The Snap-on Tools Group is one of four divisions of Snap-on Inc., serving a world-wide network of over 4,700 franchises as of August 2011. Of those, a little over 3,200 are in the U.S., and almost 350 are in Canada. An additional 900-plus franchises are located in other countries, and almost 240 are company-owned. The company, headquartered in Kenosha, Wisconsin, makes and markets power tools, hand tools and other equipment for professional workmanship. Franchise owners make weekly rounds, driving "mobile tool stores" -- trucks loaded with products -- directly to car dealerships, garages and other businesses that make up the company's customer base.
Snap-on Tools franchises typically are not housed in storefront operations, as franchise owners take their products directly to their customers. Some franchises are operated out of owners' homes. Franchise owners report a broad range of total investment, ranging from roughly $18,000 to almost $290,000. Franchise fees range from $5,000 to $15,000, and the company requires an ongoing royalty fee of $102 per month. Typically, franchise owners sign up for 10-year, renewable agreements with Snap-on.
Snap-on helps new franchise owners put together a grand opening, and it offers training that includes three weeks at the franchisee's location and an additional week at one of Snap-on's regional centers. Snap-on also maintains ongoing contact with franchises through a newsletter, regular meetings, telephone and Internet.
Entrepreneur Magazine placed Snap-on at No. 24 on its Franchise 500 ranking for 2011 of the best U.S.-based companies with which to start a franchise. The company ranked No. 7 on the magazine's list of top home-based franchises, and No. 22 on its list of top global franchises.
Snap-on has provided a handy way to determine whether franchise owners are delivering in your area. See the Resources section for a link. Also, to learn more about Snap-on Tools, you may write the company at 2801 80th Street, Kenosha, WI, 53143, or call 877-476-2766.
