Children’s Activity Franchising - Businesses that can be as Financially Rewarding as they are Emotionally
Why little people can bring large results
The children’s activity sector is one of the fastest-growing parts of franchising, with concepts of all shapes and sizes sweeping the globe. This includes youth sports, language learning, performing arts, general education, STEM learning, outdoor play, nurseries, baby and toddler classes and swimming to name but a few.
The sector continues to expand in the UK, proving to be consistently resistant to economic turmoil and recessions. For example, spending on children’s activities has grown by a further 7.8% over the past 12 months, with an average monthly spend of £35 per activity, according to Franscape.
So, what’s fuelling this expansion?
The increasing dependence on technology has caused children in many households to remain at home, glued to their electronic devices. Activity franchises are counterbalancing this trend by appealing to parents, carers, and guardians who feel that children’s activities get them out the house and are a good source of ‘edutainment’ – a blend of educational skills and childhood fun.
There’s certainly a growing market to capitalise on here, and we’re already beginning to see this come to fruition. In 2020, the number of children aged under 16 years increased by 8%, amounting to a population of 12.7 million in the UK. There are currently more than 5000 franchisors with around 40,000 franchisees vying for the attention of this population.
Why are people investing right now?
Children’s activity businesses are growing in popularity among franchisees looking to invest. The examples of success coming from the industry are certainly attractive with brands such as Water Babies, Tutor Doctor, Stagecoach Performing Arts and Puddle Ducks all ranked in the Elite Franchise Top 100 in 2023. However, the autonomy and flexible working hours that usually come with these business models are also a big appeal. For example, many choose to start a franchise to earn a second income or find work that can fit around their lifestyle choices.
Sometimes children’s services can be dismissed as quaint, warm, and fuzzy. But it’s actually big business. In 2022, the sector was worth £17.7 billion to the UK economy, according to the Institute of Children’s Activity Providers (ICAP).
Many franchise owners in this space have grown sizable, thriving businesses that make financial returns which are just as significant as the emotional rewards. In this industry, doing good and running a profitable business definitely aren’t mutually exclusive.
There’s usually a lower risk associated with investing in a children’s activity franchise compared to starting your own business from scratch as the benefits of brand awareness and stress tested lesson plans and materials give you an enormous headstart. That’s often the case in comparison to other types of franchises too because franchise fees remain typically lower, and overheads and fixed costs are usually minimal. It means children’s activity businesses are more accessible to willing investors than in other sectors.
Finding funding and meeting legal requirements
There are so many great reasons to take on a children’s activity franchise, but the most obvious one is having a real desire to work with children. Therefore, make sure that your selected franchise brand aligns with your passions and values, as you’ll be investing a lot of your time, blood, sweat and tears into the business.
You’ll also want to consider cost, the funding that’s available, and the demographics of your franchise, whether it’s an easy area to break into, where your competitors operate, and market size.
Moreover, you need to consider the legalities of entering into a franchise agreement. You can find support with this every step of the way from many established banking and legal organisations.
Oftens responsible franchisors will also provide access to any training and resources you may need, so even if you haven’t experience of running a business yourself yet - or find the idea of sales, marketing, or finances to be daunting, they will have your back.
The Children’s Activity Pavilion
On the 12th and 13th of April 2024, Kindling Franchise Consultants in partnership with The International Franchise Show brings you the Children's Activity Franchise Pavilion. A platform for over 20 of the top brands in the children’s activity sector and a showcase for the most incredible opportunities on offer within the industry. The two organisations have collaborated to shine a spotlight on the underrepresented, but highly exciting franchises that are making waves.
How Will the Pavilion Support The Industry?
Kindling is a specialist consulting firm, recognised as one of the UK's most respected experts in children’s activity franchising. We provide strategic support to more than 20 children’s franchise brands across the globe. Led by founder Andrew Walters and with two decades of experience in senior management at some of the world’s best Franchise brands including Stagecoach Performing Arts, Pitman Training and Mad Science, they provide a unique voice in the franchise sector.
The International Franchise Show has been running for over 12 years playing host to the most incredible franchise brands and opportunities across the globe. The event boasts a line-up of over 250 exhibitors and 60 plus speakers and welcomes over 10,000 entrepreneurs, potential franchisees and franchisors through the doors. The Franchise Show has been connecting individuals to their perfect business opportunity for over a decade and is set to host an even bigger and better event in April 2024. With over 50 international brands showcasing their franchise, this is the perfect place to invest in your dream business.
Make sure you join on the 13th and 14th of April 2024 by registering for your free ticket via the website at www.thefranchiseshow.co.uk. Visit the Children's Activity Franchise Pavilion yourself to see if you might find the franchise opportunity of your dreams.
