BE YOUR OWN BOSS
AND PART OF THE PHENOMENON THAT EMPLOYS
MORE THAN EIGHT MILLION PEOPLE

How Franchising Systems Allow Small Business Owners to Be Their Own Bosses –
and Still Have Marketing Departments, Operation Teams, Real Estate Divisions, Ongoing Educational
Programs, On-Site Training, Distribution Power and Grand Opening Extravaganzas

Minneapolis, MN –– The International Franchise Association estimates that one of every 12 retail businesses in the U.S. is part of a franchised network. They have also found that franchising contributes an estimated $1.5 trillion to the U.S. economy and employs over eight million people. The franchise phenomenon isn’t just in the United States; it covers more than 75 industries and 100 countries around the world.

It seems that many people see the value of franchising – being one’s own boss with a built-in system of support. The people flocking to franchising vary from teachers to executives who have been recently laid off and are looking to make a new start in a new industry. According to the 2009 Economic Outlook report by the International Franchise Association, while franchising faces economic challenges similar to other industries, industry leaders are cautiously optimistic. They’ve found that well-established brands and the entrepreneurial spirit of franchisees will take advantage of opportunities during periods of economic uncertainty.
     
Be Your Own Boss – With a Built-In Support System. “I’m convinced there is no better business format available than franchising for those who want to be in business for themselves, but not by themselves,” said International Franchise Association President Matthew Shay. “In today’s challenging economic environment, starting out with a proven system, lots of support and training, plus knowing you can turn to fellow franchisees for guidance is a much greater choice than trying to start a business from square one. Plus you get instant brand recognition, high visibility and the comfort of knowing that others have succeeded using the same model you’re buying.”
     
More and more business people are exploring franchising as an option; some look to it after leaving a corporate position while others see it as a path towards an economic future for their family. And, many realize that owning their own business can be a long-term asset, and in time, it may pay off as a part of a retirement plan.  With almost 10,000 more locations than its nearest competitor, Minnesota-based Regis Corporation (NYSE:RGS), the largest owner, operator and franchisor of hair and retail product salons and beauty schools in the world, offers a successful, proven system for people investigating franchise opportunities. On behalf of its franchisees, the multi-national, $4 billion company has the power to negotiate critical items including real estate, products and marketing – all vital in an industry that has to offer cutting-edge style, design and convenience. To ensure the continued success of franchisees, Regis Corporation (Regis Corp.) also provides ongoing state-of-theart stylist education, operations and mentoring programs to help owners navigate the roads of business.
     
Regis Corp. is expanding six of its franchise concepts in the United States. Supercuts, one of the franchise concepts geared to men, pioneered the concept of the affordable haircut over 30 years ago. Today, over 2,130 Supercuts salons perform three million haircuts every month in 1,000 cities across North America.
     
Ensure the Parent Company is Strong. When looking into a franchise, scout out a concept and company for the best chance at a good return on investment. The hair-care industry has an ongoing opportunity - everyone needs a haircut. Analysts – and existing franchisees – recommend that anyone looking for a franchise investment opportunity study the parent company’s resources and efficiencies.
     
Regis Corp. has a reliable business model as customers return for haircuts during both good and bad times; and Regis is unique because they have segmented the marketplace by developing concepts to serve all niches. The higher end is covered with Vidal Sassoon and Carlton, while value concepts like MasterCuts, Supercuts and Cost Cutters continue to expand.
     
Where to Find Support and Resources. A franchisee purchases not only the use of the trademarked brand of a franchise, but also resources such as marketing, training and real estate support. Yet many find the community of people inside the franchise one of the greatest assets of their investment.
     
While franchisees rely heavily on each other for advice, ideas and solutions; parent companies must offer resources. Regis Corp. offers a structure that includes an annual $20 million commitment to education and stylist training, which ensures customers are getting the latest in hair care and styles. The franchisees also have access to award-winning educational DVDs and nationwide seminars.
     
Most franchisees will say it’s all about location, location, location. In these challenging economic times, the assets of a big company are helpful – especially when you’re just starting out as a franchisee. A national-credit tenant, Regis Corp.’s real estate department supports franchisees every step of the way, choosing salon locations in high-traffic regional malls and open-air centers.
     
The Future. Industry experts believe the 78 million aging baby boomers will contribute to the growing hair-care market as they continue to look for youth-enhancing tools such as hair coloring. Supercuts and Cost Cutters franchisees are in a position to meet the needs of each boomer as well as their families and friends. For more information on franchising, visit www.regisfranchise.com.

Regis Corporation
www.regiscorp.com
7201 Metro Boulevard
Edina, MN 55439
PRESS CONTACT: Susan Evans, Evans Larson, (612) 338-6999
E-mail: susan@evanslarson.com