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Below is an in-depth analysis and side-by-side comparison of Friendly Computers vs The Fourth R including start-up costs and fees, business experience requirements, training & support and financing options.
Start-Up Costs and Fees |
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Investment | $51,000 - $143,980 | $15,000 - $40,000 |
Franchise Fee | $25,000 | $8,000 - $20,000 |
Royalty Fee | 8% | 5% |
Advertising Fee | N/A | - |
Year Founded | 1992 | 1992 |
Year Franchised | 2000 | 1992 |
Term Of Agreement | 10 years | - |
Term Of Agreement | 10 years | - |
Renewal Fee | $2.5K | - |
Business Experience Requirements |
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Experience | - | - |
Financing Options |
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In-House/3rd Party | In-House/3rd Party | |
Franchise Fees | Yes/No | -/- |
Start-up Costs | No/No | -/- |
Equipment | No/No | -/- |
Inventory | No/No | -/- |
Receivables | No/No | -/- |
Payroll | No/No | -/- |
Training & Support |
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Training | - | - |
Support | Newsletter, Meetings, Toll-free phone line, Grand opening, Internet, Security/safety procedures, Field operations/evaluations, Purchasing cooperatives | - |
Marketing | Co-op advertising, Ad slicks | - |
Operations | Retail Service Center or Home Based Models. Part-time, Fulltime or Passive ownership allowed. Number of employees needed to run franchised unit: 1 - 4 Absentee ownership of franchise is allowed. (82% of current franchisees are owner/operators) | - |
Expansion Plans |
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US Expansion | Yes | - |
Canada Expansion | Yes | No |
International Expansion | Yes | No |
Originally started from a college apartment in 1992, Friendly Computers is now a franchise providing businesses and consumers with on-site computer repair and support. The company helps customers from beginning users setting up their first computer to large corporations installing networks and implementing e-commerce solutions.
Computers have changed virtually all aspects of our lives. As we move rapidly from an industrial to an information economy, computer literacy is the "FOURTH R" in education. Governments worldwide view the development of technology skills as key to their country's future. Children need strong computer skills to succeed in school. Organizations must invest in computer training to increase productivity and competitiveness. Certification provides a benchmark of a student's skill competency. Computer skills offer income growth and job opportunities. The Fourth R Inc., established in 1991, provides quality courseware, assessment software, and certification services to leading schools and learning centers throughout the world. The excellence of our programs has fueled growth to over 150 affiliates in over 20 countries. The Fourth R is currently seeking international country Master License partners for joint development of a country.