#SAFranchise Friday featuring Wildman Hunting & Outdoor

BACKGROUND
The Wildman Hunting & Outdoor franchise, the first of its kind in South Africa, was launched in November 2010. The first franchise was established in Graaff-Reinet, quickly followed by more franchises opening in various provinces and today there are no less than 14 outlets.

Concept founder, Frik du Plooy, has been a prominent figure in the firearm industry for over 31 years. From a small-town Firearm Dealer and Gunsmith business, under his direction and with the assistance of his team who collectively has some 300 years’ experience in the field, Wildman Hunting & Outdoor has grown into one of the largest privately-owned firearm retailing ventures.

The company's success can be attributed to Frik’s insight into the need to diversify their product range, thereby ensuring repeat business from existing clients and creating traction for potential new clients.

THE CONCEPT
While hunting is their primary focus, they also cater for customers interested in target-, wing- and tactical shooting. In addition to the weapons training offered at most Wildman outlets where they have SABS approved shooting ranges, they also aim to employ a registered armourer at each outlet. Wildman also offers customers a WILDMAN Loyalty Card that can be used at a variety of retailers and is linked to the My Bonus concept.

Ostensibly designed with men in mind, stores are also family-friendly with an array of products that offers something for everyone — from rifles, shotguns and handguns to camouflage clothing, safes, paintball guns, air guns, gadgets and more. With so muchto choose from, Wildman has acquired a customer base that reaches beyond our borders into neighbouring countries.

 Wildman franchises are available in two models. The Standard Model franchise requiring 300 to 700sqm is well-suited to large towns and cities, while the Express Model franchise requiring only 200sqm is appropriate for small country towns.

FRANCHISOR SUPPORT
Wildman’s experienced head office team has established the necessary infrastructures to ensure they are able to successfully support their franchisees. Outlets use Ferox software which, in addition to debtor and creditor management, also accommodates the management and control of weapons.

The head office marketing team is responsible for national marketing which covers everything from adverts to expos and festivals. In addition, the company’s in-house radio station is used to promote their products and services as well as promotional offers.

At store level the marketing department oversees the shopfitting of new stores, while providing franchisees with everything they require to capture the market in their area, including assisting them with social media marketing strategies.

FRANCHISEE PROFILE
One of the most important characteristics of a Wildman franchisee is a passion for the industry.
 
SNAPSHOT
HISTORY
Founder: Frik du Plooy
Year founded: 2010
Area of origin: Ermelo, Mpumalanga
CEO: Frik du Plooy
 
NETWORK
1st SA franchise opened: 2011
Number of SA outlets: 14
 
FRANCHISE AGREEMENT
Management fee: 2.5% of turnover
Marketing fee: 0.5% of turnover
Agreement term: 10 Years
Renewal term: 10 Years
 
FINANCIALS
* Amounts quoted are VAT exclusive
Establishment cost: From R3 million
Franchise joining fee: Included in establishment cost
Working capital required: Available on application
TOTAL average set-up cost: From R3 million for 200sqm store
Average monthly turnover: Available on application
Achievable gross margins: Available on application
 
WANT TO KNOW MORE?
Contact Hennie Esterhuysen on +27 17 819 3415 or email wildman@jjwapens.co.za
www.wildmanhuntingandoutdoor.com