Learning Express
Learning Express operates retail toy and gift stores, offering a franchise opportunity with an estimated investment of $202,516 to $386,016. Known for its toy and gift sales, Learning Express is part of the retail franchise industry.
About Learning Express
Learning Express Toys & Gifts, incorporated in 1987 as Learning Express, Inc., is a specialty toy, game and book retailer and franchisor headquartered in Devens, Massachusetts, United States. The company franchises specialty toy stores in the United States, each locally owned and operated.
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Learning Express franchise FAQ
How much does it cost to open one — the total initial investment?
The total initial investment necessary to begin the operation of a standard Learning Express franchise ranges from $202,516 to $386,016. For a Conversion Store franchise, the range is $25,375 to $119,516. These figures include an amount paid to the franchisor but do not specify all potential additional costs like inventory or gift card programs. [p.1, p.125]
What is the initial franchise fee?
The initial franchise fee for a first-time Learning Express franchise with a single retail location is $40,000 as stated on [p.121]. This fee is non-refundable once paid in full and must be received by Learning Express before signing a lease or attending the New Store Owner Training program.
What are the ongoing royalty and advertising fees?
The ongoing royalty fee is 5% of your monthly Gross Receipts or a minimum of $1,500 per month per location, whichever is greater [p.122]. Additionally, you must spend at least 3% of your Gross Receipts on local market advertising and promotion [p.27], with the requirement being in addition to the required Grand Opening Marketing Campaign expenditure of $7,500 [p.27].
How long is the initial franchise agreement, and can I renew it?
The initial franchise agreement does not specify a fixed term length [p.117]. However, you have the option to renew the agreement for two successive ten-year terms on the basis of Learning Express's then-current franchise agreement, subject to certain conditions [p.117].
Can I sell or transfer my franchise, and what does that require?
The FDD indicates that you may have restrictions on selling or transferring your franchise, as it permits the franchisor to refuse such transfers except for good cause [p.5(g)]. Good cause can include various factors but is not limited to these. This isn't specified in the excerpts.
On what grounds can the franchisor terminate the agreement?
The franchisor can terminate the franchise agreement if there is good cause, which includes the failure of the franchisee to comply with any lawful provision of the franchise agreement and failing to cure such failure after being given written notice and a reasonable opportunity (no more than 30 days) to do so. Additionally, if you continue to operate after the end of the term or any renewal term without exercising an option to renew, the franchisor may terminate your franchise agreement on ten days' written notice. [p.5, p.117]
What financial requirements — net worth and liquid capital — do I need to qualify?
This isn't specified in the excerpts.
Do I get an exclusive or protected territory?
Yes, you are granted an exclusive territory under the terms specified [p.30]. However, this exclusivity is conditional on your not being in default under the Franchise Agreement and does not extend to Temporary Locations without prior written consent from Learning Express [p.30, p.48].
What training and ongoing support does the franchisor provide?
The franchisor provides initial orientation and training courses before opening [p.125], as well as a four-week training program during the Grand Opening at your store [p.89]. Additionally, there is a mandatory New Store Owner Training Program that includes travel expenses for you and your employees [p.24]. The franchisor also offers First Year Training during the year following opening [p.89], though this may require attendance at industry events. Overall, while initial training costs are covered except for travel and living expenses, ongoing support is integrated and flexible in nature [p.24].
How many franchised outlets are there, and how many have closed or been terminated?
As of December 31, 2025, there were 78 operating franchised stores out of the 79 reported. The FDD indicates that a total of 20 franchised outlets had closed: 6 in 2023, 5 in 2024, 8 in 2025, and 1 in 2026 [p.37].
Does the franchisor share any financial performance or earnings information?
The franchisor, Learning Express, does not make any representations about future financial performance or past financial performance of company-owned or franchised outlets [p.38]. However, if you are purchasing an existing outlet, they may provide actual records of that specific outlet's performance [p.38]. This isn't specified in the excerpts for new franchise units.
What am I restricted to selling, and where must I buy supplies?
You are not restricted to what you can sell regarding the products or services. However, you may have to buy certain items from suppliers designated by the franchisor, which could potentially be more expensive than other options [p.3]. This isn't specified in the excerpts for where you must buy supplies specifically.