The State of Franchising A Viable Business Opportunity.

As the overheated American economy has finally began to cool down, many businesses are finding themselves looking for those "new markets" that will supply them with the opportunity for continued growth and expansion. This is particularly true when it comes to franchise businesses.

According to the International Franchise Association, there are more than 1,500 franchise concepts, representing more than 75 business categories, operating nearly 350,000 units throughout the United States. These small businesses collectively account for an estimated $1 trillion in retail sales annually. Franchise business owners can be found in virtually every type of business, selling an increasingly wide variety of goods and services to the American consumer.

More than ever before, franchise businesses, with their highly recognized brands and sophisticated marketing and advertising programs, are attracting extremely motivated entrepreneurs. More and more of these "new economy" business people are coming from the minority community. For many, franchising is providing the tool needed to break the "glass ceiling" found in many large U.S. corporations. It is proving to be a way to achieve one part of the American dream - owning one's own business.

As the former President of the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago said, "You don't have to cross the International Date Line to find an emerging market. We have some right under our noses." This "domestic emerging market" is located in the overlooked and underserved neighborhoods of medium and large cities across the United States. Former President Bill Clinton said in his 1999 State of the Union Address, "Our greatest untapped markets are not overseas - they are right here at home, And we should go after them." And now it would appear, that many retailers, particularly those with franchise businesses, are starting to heed this very sound advice.

WHY HERE? WHY NOW?

In the past decade, there has been a growing recognition that the future growth of the American retail market may be directly linked to the health of the American urban market. American inner-city neighborhoods are brimming with under serviced retail purchasing power. A recent study by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Affairs revealed that in 1998, nearly one-third of the $1.1 trillion dollars in retail buying power found in our central cities, or roughly $331 billion, was located in "inner-city" neighborhoods. But, despite this enormous spending power, these communities remain under retailed. In fact, the unmet demand in many of these communities ranges from 25% to as much as 60%.

The opportunity for retail development is real. It can provide a much needed shot in the arm for many communities that are struggling to maintain viability or to restore the vitality that time and neglect has stolen. Franchise businesses provide jobs, increase a community's tax base and attract new neighbors. At the same time, the community benefits from the infusion of new business owners who can provide an important political, social, and civic voice.

Even that old nemesis - access to capital - is finding some new answers in this "new age" economy. As a result of the Community Reinvestment Act, many financial institutions are developing loan programs that are designed to support individuals interested in establishing franchise businesses in underserved communities. The Small Business Administration has established a Franchise Registry to expedite the availability of funding for people interested in one of those listed small businesses, A bipartisan group in Congress, working with the Clinton Administration, passed the Community Renewal Tax Relief Act of 2000 (H.R. 5662) which provides for a variety of financing tools to assist businesses that are or will located in underserved communities. It provides for venture capital funds, employment and business tax credits, elimination of capital gains, and other capital building measures. And, recently, a group of professional athletes, with the assistance of Wallace Enterprises, formed a new venture called Athletes Building Better Communities to develop franchise opportunities in underserved markets around the country.

There are excellent opportunities for franchisors to develop new and rewarding business ventures with people who are interested in taking advantage of the opportunities buried in these underserved markets.

One Franchise That Delivers.

The Pet Pantry offers a unique, family friendly business opportunity to tap a $10 billion dollar (U.S.) pet food trade ... in your own community. Our turnkey, high margin, recession proof model is designed to cater to pet owners, through a free home delivery and bin system of our custom-blended, All-Natural dog/cat pet food products. One person can operate the business efficiently; up to your first 900 customers. We even provide you 500 patrons during the start up period, and, naturally, exceptional corporate support.

Talk about a value-driven investment for a prospective franchise owner ... The Pet Pantry system was strategically designed to provide you with an enjoyable business that allows you to "have a life" and "run the show," with few interruptions. Take a quick glance at our complete package: a turnkey operation; protected territories (55k HH each); high margins (47% min.); no royalties or advertising fees; low overhead (most are owner-operated) and no storefront necessary; minimal inventory; 100s of customers provided by corporate during start-up; excellent customer acquisition & retention programs; exhaustive training, and unparalled ongoing support. Phew! All this for the mere cost of an upscale automobile ... only $65,000 (franchise fee and initial inventory inc.).

Succinctly put, The Pet Pantry is truly a unique business that has limited competition, and unlimited customers. We are currently in 20 states, and expanding rapidly, with multiple territories available throughout the United States. We have also recently made Master License Agreements available: primarily in Canada, and parts of South America, Europe and Asia.

For Franchise availability in the U.S., please contact C. Wade Webster, at 800/381.7387, or email at [e-mail]. For International Master License Agreements, please contact Don A. Lockman at 800/381.7387, or email at [e-mail]. Or log onto our web site at: www.thepetpantry.com.

