Minuteman Press concept was founded by Roy Titus who, in researching the industry, realised not only the vast magnitude and variety of the industry, but also its tremendous untapped potential. In the course of his research he identified a need for a printing and graphics centre that could serve all types of businesses.

The first Minuteman Press centre opened in New York in 1973 and franchising of the concept began in 1975. Today, with over 920 locations across the Unites States, Australia, Canada, South Africa and the United Kingdom, Minuteman Press is the largest printing franchise in the world.

THE CONCEPT
Since opening their first franchise, the Minuteman Press business model has seen many changes. With the advances in digital technology, products are produced faster and cheaper than ever before while still delivering the quality and service customers have come to expect.

Their extensive range of services includes printing, copying, document reproduction and graphic design services as well as binding, embossing, foil stamping and saddle stitching. Their product offering includes envelopes, flyers, invitations, labels, manuals, menus, price lists and presentation folders to name but a few.

All businesses, large and small, use printed matter in their daily operations and are therefore considered potential customers. Producing products that are handed out, mailed, written on and eventually thrown away only to be reordered and replaced regularly, means there is a tremendous amount of repeat business in this segment of the industry.

Minuteman Press assesses the suitability of potential locations by taking into account the population, surrounding businesses and business centres.

In a typical Minuteman Press outlet the franchisee will be supported by a press operator, a counter and graphics employee and additional staff may be appointed if warranted by the walk-in business.

FRANCHISOR SUPPORT
The franchisor provides pre- and post-opening assistance and support including technical and marketing support and recruitment assistance.

Franchisees attend a 2-week training programme at the corporate headquarters training facility in New York. The comprehensive curriculum is designed to benefit the majority of Minuteman Press franchisees who have no prior industry experience or are new to business ownership.

MMP Supply Company is the dedicated supplier to Minuteman Press franchisees. While purchasing from MMP Supply Company is not prescribed, the combined purchasing power of the group enables franchisees to benefit from the discounted prices offered.

FRANCHISEE PROFILE
The ideal Minuteman Press franchisee is an outgoing, hardworking and self-motivated individual who believes in service excellence and is prepared to adhere to a prescribed business system. Prior industry or business management experience is not required.

SNAPSHOT

History
Founder: Roy Titus
Year founded: 1974
Area of origin: United States of America
CEO: Robert Titus

Network
1st SA franchise opened: 1996
Number of SA outlets: 46

Financials
* Amounts quoted are VAT exclusive
Average set-up cost: R950 000 to R1,3 million
Initial joining fee: 45 500 USD
Average monthly turnover: R325 000
Achievable gross margins: 65% of 70%

Franchise agreement
Management fee: 6% of turnover
Marketing fee: None
Agreement term: 35 Years
Renewal term: On request

WANT TO KNOW MORE?
Contact: Frik van Niekerk on +27 11 444 7884 or fvanniekerk@mpihq.com
www.minutemanpress.com