Made in the Shade Franchise
Audited FinancialsRisk Score
Pending analysis
Investment Range
$78,000 - $107,700
Franchise Fee
$67,500
Total US Locations
99
Business Summary
Made in the Shade Blinds and More operates businesses that specialize in the sale and distribution of window covering products. These businesses operate under the 'Made in the Shade Blinds & More' brand and system, offering window covering and outdoor products to customers, primarily homeowners.
Corporate History
Made in the Shade Blinds and More LLC was organized as a Texas limited liability company on May 1, 2012. Before its formation, its principal operated a sole proprietorship using the name 'Made in the Shade Blinds and More'. The company began offering franchises on January 31, 2013.
Financial Overview
Investment Range
$78,000 - $107,700
Franchise Fee (Low)
$67,500
Franchise Fee (High)
$186,000
Equipment Costs (Low)
$100
Equipment Costs (High)
$3,000
Working Capital
$3,500
Audited Financials
Yes
Offers Financing
Yes
Audit Opinion
Unqualified opinion
Financial Health Notes
Made in the Shade Blinds and More LLC appears to be in sound financial health. The company reported positive net income of $1,198,200 in 2024 and $1,319,684 in 2023. Made in the Shade Blinds and More LLC also maintains substantial working capital, with $2,671,187 in 2024 and $1,181,445 in 2023, indicating a strong ability to cover its short-term liabilities. Cash balances were $2,656,256 in 2024, a significant increase from $1,452,827 in 2023. Although the company had negative members' equity in 2023, it returned to a positive equity position in 2024. The independent auditor provided an unqualified opinion on the financial statements and did not raise concerns about the company's ability to continue as a going concern.
Financing Details
Made in the Shade Blinds and More offers financing for the initial franchise fee, subject to credit approval. Franchisees can finance up to 80% of the initial franchise fee, with a minimum down payment of 20% or $20,000, whichever is greater. The interest rate is the Secured Overnight Financing Rate (SOFR) plus 3%, with a maximum repayment period of 24 months. This financing is secured by a personal guarantee and a security agreement. For example, a $50,000 loan at 7% APR over 24 months would have a monthly payment of approximately $2,239. Made in the Shade Blinds and More does not guarantee any other notes, leases, or obligations for the franchisee.
Performance Metrics
Total US Locations
99
Franchised Units
99
Corporate Units
0
Franchising Since
2013
Legal & Compliance Analysis
Recent Litigation
No
Bankruptcy
No
Litigation Summary
Made in the Shade Blinds and More has no litigation history to report. The company or its management have not been involved in any material litigation proceedings that are required to be disclosed.
Bankruptcy History
Made in the Shade Blinds and More has no bankruptcy information to disclose. Neither the franchisor nor its management have been involved in any bankruptcy proceedings.
Agreement Terms
Initial Term
10 years
Renewal Term
10 years
Renewal Conditions
To renew their franchise, Made in the Shade Blinds and More franchisees must provide written notice between 6 and 9 months before their current term ends. They must also renovate and modernize their office, computer, and software systems to meet current brand standards, not be in default of any agreements, and have paid all financial obligations. Franchisees are required to sign the franchisor's then-current renewal franchise agreement, which may have different terms, and pay a $6,000 renewal fee. Additionally, they must execute a general release of claims and comply with current qualification and training requirements.
Training & Support Program
Franchisor Assistance
Before opening, Made in the Shade Blinds and More provides franchisees with access to its operations manuals, an Approved Products List, and a list of designated suppliers, along with an initial inventory of sample products. The franchisor also conducts an initial training program. On an ongoing basis, Made in the Shade Blinds and More provides marketing, technology, and accounting support, with basic levels of each required after the initial 6-month free period for standard or premium levels. The franchisor offers advice and written materials on managing and operating the business, including sales strategy and new developments. It also provides recommendations on pricing, an updated Approved Products List, and may hold an optional annual conference for franchisees to discuss developments and exchange information. Franchisees are responsible for their own expenses when attending any training or conferences.
Initial Training Hours
58
Training Location
San Antonio, Texas
Ongoing Support
After opening, Made in the Shade Blinds and More provides continuing support services including marketing, technology, and accounting assistance. Franchisees receive ongoing advice and written materials on managing and operating their businesses, including new developments, improvements in products and services, and sales strategies. The franchisor also offers recommendations on pricing. An updated Approved Products List and list of designated suppliers are provided as appropriate. Made in the Shade Blinds and More may also, at its discretion, hold an annual conference for franchisees to discuss new developments, exchange information, and recognize achievements.
Franchise Requirements
Ideal Candidate Profile
Made in the Shade Blinds and More LLC is seeking "qualified franchise applicants" who can designate an "Operating Principal" to directly supervise the business. This Operating Principal, who will be the main individual responsible for the business, must maintain at least a 10% ownership interest in the franchisee entity. While not required to be full-time, the Operating Principal is expected to use their best efforts to actively sell Made in the Shade Blinds and More LLC products and promote the business. They must also satisfy the franchisor's training requirements and other standards, and personally guarantee the franchise agreement's performance. Made in the Shade Blinds and More LLC values individuals who are committed to direct supervision, sales, and adherence to the system's operational standards.
Industry Experience Required
No
Management Experience Required
No
Sales Experience Required
No
Technical Skills Required
No
Operational Details
Location Type
Hybrid
Owner Participation
Part-Time
Territory Type
exclusive
Territory Size Requirements
Made in the Shade Blinds and More defines territories by U.S. Postal Service zip codes, generally comprising approximately 150,000 to 450,000 people. The specific size is determined by factors like contiguous markets, the franchisor's long-range plans, the franchisee's resources, and market conditions. A separate territory and franchise agreement are required for populations exceeding 450,000.
Staffing Notes
Each Made in the Shade Blinds and More LLC business must designate an Operating Principal who is the primary individual responsible for the franchise and must hold at least a 10% ownership interest. This Operating Principal, along with one additional trainee, must attend and successfully complete the franchisor's initial 5-day management training program in San Antonio, Texas. This training covers products, marketing, sales, measuring, installation, and business launch. While the Operating Principal is not required to be full-time, they must actively sell Made in the Shade Blinds and More LLC products and promote the business. Made in the Shade Blinds and More LLC reserves the right to require additional training for the Operating Principal and any successor or replacement personnel. Business managers and other personnel with access to training or confidential information may be required to sign non-competition and confidentiality agreements. Made in the Shade Blinds and More LLC expects its franchisees to maintain a competent, courteous, conscientious, and sales-oriented trained staff.