Here we answer some of the most common questions we are asked about our Caterpillar Music Franchise Opportunities

“What is a franchise?”

A franchise business is a tried-and-tested business model with a proven track record. Statistics show that a franchise business is more likely to succeed than a brand-new start-up business. As a franchisee, you work for yourself, but that does not mean you are by yourself. A supportive Head Office, established systems and operations manual, combined with the network of franchisees provide years of experience, support and guidance.

As part of a larger organisation, you can take advantage of the recognised brand, the national marketing campaigns, discounts offered by suppliers and partnerships with other organisations.

“What are the benefits of running a Caterpillar Music Franchise?”

The first Caterpillar Music classes began in 2001 and new franchisees came on board in 2003. It is a well-established family-friendly brand with a lot of experience.

You can take advantage of your own webpage on our state-of-the-art website, with integrated online booking system, social media channels and national marketing campaigns.

We are members of several not-for-profit organisations such as The Children’s Activities Association, EWIF (Encouraging Women into Franchising), The Quality Franchise Association and The Approved Franchise Association, all of which have advantages for the franchisees. We are also able to offer reduced prices to franchisees on merchandise and other supplies.

“What are the hours? I only want to do three mornings per week”

You only need to run a minimum of six sessions per week over 40 weeks of the year. You can choose the days and times you wish to work, set your own hours and take school holidays off if you wish.

Many of our franchisees choose to begin their sessions after the school-run and therefore save on childcare costs. Running your own business can be a very flexible position to be in and you need never miss a school nativity or a sports day again!

“Is there availability for a franchise in my area?”

Speak to us about your location. Our territories are very generous and there is usually scope to expand and run lots of classes in the various areas of your territory. Some franchisees take on additional Class Leaders to help them keep up with demand as their businesses grow.

If there is a neighbouring franchise, you may even be able to share some of the advertising costs.  Even if classes are already running in your area, it is still worth checking availability with us, as franchisees occasionally decide that it is time to move on and they may be considering selling their established business.

“How much will I earn?”

Like any new business that may be brand-new to the area, it takes time to build up a reputation with your customers, so that word-of-mouth spreads and they begin to recommend your classes.  With our marketing experience, training and guidance, we will help you to establish yourself.  It takes hard work, commitment and dedication particularly at the start, but we are with you every step of the way. There are no guarantees, but the more work you put in, the better the rewards.  A franchise business is often described as a “business in a box” – we will give you the necessary tools to establish yourself and be cheering you on from the side lines!

Some franchisees decide to work two or three days a week and that’s fine, whilst others work five days a week, do birthday parties on the weekends and take on additional staff members to help them to expand their growing business -it’s up to you! Additional opportunities include running nursery sessions, intergenerational sessions, entertaining at birthday parties and events and selling Caterpillar Music stock.

“Do I have the right skills? I have no business experience…”

 A passion for wanting to work with babies and young children is an absolute must!

You may be an experienced parent, you may have teaching experience or you may just have customer service experience. These are all valuable and transferable skills. Several of our franchisees had all of these but didn’t have any business experience at the start and that is fine.  You may have no experience actually working with children but perhaps having your own children might be enough. – we are here to train and guide you, cheer you along and to celebrate in your successes.

Our franchise package includes in-house business training, and class training, as well as software training and it does not all end there – we are here to offer continued support and guidance. You will have an Operations Manual and a full set of themed lesson plans, providing you with all the information that you will need to launch your successful business. There is also a private forum for franchisees to share tips and ideas with each other as well as a dedicated support helpline.

Further Information

If you are interested in finding out more, we run regular Franchise Discovery Sessions (currently online) and we are always happy to answer questions. Request a free franchise Information Pack and we will include details on how to attend our next Discovery session or book a Discovery call.