Kitchen Wise
Kitchen Wise offers home-based, mobile services for custom kitchen, bathroom, and closet shelving solutions. Known for designing and installing bespoke products, it operates in the retail and home improvement franchise sector.
Kitchen Wise franchise FAQ
How much does it cost to open one — the total initial investment?
The total initial investment necessary to begin operation of a KITCHEN WISE franchise ranges from $127,600 to $219,000. This includes $70,000 that must be paid to the franchisor or affiliate. [p.1]
What is the initial franchise fee?
The initial franchise fee for a Kitchen Wise Franchised Business is $65,000. This fee is generally payable in one lump sum upon execution of the Franchise Agreement and is fully earned when paid, though it may be deferred under certain conditions as required by the Virginia State Corporation Commission's Division of Securities and Retail Franchising [p.22, p.162, p.204, p.205].
What are the ongoing royalty and advertising fees?
The ongoing royalty fee is a nonrefundable amount equal to the greater of $150 per week or six percent (6%) of Gross Sales [p.107]. There is also a requirement for local advertising payments, though specific details about these are not provided in the excerpts [p.4].
How long is the initial franchise agreement, and can I renew it?
The initial franchise agreement typically has an Initial Term, after which the franchisee has the right to renew the franchise for up to two successive ten-year periods [p.106]. However, renewal is subject to meeting certain conditions as specified in the FDD [p.106].
Can I sell or transfer my franchise, and what does that require?
According to [p.5], a provision permits the franchisor to refuse to permit a transfer of ownership of a franchise except for good cause, which includes but is not limited to unspecified factors. This does not prevent the franchisor from exercising a right of first refusal to purchase the franchise. Therefore, you cannot freely sell or transfer your franchise without the franchisor's approval, and any such transfer would need to be evaluated based on the franchisor's criteria for good cause.
On what grounds can the franchisor terminate the agreement?
The franchisor can terminate the agreement on any grounds available by law [p.201]. Additionally, the franchisor has the right to terminate the franchise agreement if the franchisee defaults under any other agreement between Franchisor and Franchisee [p.204], or fails to comply with lawful provisions of the franchise agreement and does not cure such failure within a reasonable time frame [p.5].
What financial requirements — net worth and liquid capital — do I need to qualify?
This isn't specified in the excerpts. The FDD does not provide specific details on net worth or liquid capital requirements for qualifying as a franchisee. It does recommend having additional funds available to cover operating expenses for the first 6 months, but this is more about working capital needs rather than qualification criteria based on net worth or liquid capital.
Do I get an exclusive or protected territory?
You do not receive an exclusive territory. However, you have a protected territory where you are the only franchisee allowed to operate Kitchen Wise Businesses, subject to certain conditions and exceptions as detailed in the FDD [p.46, p.195]. This protection does not extend to other Kitchen Wise Businesses or franchises outside your designated area.
What training and ongoing support does the franchisor provide?
The franchisor provides an initial training program overseen by their training and performance team, which uses a confidential Brand Standards Manual as instructional material. This must be completed no later than three months after the Effective Date of the Franchise Agreement. Additionally, the franchisor may require ongoing support through refresher trainings or regional meetings to enhance learning. Required additional training for new developments or changes in the system may also be provided, though costs associated with such training are at the franchisee's expense [p.38, p.41].
How many franchised outlets are there, and how many have closed or been terminated?
As of December 31, 2025, there were 20 franchised outlets. Additionally, during the year ended December 31, 2025, some franchisees had their contracts terminated, cancelled, or ceased to do business under the Franchise Agreement; however, the exact number is not specified in the excerpts. [p.67]
Does the franchisor share any financial performance or earnings information?
Yes, the franchisor may disclose financial performance or earnings information. According to [p.111], the franchisor can disclose such information for benchmarking purposes, in a financial performance representation provided to prospective franchisees, and to potential purchasers of the business or its assets. However, as stated on [p.51], other than providing actual records of an existing outlet when selling it, KitchenWise, LLC does not make any financial performance representations and does not authorize employees or representatives to do so either orally or in writing.
What am I restricted to selling, and where must I buy supplies?
You are not specifically restricted to selling any particular items; however, you may have to purchase certain equipment or supplies from the franchisor's approved vendor. For example, you must buy a 'home show kit' ranging from $3,000 to $6,500 depending on your selection, and general office supplies including stationery, business cards, and office equipment. [p.27]