DirectBuy vs Discovery Map International Franchise Comparison

Below is an in-depth analysis and side-by-side comparison of DirectBuy vs Discovery Map International including start-up costs and fees, business experience requirements, training & support and financing options.

Start-Up Costs and Fees
 
DirectBuy Franchise
Discovery Map International Franchise
Investment $359,000 - $904,000$35,950 - $45,950
Franchise Fee $75,000$25,000
Royalty Fee 22%10%
Advertising Fee 3%to1%
Year Founded 19711981
Year Franchised 19721993
Term Of Agreement 12 years10 years +5+5
Term Of Agreement 12 years10 years +5+5
Renewal Fee --


Business Experience Requirements
 
DirectBuy Franchise
Discovery Map International Franchise
Experience
  • Marketing skills

    • Business and sales experience is certainly helpful, but a major key to the successful operation of a Discovery Map franchise is the personality of the Franchisee. Are you: * Goal oriented?

    * People oriented?

    * Organized and detail oriented?

    * Adequately financed?


    Financing Options
     
    DirectBuy Franchise
    Discovery Map International Franchise
      In-House/3rd PartyIn-House/3rd Party
    Franchise Fees Yes/Yes-/-
    Start-up Costs No/Yes-/-
    Equipment No/Yes-/-
    Inventory No/No-/-
    Receivables No/No-/-
    Payroll No/No-/-

    Training & Support
     
    DirectBuy Franchise
    Discovery Map International Franchise
    Training At regional meetingsA crucial benefit of our Franchise Package is our exceptional Training Program. An initial 4 day comprehensive training session at our headquarters in Waitsfield, VT., and supplemental hands-on training in your map territory give you everything you need to run your new business successfully.
    Support Newsletter, Meetings, Internet, Field operations/evaluationsTo ensure the success and growth of your operation, Resort Maps provides assistance with all aspects of running your business, including

    Site selection research for the map location

    Map drawing and design

    Promotions to prospective advertisers

    Ongoing public relations and new business development

    Marketing Co-op advertising, Ad slicks, National media-
    Operations 1% of all franchisees own more than one unit

    Number of employees needed to run franchised unit: 9 - 12

    Absentee ownership of franchise is NOT allowed. (100% of current franchisees are owner/operators)

    		-

    Expansion Plans
     
    DirectBuy Franchise
    Discovery Map International Franchise
    US Expansion YesYes
    Canada Expansion NoYes
    International Expansion YesYes

    Company Overviews

    About DirectBuy

    James L. Gagan founded UCC TotalHome in 1971 and began franchising the following year. Based in Merrillville, Indiana, the private company has over 90 locations throughout North America. DirectBuy began with a vision. It was a vision of liberating consumers from the high cost of retail buying; of allowing consumers to buy goods for their homes at manufacturer direct prices plus freight, handling and sales tax; of restoring to families the opportunity to buy the things they need and want at prices they could afford. That was over three decades ago. Today, the vision has materialized into an exceptional opportunity for DirectBuy franchise owners. We provide a proven, replicable system that allows them to realize the results and rewards of their business quickly. DirectBuy is the largest, most successful business of its kind in North America. For homeowners, remodelers and families in general, our centers are a very significant channel of alternative purchasing in North America.

    About Discovery Map International

    THE DISCOVERY MAP OPPORTUNITY
    Discovery Map specializes in a unique advertising-based business system. The demand for our medium continues to rise steadily; by becoming a Discovery Maps Franchisee, you can be part of this exciting and rewarding advertising field. Right now opportunities await qualified individuals to develop single or multiple-map franchises in suitable locations in the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom. We have over 125 successful maps and are growing faster than ever before.
     ENSURING THE BEST CHANCE FOR SUCCESS
    Here are some Discovery Map franchise advantages:
    * Complete start-up marketing package
    * Comprehensive map design and publishing support
    * Expert training and ongoing support in operating your business
    * Experienced and dedicated corporate staff determined to help you succeed
    * Personal and financial benefits of business ownership
    * Freedom and flexibility to run the business from your home
    * Careful pre-screening of the location by experienced professionals

    * A proven record of success: over 125 established maps with 5% - 10% projected growth in 2013.

    "Entrepreneur
    #386 in Franchise 500 for 2020.