The Scout Guide Franchise FDD, Profits & Costs (2025)
The Scout Guide is a woman-founded national franchise that offers an elevated advertising experience to local businesses through its printed city guides and digital channels. Founded in 2010 by Susie Matheson and Christy Ford in Charlottesville, Virginia, the company has expanded to over 90 cities across the United States.
The Scout Guide began franchising in 2013, providing a platform for local entrepreneurs to support and promote small businesses within their communities.
The franchise specializes in producing high-quality, locally curated guides that showcase independently owned businesses in various categories, including design and decor, travel, style and beauty, entertaining, and living. These guides are distributed free to households in exclusive territories defined by agreements with franchisees.
What sets The Scout Guide apart from its competitors is its commitment to community building and its focus on highlighting the people and faces behind local businesses. Franchisees are encouraged to be community ambassadors, fostering connections between small business owners and residents.
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Initial Investment
How much does it cost to start a The Scout Guide franchise? It costs on average between $137,000 – $246,000 to start a The Scout Guide franchised facility.
This includes costs for materials, marketing, and initial operational expenses. The exact amount depends on various factors, including the size and location of the territory, the local market conditions, and whether the franchisee opts for a leased or owned office space.
| Type of Expenditure | Amount |
|---|---|
| Initial Franchise Fee | $50,000 |
| Furniture, Fixtures, and Equipment | $0 – $1,000 |
| Computers and Software | $1,000 – $3,000 |
| Insurance | $500 – $1,000 |
| Professional Fees | $3,000 – $5,000 |
| Technology Fee | $2,100 |
| Business Licenses and Permits | $500 – $1,000 |
| Photography | $12,000 – $54,800 |
| Production | $15,500 – $24,000 |
| Printing and Shipping | $35,000 – $80,000 |
| Distribution | $10,000 – $12,000 |
| Additional Funds-90 days | $7,000 – $12,000 |
| TOTAL | $136,600 – $245,900 |
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The Scout Guide Franchise Disclosure Document
Frequently Asked Questions
How many The Scout Guide locations are there?
As of the latest data, The Scout Guide has over 90 locations, with all of them being franchise-owned.
What is the total investment required to open a The Scout Guide franchise?
The total investment required to open a The Scout Guide franchise ranges from $137,000 to $246,000.
What are the ongoing fees for a The Scout Guide franchise?
The ongoing fees for a The Scout Guide franchise include an 8% royalty fee and a 2% marketing fee, both based on gross revenue. These fees support brand development and marketing efforts.
What are the financial requirements to become a The Scout Guide franchisee?
To become a The Scout Guide franchisee, the minimum net worth requirement is $200,000, and the minimum liquid capital requirement is $50,000. These financial requirements ensure that franchisees have the necessary resources to successfully invest in and operate their franchise, covering initial expenses and maintaining ongoing operations.
Who owns The Scout Guide?
The Scout Guide franchise is owned by Susie Matheson and Christy Ford, who co-founded the company in 2010.
Disclaimer
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