Subway[R] Restaurants: Number One Franchise Opportunity For a Reason ...(*)

You've always wanted to be your own boss. You're willing to work hard to achieve your goals. You have a can-do positive attitude. You're an entrepreneur at heart, and you need to think about becoming a member of the Subway team--14,800 restaurants strong in 76 countries-all independently owned.

At Subway, the franchisor-franchisee relationship is a vital part of the growth and achievements of the chain. Subway's 36 years of experience and expertise not only guides you through the process of setting up your own business, but, more importantly, you have the continued support of a multitude of talented individuals who want you to succeed.

"We are seeking candidates with good common business sense, the ability to work within a structured franchise system, and a willingness to be involved in the day-to-day operations. We want hands-on owner operators," says Don Fertman, director of franchise sales.

Subway's commitment to minority franchisees is unwavering. It covers financial assistance by financing 90% of the franchise fee, as well as $10,000 for qualified minority prospects, and about $40,000 worth of equipment leasing.

You don't get to be the largest fastfood sandwich chain in the world by leaving your franchisees high and dry. You get there together through a chain of cooperation, support, reinforcement and a willingness to share talents and gifts with others.

For more information, contact us at: 1-800-888-4848 Fax: [phone] Email: [e-mail] Website: www.subway.com

(*) Entrepreneur magazine January 2001 Annual Franchise 500.

Golden Corral 

Golden Corral, which had record system wide sales of $968 million in 2000, is one of the fastest growing family restaurant chains in the nation. Golden Corral is ranked number one in the grill-buffet segment of the industry and features a "Golden Choice Buffet" that offers 140 hot and cold items, plus a carving station with ham, roast beef, and turkey. Steaks are Golden Corral's heritage and all steaks are fresh cut daily in the restaurant.

Franchisees lead the growth of the Golden Corral system. There are 332 franchised restaurants in the system, compared to 120 company-operated units. Sales of franchised restaurants in 2000 were a record $644 million, or two-thirds of the system total.

Golden Corral Corporation of Raleigh, N.C., granted agreements for 73 new markets in 2000. Strong emphasis is being placed on the East and West Coasts, with a particular focus on urban markets.

A new Golden Corral restaurant opens on the average of one every 14 days. Franchisees choose from three sizes of restaurants (small, mid-size, and large) scaled to match the sales potential of the markets they serve. The restaurants range from about 7,400 square feet with 270 seats to about 11,500 square feet with 450 seats.

The Athlete's Foot 

The Athlete's Foot, the world's oldest and largest athletic footwear franchise, is the recognized leader in athletic footwear franchising. With more than 750 stores in over 45 countries, The Athlete's Foot offers a comprehensive support program backed by three decades of experience.

The Athlete's Foot seeks to provide outstanding franchise ownership opportunities by developing relationships that advance minority ownership in communities across the U.S. and the globe.

Some of our greatest success stories come from our local minority owners who blend their entrepreneurial expertise with The Athlete's Foot proven formula for success. According to Marry Amschler, Vice President of Franchise for The Athlete's Foot Group, these partnerships are invaluable to the success of the company. "By providing the expertise, brand name and vendor relationships to a franchisee, we can help put the right infrastructure in place to grow a successful business. This expertise ensures we all cater to the unique needs of the local marketplace".

The Athlete's Foot was named "Trendsetter of the Year" for 1999 by Sports Trend magazine, as well as Success magazine's number one franchise opportunity and Entrepreneur International magazine's eighth largest global retail franchisor.

The Athlete's Foot is a privately owned company based in the Atlanta area.

JAN-PRO 383 Strand Industrial Drive Little River, SC 29556 Ph: [phone] Fx: [phone] [e-mail] www.jan-pro.com

Over the past ten years, JAN-PRO has given individuals the opportunity to gain financial independence and unlimited growth potential by joining the premiere company in the commercial cleaning industry. Ranked as one of the Top 5 fastest-growing franchises in Entrepreneur's annual "Franchise 500" we offer you the opportunity to be in business for yourself, but not by yourself.

JAN-PRO's franchise program is one of the most comprehensive of its kind. Combining sound business practices and innovation, this program is designed to assist you every step of the way and in every aspect of business. You become your own boss through the guidance and support of an established franchise

organization.

Michael Faison, JAN-PRO franchise owner in Philadelphia, always wanted to be an entrepreneur, but knew first-hand the problems of being in business for himself. Owning a JAN-PRO franchise has given him the freedom to own and operate a successful business and the flexibility to pursue other interests with his family and community.

"I liked the idea of a JAN-PRO franchise," Faison says, "because it gives me a proven system in which to grow my business. JAN-PRO got me started by providing accounts. They also supply me with marketing, insurance and bonding, and they handle all the paperwork."

