5 Tips for Saving Money on Franchise Awnings
January 29, 2019
Many franchises require that all franchise locations invest in awnings to keep the appearance of buildings consistent. This is necessary to meet the franchise requirements to open, so franchisees must be sure to follow codes and have the work performed quickly. Since franchise owners are usually on a budget, any cost savings can be very helpful. The following tips may help franchisees to save money, both during installation and down the road.
1. Purchase Pre-Assembled Awnings
Off-the-shelf awnings are often more inexpensive than custom-made awnings. These will usually look consistent, which can be helpful in reinforcing the brand if the color and style is right. However, it may be difficult to find awnings that match the exact specifications required. Slight variations may end up costing franchisees more in the long run if awnings need to be replaced to meet standards, so it is highly recommended that franchisees check with the franchisor before having ready-made awnings installed.
2. Work with a Well-Established Awning Company from the Start
A company that has been established in the area for a while may have a better idea of what awning types and materials will be best, with consideration to regular weather conditions and awning wear. An awning company will be able to recommend the sturdiest, longest lasting awning materials. Awning professionals will also be able to install all needed awnings quickly. There is generally some sort of guarantee on awning installation and quality, so franchisees may save money on repairs and replacements in the future.
A company that has been established in the area for a while may have a better idea of what awning types and materials will be best, with consideration to regular weather conditions and awning wear. An awning company will be able to recommend the sturdiest, longest lasting awning materials. Awning professionals will also be able to install all needed awnings quickly. There is generally some sort of guarantee on awning installation and quality, so franchisees may save money on repairs and replacements in the future.
3. Distinguish Requirements from Extras
When selecting awnings for a new franchise location, franchisees often look to existing locations. This can be deceiving, as other franchisees may have opted for additional “extras” in design, style, or size. Franchisees may save money by determining what is required versus what is not. Frills can always be added at a later date, after the major expenses that are required to open have been taken care of.
When selecting awnings for a new franchise location, franchisees often look to existing locations. This can be deceiving, as other franchisees may have opted for additional “extras” in design, style, or size. Franchisees may save money by determining what is required versus what is not. Frills can always be added at a later date, after the major expenses that are required to open have been taken care of.
4. Opt for Quality
While it may be tempting for new franchisees to skimp on awning quality and opt for the most inexpensive materials, this can be a mistake. Better quality awnings typically stand up to conditions better and last longer. Franchisees should speak to professionals and calculate the costs of investing in a high quality awning versus purchasing a lower quality awning and replacing the materials every few years. The effect of a worn awning on customers’ perception of the business should also be considered, as this may affect sales.
While it may be tempting for new franchisees to skimp on awning quality and opt for the most inexpensive materials, this can be a mistake. Better quality awnings typically stand up to conditions better and last longer. Franchisees should speak to professionals and calculate the costs of investing in a high quality awning versus purchasing a lower quality awning and replacing the materials every few years. The effect of a worn awning on customers’ perception of the business should also be considered, as this may affect sales.
5. Consider Utility Savings
Well placed awnings will help franchisees save money on utility costs. When reviewing specifications for franchise awnings, franchisees may wish to consider purchasing larger awnings or awnings that are made with light-blocker materials, as these may help to keep energy costs low. The money saved on utilities every month may be greater than the initial cost to purchase the larger or higher quality awning.
Well placed awnings will help franchisees save money on utility costs. When reviewing specifications for franchise awnings, franchisees may wish to consider purchasing larger awnings or awnings that are made with light-blocker materials, as these may help to keep energy costs low. The money saved on utilities every month may be greater than the initial cost to purchase the larger or higher quality awning.
