FAQs
MAACO utilizes a strategic software mapping solution as part of its site approval process. We are typically looking to place a location with a Core Based Statistical Area (CBSA) demographic base of 100,000 people. As the franchisor, we will always look to protect existing centers and will develop in markets that make sense for you, us and, of course, our existing franchisees. There is plenty of opportunity for growth in nearly every major market.
Please click on one of the questions below to learn more.
What are the financial qualifications to become a MAACO franchisee?
- $90,000 liquid assets (cash)
- $250,000 net worth
- Credit score of at least 700
What is the total investment?
The total minimum investment for a new MAACO franchisee is up to $296,500.
How much money can I make?
Our certified franchisees average $973,000 in annual store revenues. For those franchisees whose sales exceed $1 million, annual earnings are just over $165,000. See our item 19 in the Franchise Disclosure Documents for complete details.
What are the royalties and advertising contributions?
The royalty fees are eight percent of the gross receipts of the center when in compliance with the franchise agreement.
Is financing available to open a MAACO center?
Yes, financing is available for qualified buyers. For those who can meet the $90,000 cash investment and have a net worth of at least $250,000, we have been able to help with the rest of the investment more than 95 percent of the time. There are many ways franchisees finance transactions including, but not limited to, cash, SBA loans, home equity lines of credit, equipment leasing, seller financing (conversions), borrowed funds and 401k Rollovers. MAACO has relationships with a number of financial partners for you to consider.
What is the term of the franchise?
The term of the MAACO auto body franchise ownership is 15 years, which is renewable in five-year options.
What kind of training and support does MAACO provide?
Four weeks of hands-on training is provided to new franchise owners at our Corporate Headquarters in King of Prussia, PA. Franchisees will receive instruction on sales, management, production and customer service procedures during this time. Three weeks of on-the-job training for both franchise owners and employees will be provided once the new center is open. Six to 12 months of new MAACO center development oversight and ongoing training and development will be continuously provided. An annual conference is held each year.
What type of marketing support will I receive?
Our in-house national advertising agency, Printz Advertising, assists franchisees in production and placement of:
- Nationally recognized television and radio ads
- Internet ads
- Yellow page ads
- Center design and point-of-purchase merchandising
- Monthly reconciliation
What assistance will MAACO provide for the real estate selection?
MAACO will provide franchisees with site selection assistance, lease negotiation assistance, Internet ads, construction assistance and equipment installation. In the event of a conversion, we will assist you in finding existing centers for sale in your designated area. Regardless of how you choose to open, our staff is ready willing and able to assist in all aspects of your transaction. Once you become a franchisee, our real estate managers will visit your market to start the process. Our goal is to find you at least three approvable locations within the first 90 days.
What is the franchise approval process?
- Provide a confidential application
- Application approval by Franchisor
- Review the Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD)
- Conduct your due diligence
- Talk to Franchisees
- Talk to our Operations Team
- Face to Face Meeting at our office or your market
- Complete agreement
- Execute Franchise Agreement
Are franchisees required to have an automotive background?
No automotive experience is necessary; we teach you everything there is to know.
What special skills are required?
MAACO is looking for candidates that possess:
- Sales aptitude
- Financial management skills
- Managerial experience
- High motivation and a strong desire to succeed
- Willingness to follow a proven system
- Ability to personally devote the time and effort necessary to build, manage and supervise a MAACO center.
What is the availability of sites and territory in my area of interest?
Today there are plenty of opportunities available throughout the United States. Your Franchise Development manager will research your area of choice and identify any and all approvable markets.
What are MAACO’s real estate site criteria?
MAACO targets areas with 100,000 registered vehicles, an average footprint of 7,000 feet and our shops are in retail-friendly locations.
Do I have to buy inventory from you?
Absolutely not. However, our buying power is so strong that more than 90 percent of our dealers buy from us each and every year.
As long as you're a people person and not afraid to manage, you can direct your personnel and you can talk to customers, the technical stuff that happens on the cars is not really as important as it is as letting everybody know what you want to do in the shop and also communicating with your customers. I think the training you get at the home office is key to the sales end of it and they also teach you the technical part of it and what you need to know.
