Made in the Shade
Made in the Shade offers franchises in window covering sales and distribution. Known for providing customizable shades and blinds, it operates in the home improvement and decor products industry.
Made in the Shade franchise FAQ
How much does it cost to open one — the total initial investment?
The total initial investment necessary to begin operating a MITS Business ranges from $67,500 to $77,500 that must be paid to the franchisor or affiliate, according to page [p.1].
What is the initial franchise fee?
The initial franchise fee ranges from $67,500 to $77,500 for a minimum-sized territory with a population of 150,000. This fee includes $10,000 for training and other pre-opening activities, and another $10,000 for pre-opening materials and other products [p.11]. It is not refundable upon execution of the franchise agreement [p.76].
What are the ongoing royalty and advertising fees?
This isn't specified in the excerpts.
How long is the initial franchise agreement, and can I renew it?
The duration of the initial franchise agreement isn't specified in the excerpts. Regarding renewal, the franchisee must execute Franchisor's then-current form of renewal franchise agreement, which will supersede this Agreement in all respects [p.61].
Can I sell or transfer my franchise, and what does that require?
According to the FDD, a franchisor can refuse to permit the transfer of ownership of a franchise except for good cause. Good cause includes but is not limited to unspecified factors [p.5]. This means you cannot freely sell or transfer your franchise without the franchisor's approval [p.5(g)].
On what grounds can the franchisor terminate the agreement?
The franchisor can terminate the agreement on various grounds including insolvency, abandonment, mutual agreement to terminate, material misrepresentation, legal violation persisting 10 days after notice, repeated breaches, judgment, criminal conviction, failure to pay monies owed to the franchisor more than 5 days past due, and imminent danger to public health or safety. Additionally, the franchisor can provide written notice and a 60-day opportunity to cure for other breaches of the Franchise Agreement [p.157].
What financial requirements — net worth and liquid capital — do I need to qualify?
This isn't specified in the excerpts. The provided FDD sections discuss the franchisor’s financial condition, obligations related to initial investments, and working capital requirements for franchisees, but they do not detail specific net worth or liquid capital requirements for prospective franchisees to qualify.
Do I get an exclusive or protected territory?
This isn't specified in the excerpts. The FDD provides conflicting information; one excerpt suggests an exclusive territory [p.31], while another indicates no exclusive territory and mentions potential competition from other franchisees and company-owned outlets [p.157].
What training and ongoing support does the franchisor provide?
The franchisor provides an initial training program lasting approximately 5 days, which includes subjects covered in the initial training program details. This training is included in the initial franchise fee but requires the franchisee to cover transportation, lodging, and other related costs [p.20]. Additionally, marketing support is provided based on the level selected by the franchisee, with a free Standard level for the first six months of operations, not including renewals [p.64].
How many franchised outlets are there, and how many have closed or been terminated?
The FDD indicates that as of December 31, 2025, there were 17 franchised outlets in Canada. However, the number of closed or terminated outlets is not specified in these excerpts. [p.9]
Does the franchisor share any financial performance or earnings information?
The franchisor may provide actual records of an existing outlet if a franchisee is purchasing one. However, it does not make general financial performance representations and does not authorize its employees or representatives to do so [p.42]. Financial performance information can be shared between the franchisor, its employees, affiliates, and franchisees for specific purposes, but this data must remain confidential [p.73].
What am I restricted to selling, and where must I buy supplies?
You are restricted to selling only the items, products, and services that are on the Approved Products List or have been expressly approved in writing by the franchisor. You must purchase certain equipment, fixtures, and supplies from a supplier designated by the franchisor or one that meets their specifications [p.22]. This includes inventory, marketing materials, and other products used or offered for sale in the business [p.66].