Learning Express’ affiliate store, opened in September 2016, gives our Home Office buyers, marketers and other staff easy access to the in-store experience and offers a depth to our ability to support franchisees.
In addition, the store allows new franchisees and store managers to gain valuable on-site training before launching their careers with Learning Express Toys.
Here are 5 ways the affiliate store benefits our franchise family:
- Product selection. The Home Office buying team sees how their product selection looks and performs on-site. They use that valuable insight to make better recommendations and more accurate forecasts for franchisees.
- Marketing strategy. The Home Office marketing team tests new marketing strategies on-site and passes the results on to franchisees. All of the affiliate store’s marketing efforts are documented, analyzed and shared, including catalog distribution, in-store signage, social media, community events and more.
- Hands-on training. New franchisees and store managers gain in-store experience when they visit Massachusetts for their training. From interacting with customers to running management reports, trainees find our affiliate store an ideal training ground.
- Constant innovation. The affiliate store gives Home Office staff an outlet to test new programs, from loyalty apps to in-store events to computer software. Successful concepts and practices are shared with the entire franchise family, allowing Learning Express Toys to constantly innovate.
- Insider’s perspective. Our Home Office staff has the opportunity to spend time in the affiliate store, giving them an on-the-ground perspective that translates to enhanced franchisee support.
We can’t wait for you to see our new affiliate store in Bedford, Massachusetts!