As a new JAN-PRO franchisee, you'll be assigned customers once you have completed training. Additional on-site teaching is provided as well as a work schedule. If additional workers are needed, JAN-PRO will help in the hiring process and if need be, will provide a crew to get things rolling.

Once your business is established, it's time to expand. There is no limit to how large you can eventually expand your business. The JAN-PRO program is designed for the individual owner to grow their business in manageable steps, with various investment programs.

With over 800 franchises nationwide, JAN-PRO offers internal financing programs for minority franchisees. We also encourage the development of cleaning contracts with facilities located within inner city cores. We're poised for growth in the new century and we are committed to helping you succeed.

SIGN-A-RAMA

SIGN-A-RAMA, the world's largest, fastest growing name in the full-service, quick sign industry, is celebrating its 15th anniversary throughout 2001. With such a strong history and 520 franchises in the U.S. and around the world, there is a good reason for the company's success. Kevin Wheeler, Director of Minority Development, explains:

"SIGN-A-RAMA has a tremendous training and support system in place to help new and existing franchisees hit the ground running. Initial training takes place at the company's Corporate Offices in beautiful West Palm Beach, Florida. This high-tech teaching facility incorporates the latest equipment and training techniques, giving new franchisees the information and tools they need to open their new franchise with confidence." "Additionally," Wheeler continues, "Corporate Regional Offices are located conveniently and strategically throughout the country. Each office is staffed with a Regional Vice-President and support staffs that are on-call for you. Your new hires receive local training - you are in business for yourself, but not by yourself. Helping new franchisees start up their business and getting things running smoothly is one of SIGN-A-RAMA's strengths. But it certainly doesn't stop there."

"On going training, vendor exhibits, and camaraderie at SIGN-A-RAMA's annual, industry-famous EXPO keep our franchisees current about everything in the quick-sign business," Wheeler adds. "When customers come into a SIGN-A-RAMA store, they know the owners and staff are knowledgeable, dependable, and do outstanding, quality work. SIGN-A-RAMA franchise owners are proud of their businesses and how they operate them. And customers can tell.

"In closing," Wheeler says, "I'm as proud to be a part of the SIGN-A-RAMA family as our franchisees are. This company supports minority initiatives and will do whatever it takes to make you a successful franchise owner. We've done it in New York, Chicago, and Los Angeles. Take the first step and call me," says Wheeler. "I'll show you how easy it is to be the owner of the best sign franchise in the world." Kevin Wheeler, Director of Minority Development, can be reached at SIGN-A-RAMA's Corporate Office by calling [phone]. Visit SIGN-A-RAMA's Web site www.signarama.com

Church's Chicken 

The New Value Leader Hungry For An Opportunity?.

If you are looking to invest in a growing global franchise, with a proven strategic business system and exceptional consumer value, Church's Chicken is your Franchise of Choice.

As a member of the AFC Enterprises family, Church's is the second largest chicken restaurant chain in the country, with over 1,500 locations in 28 states and 12 countries.

The Church's success story began in 1952 - across the street from the Alamo in San Antonio, Texas. Since then, Church's simple operating system and the public's passion for our great tasting chicken has made us a global leader in the Quick Service Restaurant industry.

Our chicken has "Crave Appeal" which keeps consumers coming back time after time for that unique, homemade taste that only Church's can provide. Our signature Honey Butter biscuits, jalapeno peppers, and fried okra are delicious compliments to our marinated Fried Chicken.

Church's has grown successfully in both international and U.S. markets. Multi-unit development is a fundamental element of our global strategy and a requirement for establishing brand presence. Church's also continues to focus on growing the ranks of minority and women Franchise Partners. "Church's will continue to create opportunities that benefit the people and communities who are at the heart of our customer base", says Hala Moddelmog, President of Church's Chicken.

If you are Hungry for an Opportunity, Church's Wants You to Grow with our Family.

Contact us - Global Business Development, 980 Hammond Drive - Suite 1100, Atlanta, Georgia 30328, 800-639-3495 - www.churchs.com.

Coverall 

Coverall North America, Inc. ("Coverall") is a recognized leader at the forefront of minority participation when it comes to franchise ownership. This is best demonstrated by the fact that eighty percent of the company's 6000+ franchises are owned by minorities, half of which are African-Americans. Coverall has attained this position in part by encouraging its regional offices to become aware of and take advantage of special programs and services available to minority entrepreneurs interested in the commercial cleaning industry.

Becoming part of the Coverall team is not made complicated by a rigorous application process and unrealistic financial requirements. With an initial investment from as low as $1,500 and a total cash investment ranging from $6,000 - $32,200, an individual can become involved in an industry that has experienced unparalleled growth.

