Buddy's Home Furnishings is the Best Kept Secret in Franchising

Buddy’s Home Furnishings is one of the fastest growing lease-to-own companies in America and the best kept secret in franchising. Since introducing its franchise model in 2009, Buddy’s has continued to prove itself as a recession-resistant opportunity with tremendous earning potential and great unit economics. 

“In 2021, Buddy’s will celebrate 60 years in business,” said Michael Bennett, CEO at Buddy’s. “Our company has prevailed through every economic environment over the decades and continues to present itself as a recession-resistant franchise opportunity. With families doing more at home on tighter budgets, our lease-to-own model is as essential as ever.”

The company began in 1961 when Buddy’s founder Norman Slatton decided to use his experience in sales at Sears, Roebuck and Co. to pioneer the lease-to-own business with a single aim: to make appliances in a retail setting more affordable.

Norman’s vision came to life that year with Buddy’s Bi-Rite in Tampa, Florida, and it grew into a chain of 43 furniture and appliance stores throughout Georgia and Florida in 25 years. 

Buddy’s has since adopted the franchising model and grown its footprint to approximately 300 stores throughout the U.S. and Guam. Approximately 85% percent of stores are currently franchised locations.

The brand also expanded its product line to include furniture, electronics and home accessories while offering a new program that allows consumers to attain ownership of these goods through affordable payments without the constraints of traditional credit or financing.

“We’re looking for franchisees that want to build a locally owned and community focused business,” said Michael Zagar, director of franchise operations at Buddy’s. “More importantly, we’re seeking candidates that want to become a part of something much bigger than the business itself. We’re looking for franchisees that understand if you take care of your people and your customers first, the success will follow.”

Exclusive and multi-unit territories are available but in high demand. The efficient journey to franchise ownership with Buddy’s is an estimated 6-8 weeks. Throughout the process, and on an ongoing basis, the company’s leadership team leverages its more than 80 years of combined industry experience to support and to advise on operations, marketing, legal, real estate and technology so the franchisee can solely focus on running the business.

“My life was changed over 20 years ago when Buddy’s gave me a chance to drive a truck,” said Chip Guy, vice president of operations and a seasoned Buddy’s franchisee. “I’ve franchised several locations, and now I’m the Vice President of Operations overseeing 60 stores. I made something of myself because of Buddy’s. A lot of people can talk to you about P&L statements and making money, and that’s all a byproduct of what we do, but I truly believe 100 percent in my heart that we change lives at Buddy’s Home Furnishings, and that’s what sets this franchise opportunity apart from others.”

To franchise with Buddy’s, the company requires a minimum net worth of $750,000 and $150,000 of that in liquidity. Multi-unit franchise is desired, but not required. For more information or to start the process of franchising, call Michael Zagar, Director of Franchise Operations, at (813) 321-0416 or visit BuddysFranchising.com. 

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