Q&A with Kiddie Academy Husband-Wife Franchisees Preeti and Vic Gulati

Name: Preeti and Vic Gulati
Title: Multi-Site Franchise Educational Childcare Operators
Brands: Kiddie Academy
Units: 4
Years in franchising: 12

Why did you choose to franchise with a service brand?

We chose to franchise with a service brand because we wanted to build something that was both mission-driven and scalable, and something close to our hearts. We looked for several key qualities when choosing a childcare franchise brand, including strong brand recognition, proven systems, operational support, and shared learning. We also still wanted to have the ability to personalize our family, personal, and financial needs. For us, franchising was not about following a perfect formula. It was about aligning with a brand that shared our values and provided personal freedom and growth while supporting our long-term vision of leaving a positive impact on our communities.

How did you choose the sector and brand you did?

Education and early childhood development were a natural fit for us as parents. Preeti was a school psychologist and has spent her career advocating for and working with young children. We understood firsthand how critical the early years are through raising our three young children and wanted to be part of something that truly shapes futures.

What ultimately set Kiddie Academy apart for us was not just the curriculum or the business model, but the people behind the brand. Kiddie Academy has been a family-owned business since 1981, and that family-first mindset remains deeply embedded in the organization today, resonating strongly with our values as franchise operators.

From the very beginning, we had the opportunity to meet the founder, Mike Miller, along with his son Casey and his growing family, and we immediately felt that this was different. There was authenticity, humility, and a genuine commitment to doing the right thing for franchisees, families, and children. Nearly 14 years later, that initial impression has only grown stronger for both of us. The leadership continues to meet us, support us, develop us, and impress us to this day. The consistency and integrity of this family-led brand meant everything to us.

What different skill sets are required for franchising with a service brand?

Franchising with a service brand requires far more than business knowledge. It requires compassion and the ability to stay grounded in caring for each child the way you would want your own child to be cared for, nurtured, and educated. Leading by example is essential, along with strong people leadership, emotional intelligence, operational discipline, and the ability to build trust with both families and staff. We strive to balance these elements alongside sound business acumen. Success comes from coaching leaders, developing teams, solving problems in real time, and maintaining compliance, all while protecting the culture and quality that are rooted in your core values and foundational vision.

What are the advantages of choosing a service brand?

A service brand offers instant credibility, brand recognition, and access to best practices that would otherwise take years to develop independently, all while aligning with our vision. We benefit from shared systems, centralized support, and a collaborative franchise network. With the Kiddie Academy brand specifically, you also gain leadership and departments that truly listen and take action. We have enjoyed watching how Kiddie Academy corporate has evolved over the years, expanding to more than 360 locations while remaining firmly rooted in its core values, which has been incredibly impressive.

What are some keys to being able to operate multiple franchises at the same time?

Operating multiple franchises requires intentional investment in capable directors, clearly defined expectations, and empowered leaders who can make decisions with confidence and accountability across multiple roles. Successfully scaling and empowering teams means shifting from managing tasks to developing people; letting go of daily micromanagement and focusing on culture, systems, and long-term strategy.

Consistency across locations is critical, but so is trust: trust in your teams, trust in your processes, and trust in the shared values that guide decision-making. Open communication, data-informed oversight, and a commitment to leadership development allow each location to thrive while remaining aligned as one organization.

What are some of the top ways in which you have been able to market and promote your business?

Our most effective marketing has always been rooted in community and authenticity. Grassroots efforts, actively participating in local events, school and community partnerships, referrals, and building genuine relationships with families have been our strongest drivers of growth. In a service-based business, reputation is everything, and word of mouth carries tremendous weight.

We also prioritize a thoughtful digital presence and intentional storytelling that highlights our people, our school culture, and the everyday impact our schools make through social media platforms. Additionally, we love cross-marketing and partnering with small businesses that share a similar mindset to create meaningful impact within our communities. When families feel seen, supported, and valued, they naturally become your strongest advocates.

What would you recommend to anyone considering a service brand?

Always choose a brand that aligns with your values, and not just your financial goals. A service brand requires heart, resilience, and a willingness to be deeply involved, especially in the early stages of learning and operations. Success ultimately comes through yourself and your people: how you lead them, support them, and grow them. Invest in leadership development, remain adaptable, and commit to continuous improvement. Above all, remember that long-term success in a service business is built on your personal journey and the personal goals that drive your vision.