June is a very sunny month, here in the US. That's your hint.
So, who is June's "Franchise Of The Month?"
I have a thought provoking question for you.
How do you "franchise" the sun?
Solar Universe is how. They have it figured out.
How is it possible to harness the sun's awesome energy, and transform it into a sustainable business model? A business model that very well could be more than suitable for franchising.
Here are some interesting facts about solar power:
- A well designed solar system needs clear access to the sun with limited or no shading issues.
- Solar Panels come with a 25 year warranty. {From Solar Universe}
- Any power that you don't use from your solar electric system literally spins your meter backwards, and you receive a credit from your utility company. This is called "net metering".
So, that's how you do it, huh? Well, yes.......
The folks at Solar Universe, this month's "Franchise of The Month," really seem to get it.
Those of you who have been following me for a while know of my extremely skeptical personality.Those of who who have not subscribed to this blog, yet, please know that I am..well..see for yourself.
Anyway, please subscribe, and add to your franchise IQ. {It's free!}
When I first talked to Joe Bono, the COO of Solar Universe, I was immediately impressed. He is just like me. Energetic. Sarcastic. Funny. And real serious about the business model of franchising. He has assembled a 1st Class team. He also knows who he wants as franchise owners.
{Future franchisors. Pay attention.}
He told me that the franchisees must have outgoing personalities, and a lot of energy. {Not Solar energy!} He seems to know that a lot of prospective franchise owners may be terrific, well meaning people that also happen to have a passion for all things green. But it is just not enough.
Solar energy is fairly new. Prospective customers need to become educated. Solar systems can be a significant expense up-front. {They can also pay for themselves rapidly, depending on the geographical area, and several other factors which can vary from location to location.} Franchisees of Solar Universe will have to be able to sell. You heard it right. They must have superior sales skills.
When I discuss the "S" word with my prospective franchise candidates, I don't necessarily want to see formal sales training or experience on their resume's. If they are outgoing, and personable, I am usually comfortable presenting opportunities in franchising that involve a sales element. {As long as they say they are comfortable with that}
So a lot of sales activity will be part of this franchise opportunity.
Solar energy is a very popular topic. There a lot of people who are passionate about our environment, and green energy. Are some of them capable of selling? Probably. But I'll wager that some are not going to be right for this franchise.
Coincidentally, I just wrote a column over at OPEN FORUM By American Express, in which I discussed the green movement in franchising, and what one needs to think about before embarking on their personal mission to help our planet, and involve themselves with the business side of things.
Anyway, in February of this year I interviewed Joe Bono, and just in case you missed it, you can read it here. He discussed the Solar Universe opportunity.
The folks at Solar Universe just introduced something that is really cutting edge. How would you like to learn how to install Solar Panels? Solar University was just launched, and now you can attend a hands-on class. Just mention you heard about it from The Franchise King! Info
Solar Universe. June's "Franchise of The Month." Go Joe!
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Thats an awesome business model... "green" thinking too which appeals in the current climate.
Have bookmarked your blog.. thanks!
Posted by: Franchise UK | June 03, 2009 at 06:17 AM