Coverall's comprehensive training and support program guides each new Franchise Owner through three distinct phases: The Start-Up Phase, which includes intense hands-on training, a beginning equipment package and an initial customer base; the Operating Phase, provides management and development training, billing and collection services, cash flow protection services; and the Growth Phase, includes national marketing support, and on-going training for new opportunities in unique services and niche markets. Each phase is designed to help new entrepreneurs build a solid foundation for growing their business.

Franchisee Edwin Ross summed up Coverall's commitment to minority entrepreneurs, "It was more than just investing in a business. After speaking with friends who had already invested in Coverall franchises, I knew Coverall viewed African-Americans as key players in their system. And when I spoke with the regional office here in Cincinnati, they were extremely helpful. They worked very hard to help me secure the financial help I needed to get my business started. I always felt welcome and part of the Coverall team."

To learn more about this unique opportunity, call 1-800-537-3371, or visit Coverall at www.coverall.com.

AAMCO Transmissions

"I was going to college, had no mechanical experience, and thought my AAMCO experience would be only temporary. That was 15 years ago," says Peter Fiorentino of New Brunswick, NJ

"Several years ago I decided to purchase an AAMCO center of my own. My initial investment was only $75,000. But after five and a half years of hard work and dedication to my business, I am now worth close to $1,500,000." Fiorentino is living the American dream.

Another AAMCO franchisee, Gary Haslip of Eugene, OR, adds, "I'm enjoying a lifestyle that at one time I could only dream about. I'm very thankful that I've aligned myself with AAMCO Transmissions."

Are you searching for financial security, for independence, for control? Could you be the next AAMCO success story? There's never been a better time to buy an AAMCO center.

An AAMCO franchise offers what few other business opportunities can. Since 1963, AAMCO has attracted business-minded professionals and entrepreneurs from all walks of life.

Here's how you can benefit from owning an AAMCO franchise:

* 92 out of 100 motorists know the AAMCO brand-that's four times the recognition of any other transmission repair specialist. That recognition is continually reinforced with notable broadcast advertising campaigns featuring the well-known "Double A, beep beep, MCO" tagline and an AAMCO tradition of celebrity spokespersons.

* Nearly 40 years of leadership in the $150 billion automotive aftermarket.

* AAMCO is the world's largest chain of transmission specialists, with more than 700 franchised centers from coast to coast.

* No mechanical experience is required.

The AAMCO system provides the tools you need to be successful. As an AAMCO franchisee, you receive support with market development and site selection, comprehensive dealer training, operations training and consulting, and technical assistance.

For financial security and independence, call AAMCO at 800-223-8887 for complete information and a fact filled video, or email: [e-mail].

Sunoco, Inc. Ten Penn Center 1801 Market Street - 22nd Floor Philadelphia, PA 19103 [phone] - Phone [phone] - Fax www.sunoco.com

TYPE OF BUSINESS

Sunoco sells gasoline and middle distillates at retail and operates service repair outlets and convenience stores in 12 New England and Mid-Atlantic States from Maine to Virginia.

HISTORY

Retail Petroleum Marketer since 1920.

CASH INVESTMENT

The amount of case or liquid assets required will vary depending on the method of acquisition and characteristics of the particular site.

PROGRAM TRAINING

Retail candidates attend an intensive four-week course at Sunoco University in Philadelphia, PA. There, you will receive education and training in basic business and retailing fundamentals, accounting, gasoline management and marketing training, employee recruitment and development and other pertinent topics. In addition, the company provides seminars periodically on topics pertaining to the business.

MARKETING SUPPORT

Sunoco's field operations staff is comprised of highly trained, experienced business professionals who understand the complexities of your business and who are dedicated to helping you and your business succeed.

Proactive marketing support is provided through highly professional advertising and promotional support teams. Sunoco continually adds value to your business though its exciting promotional programs. Whether it be a regional or local campaign, a mass media or point of sale material promotion, you'll have support to let customers know about the special services you offer.

QUALIFICATIONS

To begin the process of acquiring a franchise, complete a franchise application and return it to Sunoco. Upon receipt of your application, it will be reviewed to see if it meets our initial requirements. You will be notified in approximately 3 weeks as to your preliminary status. Shortly thereafter, you will be contacted by our field staff to advise of the availability of sites in the applicable geographical area and to further discuss your application.

WHAT SETS US APART FROM THE COMPETITION

A Sunoco franchise gives you the opportunity to be in business for yourself, not by yourself. By being member of the Sunoco family, Sunoco franchisees are able to blend well proven operating standards with their own personal ideas to build a thriving business.

CONTACT

To obtain your application, please write to: Dealer Recruitment, Sunoco, Inc., 1801 Market Street - 22nd Floor, Philadelphia, PA 19103-1699 or call 800-SUN-5099