Job Discussion Forums

davidreese · Joined: 25 Jan 2009 Posts: 11

Hi:

I'm considering buying a franchise from either Smith's or Modern English.

I would be selling a business in the United States - two actually - one a small marketing service and the other a theater. I have experience teaching- about eight years but no specifically in ESL. I was going to get a CELTA certificate over the summer and begin volunteering to gain experience.

My fiance is Japanese. Is this a viable business? I'm use to working about twelve hours a day six days a week and half a day on Sunday. My assumption is that I would need to supplement the school classes is some other part-time classes at other schools.

Any thoughts would be appreciated. The purchase price is approximately 38k.

Replies can be sent to: [email protected] or posted.

Thanks-

David

Glenski · Joined: 15 Jan 2003 Posts: 12844 Location: Hokkaido, JAPAN

People and an entire website have been warning people to steer clear of the S franchise for years. Heed that advice.

Sour Grape · Joined: 10 May 2005 Posts: 241

I've never ever seen a Smith's school in Japan. They're obviously in stark contrast to the immediately obvious branches of Shane and the late Nova. Has anyone seen one?

Cole · Joined: 17 Apr 2007 Posts: 31

Hello David,

From how you describe your approach to your current business, you seem to have the work ethic that is essential for success in any venture.

Personally, I would not buy into any franchise in this area. Ask yourself what they can do for you that you couldn't do for yourself. Not much, in my opinion. Better to have your own name hanging on the shingle out in front of your business. Also, It goes without saying that you will be the one completely in control; you'll not be tied down to any of the contractual stipluations of the franchise, whatever they may be.

Good luck!

Cole

jebadia · Joined: 30 Jan 2009 Posts: 1

Hi David,

Reading about your situation - you might try looking at another possible route. A licensing agreement to use an established method in your own school. One such method is SpeakYourMind. www.speakumind.com
A solution such as this allows you to remain independent and yet not have to 'reinvent' the wheel so to speak. That particular method is already being used in Tokyo (in one school operating since 2000 and in another school which is getting started this spring) and in many other locations world-wide. It provides a lot of the benefits you find with a franchise and yet doesn't tie you down or come anywhere near the costs of most franchises.

Just a thought. Best of luck!