Made in the Shade Blinds and More Franchise Costs, Fees & Owner Salary (2023)

Made in the Shade Blinds & More, founded by Cathy Morse in January 2004, represents a unique entrepreneurial opportunity in the home interiors industry. With a career spanning over 25 years in this field, Morse's vision was to establish a brand that is synonymous with quality, service, and value. Made in the Shade Blinds & More is headquartered in San Antonio, Texas.

The company's business model revolves around providing a convenient, shop-at-home service for custom window fashions, including blinds, shades, shutters, and draperies, catering to the individual needs and preferences of each customer. Made in the Shade has grown significantly since its inception, expanding its reach across the United States and Canada, and becoming a leader in the custom window coverings industry​​​​.

The franchising journey for Made in the Shade began in 2004, shortly after the company's launch. This move aimed to empower entrepreneurs across North America to tap into the lucrative window coverings market. The franchise offers a compelling business model that includes low overhead costs, as it's a home-based business with no need for an expensive storefront or inventory.

What sets Made in the Shade apart in the franchising world is its commitment to the success of its franchisees. Franchisees are not required to have prior experience in decorating, design, or sales, as Made in the Shade equips them with all the necessary tools and knowledge to become experts in the field. This dedication to franchisee development and customer satisfaction has contributed to Made in the Shade's reputation as a premier choice for entrepreneurs looking to invest in the home furnishings sector​​​​.

Initial Franchise Fee

The franchisee shall pay Franchisor an initial franchise fee of $59,000 upon execution of the Agreement.

Renewal Fee

With the written notice to renew, Franchisee shall pay to Franchisor a renewal fee in an amount equal to $2,500.

Website Fee

Franchisee shall pay to Franchisor, its affiliate, or its third-party designee: (i) an initial website fee in an amount equal to $99 - $249.

Software Fee

For a Software Fee up to $199 per month, any Software Programs that Franchisor specifies for use in the System.

Transfer Fee

You agree to pay this fee to transfer the Franchised Business, which is $10,000 with the transfer application.

Training Fee

The fee for initial training for up to two attendees is included in the initial franchise fee. Any additional trainees will incur a fee of $750 per additional attendee. Moreover, a transferee must pay $750 per person to attend initial training.

The franchisor provides a comprehensive training program for franchisees, which includes:

1. Initial Management Training: This training is mandatory for the Franchisee's Operating Principal and one additional trainee, provided at no additional charge. This program covers the essential aspects of running the franchise, including product knowledge, sales techniques, and operational procedures.
2. Additional Trainees: Any additional attendees beyond the Operating Principal and one trainee will incur a fee of $750 per additional attendee. The franchisor also reserves the right to charge a reasonable fee for training successor or replacement personnel and for any additional training programs.
3. On-Site Remedial Training: Upon request by the Franchisee or if deemed necessary by the Franchisor, on-site remedial training will be provided. This training is subject to the availability of the Franchisor's personnel and may require the Franchisee to pay a per diem fee for the training, along with any travel, lodging, and meal expenses for the Franchisor's representatives.
4. Annual Conference: The Franchisor may hold an Annual Conference, which can serve as an additional training and networking opportunity for Franchisees. Attendance details and any associated fees would be communicated by the Franchisor.
5. Training Location and Instructors: Currently, the initial training is conducted in San Antonio, Texas, by experienced instructors with extensive backgrounds in the field. Franchisees are responsible for all costs associated with attending the initial training, including travel, lodging, meals, and wages.

The franchisor does offer territory protection to franchisees under certain conditions. If the franchisee is in compliance with the Franchise Agreement and all other agreements between them or their affiliates and the franchisor or its affiliates, they will receive an exclusive territory. This means that the franchisor and its affiliates will not establish or authorize anyone except the franchisee to establish a MITS Business within this territory.

The territory is delineated by specific geographic boundaries, which may include municipal or county boundaries, postal zip codes, or a specified trade area within a municipality or county. The size of the territory generally comprises approximately 150,000 people, typically corresponding to U.S. Postal Service zip codes, but the actual size may vary based on the availability of contiguous markets, long-range plans, financial and operational resources, and market conditions.

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The franchisor requires franchisees to be actively involved in the day-to-day operations of their franchises. Specifically, franchisees must designate an individual as their "Operating Principal," who is responsible for the direct supervision and management of the franchise's daily activities. This Operating Principal must:

• Maintain a direct or indirect ownership interest of not less than ten percent (10%) in the franchise.
• Meet the franchisor's qualifications and adhere to the standards and specifications set forth in the Franchise Agreement, the Manuals, or other written directives issued by the franchisor.
• Use their best efforts to actively sell the products and promote the business, ensuring compliance with the franchisor's training requirements and other standards.
• Be individually, jointly, and severally bound by all obligations under the Franchise Agreement, including those of the Operating Principal and a Principal.