Zoom Room hits milestone in a national expansion
The dog (and dog-owner) training chain on a fast track has reached has signed its 100th franchisee.
With centers in just eight states at the end of 2020, Los Angeles-based Zoom Room this year boasts a presence in 27 states and reports a 70% increase in same-store sales. It’s aiming at nationwide coverage and, for now, has its highest store concentrations in California, Texas, Ohio, and Florida.
The search for new locations and franchisees is focused on all major metros in the U.S. Openings are slated for San Diego, Houston, and New York City’s Chelsea neighborhood.
"Our long-term aspiration is to firmly establish Zoom Room as the premier destination for dog training," said the franchise’s CEO Mark Van Wye. “We're eager to enhance our reputation as a dependable resource for dog owners in the United States and worldwide."
Social engagement, as well as dog training, is part of the customer draw at Zoom Room. Dog owners take part in agility training and obedience classes to build bonds with their dogs and meet other local dog owners.
Zoom Room also offers puppy classes, dog trick training, Doggy Disco, and dog birthday parties at its centers, which range in size from 2,800 to 3,200 sq. ft. Retail shops offer the usual leashes, collars, toys, and grooming tools—but also puzzles, training and travel gear, and raw dog food.
Zoom Room’s aggressiveness is pegged on what it claims is the lowest initial investment offered by any franchise in the nation. Its total franchise cost requires an initial investment of $271,660 to $407,410 and includes three months’ rent, leasehold improvements, inventory, utilities, equipment, and signage.
"With an average EBITDA margin above 30%, Zoom Room's tremendous profitability and growth show no signs of slowing down," said Anthony Polazzi, president of AP Franchised Concepts, the venture capital firm backing Zoom Room.