Aracely Melendez first heard about Express Employment Professionals the way many people do: She was laid off. After 18 years as a project manager, her job was eliminated as part of corporate downsizing. Faced with an unexpected life change, Aracely began to think about what was next. “Having a business was always a goal after I completed my MBA in 2001,” she says. A longtime friend who was also a franchise broker introduced her to Express. “I was intrigued by Express because it provided the ability to operate at a local level while still having support from a large, healthy international corporate business model,” says Aracely.
Coming from a project management role, Aracely had business skills but she didn’t have staffing industry-specific knowledge. Thanks to strong support from Express, she didn’t need it.
Support throughout the entire ownership journey
As one of the best staffing franchise opportunities, Express is known for the award-winning support it provides Franchise Owners. “The franchisor support was critical for my peace of mind and my future success,” says Aracely.
The Express training program has received an incredible 98% satisfaction rating from participants. New Franchise Owners receive four weeks of initial training, including a week of in-person training at Express International Headquarters in Oklahoma and one week of on-the-job training in their new franchise location. Ongoing training opportunities are also available, including:
- Annual leadership conference
- Regional sales and education summits
- Live and virtual training events
Reflecting on the ownership process, Aracely says, “Express is transparent and provides the information needed to help individuals make informed decisions.”
A purpose-driven business model
In addition to the strong support offered to franchisees, Aracely was drawn to Express because of its culture and the purpose of the business, which is to match job seekers with the best job for their level of skill and experience. The average Express office places 600 people a year, making a true difference in the community that it serves. This opportunity to positively impact the lives of others is something that is frequently mentioned by Express Franchise Owners and a reason they feel it is one of the best staffing franchise opportunities. “There is a mission and vision behind Express, and you know you’re part of that,” says Aracely.
Better work-life balance
Unlike franchise opportunities in other industries, Express offices are open traditional business hours. This gives Franchise Owners the opportunity to own their schedule and find time for the things that are truly important to them. “This has been a life-changing experience,” Aracely says. “It has provided me the opportunity for flexibility with my family commitments, it has provided me with the financial support I was looking for as a single parent and it allows me to continue my passion to help individuals.”
How much does an Express franchise cost?
Financially, you can expect to make an initial investment of $132K to $213K to open an Express office, including a franchise fee of $40K. You should also have a net worth of at least $250K and access to liquid capital of $200K, plus 12 months of living expenses in savings.
On a personal level, you should be willing to work hands-on in your new business. This isn’t a concept for absentee owners. And although you don’t need any staffing experience, people who are outgoing, natural leaders with a background in sales or client services tend to do well as Franchise Owners.
“It’s a lot of work but the payoff goes well with what I was looking for in this phase of my life and career,” says Aracely. “After looking for a franchise for three years, I immediately knew this one was the right fit for me and, most importantly, my children.”
Ready to learn more about the Express opportunity?
Like Aracely, you don’t need any previous staffing experience to own an Express franchise. We’re looking for highly motivated people that are ready to do the hands-on work needed to build their business with the support of the top staffing franchise behind them. If you have that dream and the desire to make it happen, we want to hear from you. Fill out the form below to connect with one of our Franchise Development Directors.