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Below is an in-depth analysis and side-by-side comparison of Computertots vs Tech Hero including start-up costs and fees, business experience requirements, training & support and financing options.
Start-Up Costs and Fees |
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Investment | $47,700 - $66,300 | $32,300 - $69,400 |
Franchise Fee | $30,000 | $20,000 |
Royalty Fee | 8% | - |
Advertising Fee | - | - |
Year Founded | 1983 | - |
Year Franchised | 1988 | - |
Term Of Agreement | 15 years | - |
Term Of Agreement | 15 years | - |
Renewal Fee | 5% of franchise fee | - |
Business Experience Requirements |
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Experience | The running of a Tech Hero business involves many more factors than simply servicing computers. Accounting, payroll, tax filings, hiring and advertising are some of the added responsibilities. Learning the service end of this business is often easier than learning the administrative end. | |
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 | - | Though tuition is included in the Franchise Fee, travel and living expenses will be charged to the Franchisee. The 5-day Microsoft Certified Systems Administrator course is offered in 230 locations. Travel and living expenses will also be charged to the Franchisee for the 4-day hands-on management training which is conducted in Orlando, Florida. |
Support | Newsletter, Meetings, Toll-free phone line, Internet, Security/safety procedures | - |
Marketing | National media, Regional advertising | - |
Operations |
Franchise can be run from home. International franchisees required to buy multiple units/master licenses; 10% of all franchisees own more than one unit Number of employees needed to run franchised unit: 6 Absentee ownership of franchise is NOT allowed. (100% of current franchisees are owner/operators) | - |
Expansion Plans |
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US Expansion | - | - |
Canada Expansion | No | - |
International Expansion | Yes | - |
Computertots is now a subsidiary of ComputerExplorers In 1984, personal computers were still considered a luxury, and schools were figuring out how to best use the new technology as a learning tool. Moms Karen Marshall and Mary Rogers saw the teaching potential of computers and began Computertots/Computer Explorers with $1,500, one computer and 10 young students. Franchisees can operate the business using either a manager model or an owner-operated model. A manager employs a staff to assist in the teaching and operation of the business; the owner of an owner-operated model not only teaches classes, but also operates the business.
In 2003, Computertots/Computer Explorers was acquired by The International Center for Entrepreneurial Development Inc., which also owns Kwik Kopy Printing, Kwik Kopy Business Centers, Franklin's Printing, American Wholesale Thermographers, Copy Club, Women's Health Boutique and Parcel Plus.
� Specialized IT Enterprise Software � Strong e-Business Infrastructure � Integrated Marketing � Automated Part Procurement � Automated Client Billing Marketing Materials Access to a wide range of advertising materials Automated Direct Mail Advertising made effortless with the Tech Hero reminder system Parts Management The best parts at the best prices National Recognition Tech Hero is rapidly becoming a nationally recognized brand Enterprise IT Software State of the art management software Solid Business Support Tap into our strong network of experienced professionals