HOW DID YOU GET INTO THE INDUSTRY?
I began importing baskets from the Philippines almost 40 years ago. That led to other handicrafts and eventually a job with a large importer of opening price point home and garden décor. After some time, I felt there was an opportunity for better home and garden décor at reasonable pricing. I began sourcing and importing better home accessories and wholesaling to independent retailers across the country. The landlord for my warehouse approached me with an available retail location and I jumped in. It was quite a learning curve, but after a few years we found our way and have developed a successful model. In 2021 we opened our second store, and today both stores have become “destination shops” in their community and surrounding area. We decided to franchise due to limitations on our side for handling more units, but feel there is a big opportunity out there.
WHAT’S NEW IN THE NEST HOME DECOR BUSINESS MODEL OR IN THE FRANCHISE MODEL?
There has been a big shift in the home décor business since Covid. Big Box retail chains have struggled, and independent retailers have done well, especially those that are doing it right. It’s not hard to beat the ‘big guys’ in this category if you know what to do, and this is where we excel. We give the support needed and teach the tricks to succeed today in Home Décor.
WHERE DO YOU SEE OPPORTUNITIES OR CHALLENGES FOR THE NEST HOME DECOR FRANCHISE/BUSINESS MOVING FORWARD?
There has been a big increase on focusing on HOME over the last few years, and it’s not going away anytime soon. The opportunity is there to provide customers a local option for reasonably priced home décor that’s well curated. The challenge is knowing what to buy, where to buy it, how to market it, etc…all of which we are here to provide coaching on.
WHAT IS THE GOAL FOR THE BUSINESS MOVING FORWARD?
Our goal is to open franchises in underserved markets, offering a wonderful opportunity for consumers to improve their quality of life at home without breaking the bank.
TALK TO US ABOUT TRAINING AND SUPPORT, HOW DO YOU DELIVER?
We offer on site training at our home office and 2 retail store models. There is also training on the franchisee’s site both before and after opening. Once open, we have constant support available and coaching to ensure success.
YOUR MOST DIFFICULT MOMENT AT THE FRANSCHISE BUSINESS?
Our most difficult time was when we were building our staff. Holding onto good people is KEY. We found it best to recruit employees from our customer base, they already had the passion.
DEFINE YOUR FRANCHISE MODEL:
We offer onsite and virtual training, and coaching which is key. Training, for all aspects of the business…support, we are here when you need us…coaching, creative ideas and approaches to the business.
The fee structure is clearly explained in our marketing materials, AND the upfront Franchise Fee can easily be recovered in the first 2-3 years in the deep discount offered by the largest vendor.
Each Franchisee is protected so that there is no worry of another Nest Franchise opening in close proximity. We also are on the watch for other retailers that could be of concern.
A day in the life of a Franchisee is busy, and full of varying tasks…there is always something to do. You spend your day dealing with people, and surrounded by products that enhance your life. Everyday offers new challenges, and engagements that keep life interesting. There is of course the business side of things, but with our training and support it will go smoothly as long as you keep on top of it.
WHAT DOES YOUR FRANCHISEE DO IN THE BUSINESS EVERY DAY?
Most importantly, they tend to their customers wants and needs, offering a welcoming environment to shop and connect in. They allocate time for buying, receiving, accounting, opening and closing, staffing, etc. You wear many hats during the day…the most important being personalized customer care that the Big Box stores are not able to provide.
WHO IS THE IDEAL FRANCHISE CANDIDATE FOR A NEST HOME DECOR FRANCHISE LOCATION?
Our ideal candidate is a person passionate about home décor, good with people, but a bit unsure of how to go about opening their own store and trying to navigate their way in this industry.
SUCCESS STORIES AND FAILURES WITH FRANCHISEES?
Just starting, no track record yet but looking forward to a group of very successful members of our Franchise Family. Our focus as a franchise system is to sell and duplicate success, we want great partners who are thankful to have joined us and look back on their decision to become part of the Nest Home Decor franchise system as one of the best decisions they’ve ever made.
WHAT GOALS DO YOU HAVE FOR THE NEST HOME DECOR FRANCHISE MODEL IN THE FUTURE?
We look forward to having a group of very satisfied store owners, all sharing our passion for this industry, and providing them with a rewarding financial opportunity.
For more information on the Nest Home Decor Franchise System, visit the franchise site: