Hello, Tech
Computer companies take a byte out of franchising.
Recent figures from Dataquest Inc. show that half of all U.S.
households owned a PC in 1998, up from 27 percent in 1995. This
rise in computer ownership is helping fuel a new trend in
franchising: computer repair and education. Take a look at the
following franchises for a peek at where this trend is headed.
Aberdeen, South Dakota-based Computer Doctor Franchise Systems
Inc. has 15 stores and 55 more are in the works. Founded in 1992 by
Lonnie Helgerson and his brother, Phil, Computer Doctor began
franchising in 1996. With an estimated initial investment of
$117,900, it's an affordable hardware retail and repair
business for the right candidate. "We're not looking for
technicians," says Lonnie. "It's easier to train
someone to manage technicians than it is to train a technician to
be a good store owner."
Meanwhile, PC Professor, based in West Palm Beach, Florida, is
on the verge of taking its franchise system national. There are
currently two South Florida franchises that combine training
centers with full-service retailing, repair and support. Requiring
$100,000 in liquid assets and a $40,000 to $60,000 franchise fee,
PC Professor is a "one-stop center for computer users,"
says Rob Fellman, who with his brother, Steve, helps run the
company their brother, Howard, founded. At PC Professor, customers
can purchase a computer, take a basic or advanced training course
and have access to unlimited phone support.
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These insiders believe this trend in franchising will grow as
demand increases among consumers. "People need to know how to
use a computer," says Rob Fellman, "and if they
don't, they'll fall behind."
Contact Sources
Computer Doctor Franchise Systems Inc., (888) 297-2292,
http://www.cdfs.com
PC Professor, (888) PC-12345, http://www.pcprofessor.com