Why Independent Salon Owner Made the Switch to Franchisee

Splash and Dash is a convenient, unlimited dog wash and brush service that saves you time, reduces stress and decreases your monthly expense with the dog groomers.

We recently spoke with Jaime Meyer, Owner of a Splash and Dash franchise in Coppell, Tex. Meyer was an independent salon owner prior to converting his salon to a Splash and Dash. We learned why Meyer made the switch, what he would do differently if he had the chance to do it over and what advice he has for potential franchisees.


How long have you owned a Splash and Dash franchise?

I started my salon in 2007, I converted in 2014.

What were you doing before becoming a franchise owner?

I was an independent salon owner since 2007. Prior to that, I was an executive assistant.

Why did you choose your franchise?

I felt as an independent I wouldn’t be able to keep up the technology expected from my customers. I also wanted a way to leverage my business and expand without being so hands-on in the day-to-day operations.

What were some of the challenges you faced when starting your franchise?

It was a challenge to convert employees from the old way of doing things to the new ways. In the end, about half of my previous employees were replaced because they could not or would not adapt to be more productive.

Where did you research or get advice about starting a franchise?

I used the website FranchiseConduit.com and used the brokers at franchise marketing systems.

What does a typical day look like for you?

I work from home about five hours a week on this business. I like to spend two half days in the store on our busiest days to keep on top of the business performance and needs. I check in with my managers 3-5 times most days, unless I am unavailable.

What is your secret to success?

Hiring smart people and giving them the opportunity to take on responsibility when they ask for it.

What would you do differently if you had to do it all over?

I would have discounted my services more in the beginning of the conversion to keep clients from being too afraid of change, and I would have started as a franchise from day one.

Where do you see your business in five years?

I see our business open more hours a week, going from 45 hours to 75. I expect our memberships to double in that time.

What is one trend that really excites you?

Allowing the customers to interact with the business on their own time. Reaching them via social media, emails and texts. Allowing them to book appointments online when they want to. All of those ideas keep my customers engaged, even when the business is closed.

Do you (or did you ever) have a mentor?

Growing up both of my parents were business owners, in multiple industries. They taught me the importance of integrity in business. I spent two years working directly under Mr. Jorge Bustamante in my early twenties. He was my last employer and working for him really gave me the confidence that I had what it takes to work for myself.

What advice do you have for others looking to own a franchise?

I have owned independent businesses as well as this franchise. Most people seem to think that being an independent will save them the “fees” attached to franchises. This is not true at all. Being an independent you waste so much of your time and money “testing” ideas, developing materials, analyzing operations. It has proved to be much better for me in the past year with a franchise even with the fees associated with it.

Would you recommend others be franchisees? Why?

Absolutely. Being part of a franchise company takes all the guesswork out of the day-to-day and it gives you a clear path to profitability.

Where can people get more information on Splash and Dash franchise opportunities?

Visit the website here.

Where can people find Splash and Dash on social media?

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