Once Upon A Child franchisees are the proud owners and operators of brightly colored stores that buy and sell gently used children's clothing, toys, furniture, and equipment. Think of them as neighborhood treasure troves where families can score amazing deals on barely-used items, from name-brand outfits to like-new cribs, all while decluttering their own homes and putting some extra cash in their pockets. As franchisees, they're not just running a business; they're becoming part of a supportive community built on sustainability, affordability, and giving parents a helping hand.
Gently Used Treasures for Growing Tots: Once Upon A Child is a leading North American franchise specializing in buying and selling gently used children's apparel, toys, furniture, and equipment. Founded in 1984, the brand boasts over 400 locations across the United States and Canada, solidifying its position as the go-to destination for families seeking quality secondhand goods at affordable prices.Stepping into a Once Upon A Child store is like entering a wonderland of pre-loved treasures. Brightly colored racks overflow with neatly organized clothing in all sizes, from newborn onesies to tween fashion finds. Shelves brim with engaging toys, from cuddly plushies to educational puzzles, while sturdy cribs and high chairs line the walls, ready to embark on their next playtime adventure. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, with friendly staff always on hand to help parents find the perfect outfit or toy for their little ones.Sustainable Savings and Community Hub: Beyond offering gently used items at a fraction of their original cost, Once Upon A Child champions sustainability by giving pre-loved items a second life. This not only reduces landfill waste but also extends the lifespan of valuable resources. Additionally, the franchise fosters a strong sense of community by providing a platform for families to declutter their homes and share gently used items with others. This creates a vibrant exchange of not just goods but also parenting tips, recommendations, and friendly connections.Whether you're a budget-conscious parent seeking adorable outfits for your growing bundle of joy or an eco-conscious family looking for ways to minimize your environmental impact, Once Upon A Child offers a welcoming space filled with endless possibilities. So, next time you're shopping for your little ones, be sure to pop into your local Once Upon A Child store and discover the magic of gently used treasures.
Once Upon A Child Franchisee Support and Training:Once Upon A Child, owned by Winmark Corporation, offers extensive support and training to its franchisees to ensure their success. Here's an outline of what they provide:Pre-Opening:Discovery Day: At Winmark's headquarters in Minneapolis, you'll meet the team, learn about the brand, and understand the training program.Franchisee Visits: Connect with existing Once Upon A Child owners to gain insights and ask questions.Financing Assistance: Winmark helps you secure financing and navigate the process.Site Selection and Construction: They assist in finding the ideal location and manage construction with approved vendors.Business Planning: Develop a comprehensive plan with Winmark's guidance, including market research, financial projections, and marketing strategies.Training:New Franchisee Orientation Training (NFOT): A 5-day intensive program at Winmark's training center covering:Business operations and managementCustomer service and sales techniquesMerchandising and inventory controlMarketing and advertising strategiesTechnology and Point-of-Sale systemsProduct buying and pricingSafety and recall proceduresLegal and compliance requirementsOn-Site Training: After NFOT, a Winmark field operations representative visits your store for additional training and support.Ongoing Training: Winmark provides continuous training through webinars, conferences, and regional meetings. They also offer access to online resources and training materials.Support:Marketing and Advertising: Winmark provides national and regional marketing campaigns, as well as local store marketing materials and templates.Operations Support: You'll have access to a dedicated field operations representative for ongoing support and guidance.Technology Support: Winmark provides POS system support and other technology assistance.Purchasing Power: Benefit from Winmark's bulk purchasing discounts and relationships with vendors.Community Relations: Winmark helps you build relationships with local businesses and organizations.Additional Resources:Winmark intranet: Provides access to operational manuals, marketing materials, and other resources.Franchise Owners' Association: Connect with other franchisees for peer support and networking.Overall, Once Upon A Child offers a comprehensive support and training program to help its franchisees open and operate successful stores. Their commitment to ongoing support ensures that you have the resources and guidance you need to thrive in the children's resale market.
