American Poolplayers Franchise FDD, Profits & Costs (2025)
The American Poolplayers Association (APA) is the world’s largest amateur pool league, boasting over 250,000 members across the United States, Canada, Japan, and Singapore. Founded in 1981 by professional pool players Terry Bell and Larry Hubbart, the organization has grown exponentially, offering structured league play and tournaments in both eight-ball and nine-ball formats.
The APA is headquartered in Lake St. Louis, Missouri. Shortly after its inception, the APA began franchising its league operations in 1982, allowing local entrepreneurs to manage and promote leagues in their respective territories.
This franchising model has been instrumental in expanding the APA’s reach, with leagues now operating in over 13,000 venues across North America. The association’s proprietary handicapping system, “The Equalizer,” enables players of varying skill levels to compete on an even playing field, embodying the organization’s motto: “Everyone Can Play – Anyone Can Win!”
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Initial Investment
How much does it cost to start a American Poolplayers Association franchise? It costs on average between $22,000 – $31,000 to start a American Poolplayers Association franchised facility.
This includes costs for setting up league operations, acquiring necessary equipment, marketing expenses, and initial operating costs. The exact amount depends on various factors, including the size of the territory, local market conditions, and whether the franchisee operates from a home office or a leased commercial space.
| Type of Expenditure | Amount |
|---|---|
| Initial Franchise Fee | $10,000 – $14,000 |
| Equipment/Computer Software and Hardware | $2,120 – $5,804 |
| Broadband Internet Access | $300 for 3 months |
| Training Seminar I Expenses | $1,824 – $2,724 |
| Real Estate & Improvements | $0 |
| Initial Inventory | $0 |
| Insurance | $692.22 |
| Attorney/Accountant Fees | $4,000 |
| Additional Funds – 3 months | $3,000 |
| Total Estimated Initial Investment | $21,936 – $30,520 |
Average Revenue (AUV)
How much revenue can you make with a American Poolplayers Association franchise? A American Poolplayers Association franchised center makes on average $168,000 in revenue (AUV) per year.
This compares to $236,000 yearly revenue for other recreation franchises. Below are a few American Poolplayers Association competitors as a comparison:
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American Poolplayers Association Franchise Disclosure Document
Frequently Asked Questions
How many American Poolplayers Association locations are there?
As of the latest data, the American Poolplayers Association (APA) operates 357 franchise units across the United States, reflecting a 6.3% growth over the past three years.
The APA does not own any company-operated locations; all leagues are managed by independent franchisees. These franchisees oversee local league operations, contributing to the APA’s extensive network that includes over 250,000 members and more than 13,000 host venues.
What is the total investment required to open a American Poolplayers Association franchise?
The total investment required to open a American Poolplayers Association franchise ranges from $22,000 to $31,000.
What are the ongoing fees for a American Poolplayers Association franchise?
American Poolplayers Association franchisees pay a royalty fee of 20% of the basic weekly fee charged to each team. They may also contribute up to 5% of their gross revenue toward advertising, depending on the approved marketing plan for their area.
What are the financial requirements to become a American Poolplayers Association franchisee?
To become an American Poolplayers Association (APA) franchisee, candidates are required to have a minimum liquid capital of $12,000. The initial franchise fee ranges from $10,000 to $12,000, depending on the population of the designated territory.
How much can a American Poolplayers Association franchise owner expect to earn?
The average gross sales for a American Poolplayers Association franchise are approximately $0.17 million per location. Assuming a 15% operating profit margin, $0.17 million yearly revenue can result in $26,000 EBITDA annually.
Who owns American Poolplayers Association?
The American Poolplayers Association (APA) franchise is owned by its co-founders, professional pool players Terry Bell and Larry Hubbart, who established the organization in 1979.
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