Thinking about starting your own business is both exciting and daunting, especially when the economy seems uncertain. But, if you have the option to ease into it, it could be a sound decision for your future.
Franchises such as Snap-on Tools are creating opportunities that assist qualified candidates get their business up and rolling. Through its Gateway Program, Snap-on allows approved candidates the opportunity to become a franchisee with an initial out-of-pocket expense of $16,688 to $27,674, which includes enough working capital to get you through the start up period. (90 days)
“Snap-on is known as a franchise industry pioneer with quality service and products,” says Mike Doweidt, director of Snap-on Franchising. “We want to make owning a Snap-on franchise a viable option for anyone who has a passion for this business, and it’s through innovative options such as The Gateway Program that we make it possible.
“We’ve built our reputation on being the best, and our franchise options are the same. Snap-on also offers in-house credit for prospective franchisees, an important offering when banks are tightening up on loans for new businesses.”
Doweidt says Snap-on’s Gateway Program has opened the door for successful franchisees such as Tim Lowder of Corpus Christi, Texas. Lowder had previous careers as a professional athlete and with the military. Lowder built up equity in his Snap-on business over two years before making the full investment, and he now owns his mobile store.
This graduated buy-in process also worked for Noel Vega, another Corpus Christi franchisee. Vega also served in the military and, as a civilian, a Junior College instructor, and says, “I took a look at the tool companies and decided I wanted to be on a winning team with someone who will back you up. And, Snap-on was the team to do that.”
Vega has some notes on the current economic conditions, saying his tool business is thriving…even having customers “chasing him down the road” if he missed a stop at their place of business. One of the reasons he sites is the smaller garages doing more auto repair work.
No matter the economic climate, Doweidt shares that Snap-on has been around through all the ups and downs including The Great Depression. He says it’s that kind of staying power and flexibility to respond to customers and franchisees that make Snap-on a business ownership option that’s right for the times.
For additional information about a Snap-on Franchise, visit www.snaponfranchise.com.