WSI ICE
WSI ICE offers full-service digital marketing solutions through regional, national, or international franchises, leveraging 29 years of experience with the WSI Internet Solutions Lifecycle® in the digital marketing industry.
WSI ICE franchise FAQ
How much does it cost to open one — the total initial investment?
The total initial investment necessary to begin operation of a Regional Territory Franchise ranges from $75,900 to $92,100, for a National Territory Franchise it ranges from $80,900 to $97,100, and for an International Territory Franchise, it ranges from $90,900 to $107,100. [p.1]
What is the initial franchise fee?
The initial franchise fee varies based on the type of territory you are applying for. It is $64,700 for a Regional Territory Franchise, $69,700 for a National Territory Franchise, and $79,700 for an International Territory Franchise [p.11]. This fee is not refundable under any circumstances [p.106].
What are the ongoing royalty and advertising fees?
The franchisee must make mandatory minimum royalty payments regardless of sales levels, as stated on [p.4]. There is no specified amount for an ongoing advertising fee; however, the franchisee is required to spend at least $2,000 per calendar month on third-party local marketing and advertising activities within the designated territory, according to [p.125].
How long is the initial franchise agreement, and can I renew it?
The duration of the initial franchise agreement and the terms for renewal are not specified in these excerpts. This isn't specified in the excerpts.
Can I sell or transfer my franchise, and what does that require?
According to [p.136], you cannot transfer or attempt to transfer any part of your Franchised Business to a third party who will operate a similar business but not under the System and the Proprietary Marks, nor under a franchise agreement with the franchisor. This restriction applies both during and after the term of the franchise agreement.
On what grounds can the franchisor terminate the agreement?
This isn't specified in the excerpts.
What financial requirements — net worth and liquid capital — do I need to qualify?
This isn't specified in the excerpts. The FDD does mention the need for adequate financial resources and capital to operate the franchised business [p.134], but it doesn't provide specific details on net worth or liquid capital requirements.
Do I get an exclusive or protected territory?
No, you do not receive an exclusive territory [p.29]. Your territory is non-exclusive, meaning you may face competition from other franchisees, company-owned outlets, or competitive brands controlled by the franchisor [p.7, p.29].
What training and ongoing support does the franchisor provide?
The franchisor provides coaching and assistance in the form of sales support, business operations support, and marketing support from its WSI Home Office team [p.23]. Additionally, franchisees receive ongoing support to build their prospect base, generate client meetings, and drive sales [p.28]. This support is part of a program designed to increase knowledge and confidence for the franchisees [p.28].
How many franchised outlets are there, and how many have closed or been terminated?
This isn't specified in the excerpts.
Does the franchisor share any financial performance or earnings information?
Yes, the franchisor can provide financial performance information under certain conditions. Specifically, they may offer actual records of an existing outlet you are considering purchasing or supplement the information provided in Item 19 with details about a particular location's performance [p.40]. However, the franchisor does not make any financial performance representations beyond what is included in Item 19 and does not authorize its employees or representatives to provide such information orally or in writing [p.43].
What am I restricted to selling, and where must I buy supplies?
You must sell or offer for sale only those Services and products that the franchisor has approved in writing, and you must not deviate from their standards and specifications [p.36]. For proprietary items, you must buy, use, and sell only the required items from approved suppliers [p.112]. Additionally, if you wish to purchase any other products or services from an unapproved supplier, you need to obtain prior written approval from the franchisor [p.111]. There are no restrictions mentioned on where you must buy supplies; however, for proprietary items, they must be purchased from approved suppliers.