Learning Express vs Gymboree Franchise Comparison

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

Start-Up Costs and Fees
 
Learning Express Franchise
Gymboree Franchise
Investment $25,825 - $364,150$81,143 - $267,593
Franchise Fee $25,000 - $35,000$45,000
Royalty Fee 5%6%
Advertising Fee --
Year Founded 19871976
Year Franchised 19871978
Term Of Agreement 10 years10 years
Term Of Agreement 10 years10 years
Renewal Fee 10% of then current fran. fee-


Business Experience Requirements
 
Learning Express Franchise
Gymboree Franchise
Experience
  • General business experience
  • People skills

  • General business experience
    		•

    Financing Options
     
    Learning Express Franchise
    Gymboree Franchise
      In-House/3rd PartyIn-House/3rd Party
    Franchise Fees No/YesNo/No
    Start-up Costs No/YesNo/No
    Equipment No/YesNo/No
    Inventory No/YesNo/No
    Receivables No/YesNo/No
    Payroll No/YesNo/No

    Training & Support
     
    Learning Express Franchise
    Gymboree Franchise
    Training On-The-Job Training: 30 hours Classroom Training: 30 hours Additional Training: At toy fair, annual convention -
    Support Purchasing Co-ops Newsletter Meetings/Conventions Toll-Free Line Grand Opening Online Support Security/Safety Procedures ield Operations Site Selection Proprietary Software Franchisee Intranet Platform Newsletter, Meetings, Toll-free phone line, Grand opening, Internet, Field operations/evaluations, Purchasing cooperatives
    Marketing Co-op Advertising Ad Templates Social media SEO Website development Email marketing Loyalty program/app Co-op advertising, Ad slicks, National media, Regional advertising
    Operations 10% of all franchisees own more than one unit

    Number of employees needed to run franchised unit: 8 - 12

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

    		 International franchisees required to buy multiple units/master licenses; 44% of all franchisees own more than one unit

    Number of employees needed to run franchised unit: 3 - 4

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

    Expansion Plans
     
    Learning Express Franchise
    Gymboree Franchise
    US Expansion Yes-
    Canada Expansion NoNo
    International Expansion YesYes

    Company Overviews

    About Learning Express

                                                   Learning Should be FUN
    Learning Express Inc., is a specialty toy store franchise, with more than 100 locations across the country. As the leader of the specialty toy and children's gift category, Learning Express Inc. provides a fun and friendly shopping environment, with a knowledgeable sales staff that provides expert advice to parents looking for that perfect toy. At Learning Express Inc., we pride ourselves on the quality and uniqueness of our toy selection. We carefully select each product to ensure shelves are stocked with unique and innovative products that encourage learning through play, including games and puzzles, developmental toys, arts and crafts kits, science and nature products, construction toys, books, dolls, plush and other unique items exclusive to Learning Express Inc. and specialty toy retailers.

     Our Learning Express Inc. stores offer special services to all of its customers, such as VIP Programs, free personalization and free gift-wrapping. Our loyalty programs and incentives for repeat buying, including gift registries and many other customer services, continue to attract new customers while generating loyalty and sense of community from existing customers. Participation in fund-raising opportunities for schools and civic organizations is what makes the stores a hub for interactivity and community spirit! Storeowners enjoy the chance to give back to their community that has made them such a success. Each store captures the imagination and enthusiasm of its storeowners! Our knowledgeable team is comprised of dedicated, hard-working folks committed to providing the highest quality toys and exceptional customer service to customers and franchise owners. We're more than just colleagues - we're one big family!

    The estimated total investment necessary to begin the operation of a Local Store Franchise Business is $189,875 to $364,150 including the initial franchise fee of $35,000.
    The estimated total investment necessary to begin the operation of a Conversion Store is $25,825 to $88,875 including the initial franchise fee of $15,000. This is the total sum of all initial fees and payments for services or goods received from the franchisor and its affiliates before the business opens.
    Veteran Incentives  $5,000 off franchise fee

    "Entrepreneur
    #452 in Franchise 500 for 2020.

    About Gymboree

    San Francisco mother Joan Barnes created the Gymboree Play and Music Program in 1976 when she couldn't find a safe place for new parents and children to play and exercise together. There are now locations across the United States and throughout the world.

    Gymboree Play and Music centers offer different classes each week for children ranging from newborn through 4 years old. Classes are designed to stimulate the senses and encourage children's development.