Supper Thyme USA

Ready To Become Part of Supper Thyme?

Commonly asked questions and answers about the Supper Thyme USA franchise.

Q.	What type of franchise is available?
A.	SUPPER THYME USA FRANCHISE SERVICES, LLC offers you the opportunity to operate a business, providing supplies, equipment, ingredients and instructions to prepare, on the premises, ready-to-cook entrees to take home, freeze, and use as needed for family meals.

Q.	How much does the franchise cost?
A.	The estimated initial investment to establish a SUPPER THYME USA franchise ranges from $140,000 to $225,000, including an initial franchise fee of $35,000.

Q.	How much is the fee for continuing support services?
A.	The continuing services, or “royalty,” fee is 6% of your gross sales, payable weekly. This fee entitles you to use the SUPPER THYME USA trade name and the associated service marks, access to operational systems, marketing assistance, ongoing business development, consulting and other benefits that come with being a part of the SUPPER THYME USA franchise system.

Q.	Will I have an exclusive territory?
A.	Absolutely. SUPPER THYME USA FRANCHISE SERVICES, LLC grants an exclusive territory known as a “Protected Territory,” which is outlined on a map for you. Provided you are in compliance with the provisions of the Franchise Agreement, we will not establish nor license another SUPPER THYME USA franchise within your Protected Territory.

Q.	What about advertising?
A.	The SUPPER THYME USA name and reputation is an important part of your business. You will spend a minimum of $3,000 on grand opening marketing during the first three months of operation. We will provide you with guidelines for your grand opening marketing. Also, you will spend a minimum of $1,500, or 2%, of your monthly gross sales (whichever is greater) on local marketing. In addition, once we establish a Marketing Fund, you will be expected to make Marketing Fund contributions of up to 1% of your weekly gross sales.

Q.	much training is provided in the SUPPER THYME USA system?
A.	You will participate in an initial training course of approximately 30-40 hours over a 1-week period. The initial program will focus on all aspects of the SUPPER THYME USA system and is comprised of classroom and on-the-job training.

Q.	What form of ongoing support will I receive?
A.	Periodically, scheduled visits will be conducted throughout the course of the franchise term, which are designed to provide operational assistance and guidance in various aspects of your SUPPER THYME USA franchise. You will also receive the SUPPER THYME USA confidential Operations Manual which contains specifications, standards, operating procedures, and suggestions to aid you in the operation of your SUPPER THYME USA franchise.

Q.	What is the term of the SUPPER THYME USA Franchise Agreement?
A.	The initial term of the Franchise Agreement is five years from the date the Franchise Agreement is signed. The franchise is renewable for three additional successive terms of five years each, provided you have complied with the provisions of the Franchise Agreement.

Q.	There seems to be a lot of meal preparation franchises available. What makes Supper Thyme different from the others?
A.	Many things, but one of the major differences is we are a “franchisee committed” company versus a “franchise sales oriented” company. You will see we take very seriously our “partnership” with our Franchisees and are committed to their success.

Q.	I notice in your mission statement you say you are committed to franchisee success. In what ways do you do this?
A.	We are with you step by step from day one and as long as you are part of the Supper Thyme Family. The first step is to visit your territory for potential locations. We get to know you and your market. We will be interactive with you in determining the best location to maximize your territory.

Q.	What will be my territory and is it protected?
A.	Your territory will definitely be protected. There are many local factors that should be considered in determining your specific territory boundaries. Again, we will work with you to develop your territory to maximize your business.

Q.	You don’t have as many locations as some other franchisors. Why?
A.	There is strength in numbers, it’s true, but not when it affects your profitability. Talk to any franchisee in any type of business…they will tell you one of their big concerns is the franchisor over-saturating a market. Especially when it was their hard work that developed the market in the first place. There will always be competition but we do not want to be our own competition. In other words we are committed to each of our franchisee’s success and profitability. WE WILL NOT over franchise a market.

Q.	Someone told me about a Supper Thyme “Showcase” franchise. What is that?
A.	A “showcase” location is usually the first location in any market. There are specific advantages and commitments that a “showcase” franchise must adhere to.

Q.	How many franchises can I own?
A.	This depends on you. We do not want to limit our franchisees growth and earning potential. After your first location is running profitably we will be glad to discuss your expansion.

Q.	Will I get a better price on my 2nd location?
A.	We do have a plan that allows for additional locations at a reduced cost.

Q.	I am in a small market… can I still buy a franchise?
A.	Every market is different. We will review your market with you. WE WILL NOT sell a franchise if we have concerns as to its potential and profitability.

Q.	I found another franchisor that is less expensive than you? Will you match their price?
A.	No. They know what their franchises are worth. (We would also advise you to check their fine print.)

Q.	How do I know you are sincere regarding your concern and dedication to your franchisee’s success?
A.	Upon completion of your franchise application, we will supply you with a list of all our franchisees, their phone numbers. We encourage you to talk candidly to our franchisees.

Q.	Who develops your meals?
A.	Creating great meals is just the beginning. Each recipe is tested, tested again and then tested some more. Many things change when you are freezing meals and then defrosting and cooking. We feel many food preparation franchisors take too many shortcuts in developing recipes. It makes a big difference. Remember, it all boils down to how the food tastes when your customer serves it.

Q.	What is my next step?
A.	Simply complete the Confidential Franchise Evaluation form and return it to us. If, after reviewing your qualifications, we feel you have the potential to join the SUPPER THYME USA franchise system, you will be invited to meet with us in person. If you have any questions, in the meantime, please feel free to call us at (402) 933-4521, and ask for a franchise representative. We look forward to speaking with you.