Looking Good A Canadian cosmetics franchise expands to the United States.
Opinions expressed by BIZ Experiences contributors are their own.
A good face can charm a photographer, win a cardgame . . . or capture the attention of thebusiness world. Take a look at FACES Inc., the Toronto-based retailcosmetics franchise and distribution system that has recentlyreceived a makeover.
Behind the upgrade of the 25-year-old company is new managerFlagship Capital Partners Inc., a merchant banking company whichhas re-branded and repositioned FACES. "We wanted a systemthat's exportable, universal and recession-proof, and FACES metall those criteria," says Flagship and FACES chair andpresident Grant D. Roebuck. Improvements include store design andpackaging changes, a four-week certificate training program, and adetailed customer database allowing better franchisee/customerrelationships.
Because the FACES concept consists of stand-alone boutiquesselling only FACES brand cosmetics in regional malls, productsdon't vie for shelf or makeup counter space. Offering qualitymakeup, skin-care and bath products at affordable prices, FACEScurrently has more than 80 shops in Canada, China, Mexico, theMiddle East and the Philippines. The company's new masterfranchise and franchise system expects the international system(including the United States) to grow to at least 2,500 boutiquesover the next three years.
Look, Ma, No Lawyers!
Legal assistance without all the expense
Bringing order outside the court, We The People is a paralegalfranchise providing legal assistance without the gavel or theexpense. It offers customers who don't require the advice of anattorney help with nearly 100 legal documents (a bankruptcy, forexample, costs $199; an incorporation, $399), all prepared at theSanta Barbara, California, headquarters and then returned to eachstore.
The company's current count of more than 30 locations inCalifornia, Florida, New Jersey and Virginia is especiallyimpressive, considering founders and husband-and-wife team Ira andLinda Distenfield began the business in 1994 and just startedfranchising in 1995. Start-up costs are about $125,000, whichincludes the franchise fee, extensive training, the office openingand three months of working capital. But according to Ira,operating this franchise requires something far more important thanmoney: "a unique compassion for people."
Contact Sources
FACES Inc., 2300 Yonge St., #400, Box 2400, Toronto, ONM4P 1E4 CAN, (416) 545-1010
We The People, (805) 962-4100, fax: (805) 962-9602
