Foot Solutions is at the beginning of its life cycle and focuses mainly on the Baby Boomer market niche. Through our customized body aligning foot supports and attractive shoe lines designed to fit and properly support your feet we can literally change your life. We are a specialty retailer with great hours, high margins and no major direct competitors.
BTB: How and when did you become involved with Foot Solutions franchise?
Ray Margiano: I started working and testing my Foot Solutions concept in the mid nineties and opened our first franchise in August 2000 in Atlanta, GA.
I left the corporate world in 1984 and started my first business Heel Quik, which I franchised – and opened over 700 operations in 34 countries by 2000.
BTB: What are some of the advantages in being a Foot Solutions franchisee?
RM: We have a unique, extensive training program. Our in store experience and technology sets us apart from most retailers, and is appreciated by our customers. We have our own lab making a number of unique custom foot support products. Our group purchasing provides direct savings of 5 to 20% from over 15 vendors. We have a unique way to market to very selective customer niches that is effective and low cost.
BeTheBoss.ca: Tell us about the Foot Solutions franchise concept.
RM:Our concept is about making people feel good and solving their problems or issues. Being a good listener and following the Foot Solutions system and solution matrix is the the key to being a successful franchisee.
We focus on the 45-65 year old customer. That is the age that most people start noticing changes in their body, but still want to do the things they could do when they were younger. We have a non-invasive holistic approach that can solve and correct many of these issues with their feet and body alignment.
BTB: What are some of the advantages in being a Foot Solutions franchisee?
RM: We like to keep an open door for franchisees to not only be part of our success but also to contribute. Many of our franchisees have unique backgrounds and experience. We want their input and like to keep them involved with everything we are doing.
BTB: Do you have a mentor and is their someone you use for inspiration?
RM: I have a number of mentors and a close circle of associates, that are very successful in the business and franchising world, that I meet with monthly. My inspiration is my Dad, he is first generation Italian/USA and he had a garage that I worked in since I was 10 years old. Those early years probably influenced me the most in starting my own business and having a very strong work ethic.
BTB: What advice do you have for someone looking to acquire a franchise?
RM: Going into business for yourself is a big decision. A franchise system allows you to take some of the pressure off, but also will create some restrictions. You want to feel comfortable with the business model. You also want to feel comfortable with the financial model. At the end of the day you want to make a good investment that has the capability to grow and to help you achieve your goals.
BTB: In your opinion, why do you think that Foot Solutions franchise would be a great opportunity for someone?
RM: Foot Solutions is a great opportunity for someone that wants to give something back, help people but at the same time be a successful business. We have great hours, low labor requirements, and great profit potential. An open discussion about your goals and objectives would be the next step in determining if this is a business you should consider.
