DirectBuy vs NTC Franchise Comparison

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

Start-Up Costs and Fees

 
DirectBuy Franchise
NTC Franchise
Investment $359,000 - $904,000$30,000 - $150,000
Franchise Fee $75,000N/A
Royalty Fee 22%-
Advertising Fee 3%-
Year Founded 19711997
Year Franchised 19720
Term Of Agreement 12 years-
Term Of Agreement 12 years-
Renewal Fee --


Business Experience Requirements

 
DirectBuy Franchise
NTC Franchise
Experience
  • Marketing skills
  • -

    Financing Options

     
    DirectBuy Franchise
    NTC 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
    NTC Franchise
    Training At regional meetingsNTC Exclusive Agents will complete our orientation training program. Training includes many internet-based, self-paced product and sales courses. In addition, NTC can provide on-location training and ongoing on-site support.
    Support Newsletter, Meetings, Internet, Field operations/evaluationsYou will receive access to NTC's operational and financial resources to help with day-to-day operations, as well as ongoing support from a NTC representative, guidance on all promotional materials, operational updates, and company newsletters.
    Marketing Co-op advertising, Ad slicks, National mediaAdvertising is done on a local, regional, and national level. With NTC at your side, you can conduct local advertising for your own territory. NTC offers pooled co-op advertising dollars, brand guidelines, and creative support to help you achieve a great local presence.
    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)

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    Expansion Plans

     
    DirectBuy Franchise
    NTC Franchise
    US Expansion YesYes
    Canada Expansion No-
    International Expansion Yes-

    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 NTC

    THIS IS NOT A FRANCHISE THIS IS AN OPERATOR AGENT PROGRAM Become a NTC Exclusive Agent and enjoy the personal satisfaction and financial rewards that come from helping others achieve their goals. By utilizing the knowledge, the systems and the relationships that we've developed over 12 years, you can get started immediately. If you are accepted as a NTC Exclusive Agent, we will train, certify and support you for the life of your business. By working with us, your entrepreneurial dreams can become reality. NTC Exclusive Agents have tremendous income potential. Unlike many other businesses, there is no upward limitation on income. Overhead is very low. The business may be run from home or a small office, requiring only a phone, fax and computer. The NTC corporate business development team will not only stand by you every step of the way, but also guide you through a business and financial modeling process to ensure your success. You will be in business for yourself, but never by yourself! If you are looking for an opportunity with a dynamic company in a savvy, sophisticated industry, become an NTC Exclusive Agent. Become a leader.