Discovery Ice Cream
 
The FRANCHISE OPPORTUNITY: FAQs

Question:
How do I learn more about the franchise opportunity?
Answer:
You can either email us or complete the Franchise Inquiry Form, at which time you will receive our Franchise Information “Packet.” The information contained in the Packet will answer many of your initial questions. Following your receipt of the packet, we will contact you to discuss the franchise business in more detail and answer additional questions you may have. Our goal is to provide you with the information you need to make an informed decision. We recognize that purchasing a franchise is a life-changing decision so we will do everything we can to make the process as stress-free as possible!
Question:
I’ve never looked at franchises before. What should I know about the process?
Answer:
Franchising has proven to be an extremely successful method of expansion. In essence, franchising permits individuals to benefit from a company’s success and avoid time and expense associated with learning about a business from the “ground up.” Franchising is regulated by the FTC and in certain cases, individual states. Franchise companies are required to comply with both Federal and State franchise laws and regulations related to the offering and sale of franchises.

You will find that all compliant franchise companies follow similar paths in introducing prospective franchisees to their franchise. For example, you must receive the franchisor’s FTC Disclosure Document at least 14 days prior to signing the Agreement or paying any money to the franchise company. The disclosure documents include the Disclosure, Franchise Agreement and additional Exhibits (such as the company’s financial statements and the Operation Manual Table of Contents). The Disclosure Document provides information about the franchise company and various contractual provisions contained in the franchise agreement. You will learn a great deal about the company and the franchise business through your careful review of the documents.
Question:
What qualifications are required to become a Discovery Ice Cream franchisee?
Answer:
We are looking for individuals who have a strong work-ethic, a willingness to follow our proven system, and who understand and appreciate the unique attributes of the Discovery Ice Cream system. Discovery Ice Cream has been successful due to its marketing efforts, operating methods and focus on providing an unexpectedly wonderful customer experience. We are confident in our ability to train individuals to successfully duplicate our system. Franchisees must also have the minimum financial qualifications necessary to fund the opening of the franchise and the first few months of operation. You may wish to view the required Initial Investment page.
Question:
What type of training will I receive?
Answer:
First, franchisees receive two weeks of comprehensive training at our Corporate Office. You will be trained in all aspects of the franchise business, from store build-out to inventory management to marketing and promotion, our training program leaves nothing to chance. Following Corporate training, our operation and support personnel spend time at your location during your Grand Opening period to assist with all aspects of your operation.
Question:
What type of support do you provide?
Answer:
Our success is measured by the success of our franchisees. Discovery Ice Cream is committed to providing quality support services that positively impact your Franchise. You can read more about our support services in the Training & Support section.
Question:
Do you recommend that I visit the Kingsport, TN store?
Answer:
Yes, we definitely encourage a visit to our store. This will enable you to meet us, view our operation and the Confidential Manual, and much more. When you come, we recommend that you spend a full day with us. Please contact us by phone or email if you are interested in scheduling a personal visit.
Question:
How long does it take to begin operating a franchise?
Answer:
We estimate that the typical length of time between signing the Franchise Agreement and opening a Franchise is 90 to 120 days. This includes the time necessary for you to complete your site build-out, hire and train staff, and complete our initial franchise training program.
Question:
What is the potential income for a Discovery Ice Cream franchise?
Answer:
We do not make specific earnings claims. Instead, we provide information to you that will permit you and your financial advisor to prepare a pro forma based on factors specific to your territory.
Question:
What is the size of a typical Discovery Ice Cream store?
Answer:
The average size of a Discovery Ice Cream location is 2,200 square feet and is normally located in a strip mall or free-standing location. There are a number of factors to consider relative to the site selection process. We assist you through the process to ensure that you select the proper location for your Franchise. Please contact us to discuss specifics related to the site selection process.
Question:
How large is a franchise territory and will I have an exclusive territory in which to operate?
Answer:
Your Exclusive Territory is a geographic area that we designate as your “Designated Marketing Area.” The territory includes a minimum population of 40,000. In determining your territory, we complete demographic research as part of our process of establishing exclusive territories to help ensure that the territory is conducive for Discovery Ice Cream.
Question:
Do you assist Franchisees with the process of hiring employees?
Answer:
We provide Franchisees with comprehensive information to assist them in recruiting, hiring, training, and managing employees. In addition, we provide you with an employee training program that ensures your staff are trained the Discovery way!
Question:
Can I be an absentee owner?
Answer:
Yes, provided that we approve your Manager and they successfully complete our initial training program. However, we encourage caution in putting your franchise business in the hands of an employee, who may elect to move on to a different opportunity at some point in the future.
Question:
How do I obtain a copy of your Disclosure Document?
Answer:
During your visit to the Corporate Office, we will review the franchise document with you and provide a copy to you for review with your attorney and/or accountant. It is important that you fully understand the legal documents and by reviewing them with you during your visit, your initial questions can be answered.
Question:
I live in a Franchise Registration State, how soon can I receive information about the franchise?
Answer:
There are 15 Registration States in the U.S., and Franchisors are required to register with each state before discussing the franchise with residents of those states. If you would like to know the status of our registration with your state, please contact us and we will respond with additional information. Once we receive approval from your state, we will provide additional information to you about our franchise.

The information provided on this website is not intended as an offer to sell, or the solicitation of an offer to buy, a franchise. It is for information purposes only. Currently, the following states in the U.S. regulate the offering and sale of franchises: California, Hawaii, Illinois, Indiana, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, New York, North Dakota, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Virginia, Washington, and Wisconsin. If you are a resident of, or desire a franchise in one of these states, we will not offer you a franchise until we have complied with applicable presale registration and disclosure requirements in your state, which includes providing you with the approved Uniform Franchise Offering Circular.

Allen Jones Allan Jones
CEO

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