FAQ

How much does it cost to open a ChopValue franchise?

The projected development cost is dependent on multiple variables and can have a wide range. We typically land between US$145,000 – $385,000 for an all-in cost, depending if you are building on top of an existing business or from the ground up.

The range of development cost is due primarily to the varying site conditions and square footage (such as from a 500 square foot pop-up space to a 2,500 square foot space full size Microfactory location).

Locations that have previously been used as studios, commercial or light industrial units may have necessary infrastructure in place such as electrical service, etc. This existing infrastructure reduces your development costs.

For a general breakdown of costs, please fill out an application and join us for a personalized info session.

What are the fees involved and what does the franchise fee include?

The initial franchise fee is US$62,500 plus applicable taxes, with an ongoing 6% royalty fee and 2-3% cooperative advertising and branding fund. For information on fees and franchising structure on multi-unit master franchise deals, please get in touch with us for more information. 

The minimum cash requirement ranges between US$150,000 – $385,000.

Do I need manufacturing experience?

No, you don’t — our Microfactory owners come from a diverse set of backgrounds, but all with a shared vision to make a positive impact in their local community. While experience in trades may be helpful, The ChopValue Microfactory concept seeks franchisees that have a drive for success and a willingness to learn and follow our operating manuals. Our in-house experts with over 15 years of experience in manufacturing and product development will train you in all aspects of running a successful Microfactory.

How do I get clients?

By being part of the ChopValue Manufacturing network, you will have access to all marketing material, assets, photography and brand visuals that are in constant development by ChopValue. We will provide comprehensive guidance to help you create your localized marketing plan, and also share a library of sales enablement tools to help with your business development efforts. In addition, being part of our distributed manufacturing network means that you will be able to participate in our order distribution system, serving national and international clients that have established relationships with ChopValue corporate.

How many employees do I need?

You are required to hire 1 Production Lead and 1 Community Builder at the beginning of the operation, who will receive training from us directly. A single-shift Microfactory production site employs in average 5-7 staff, but you can hire your team as your growth demands.

What type of training do I receive from ChopValue corporate?

From community building (market entry and partnership guidelines), administrative support in accounting, hiring and inventory management leading up to your opening day with our operational support after you start production, we are here every step of the way through weekly check-in calls as well as instant communications. A minimum of 3 days on-site training after equipment installation is provided by our training staff (engineers, production lead, business development) to make sure that you are well versed in running your own ChopValue Microfactory.

What is the minimum number of collection partners that a Microfactory would require?

This entirely depends on your definition of success: Typically, a franchise will need a minimum 60-75 restaurant collection partners, which would result in around 300-450kg of chopsticks per week. In denser areas, larger malls and food courts can provide a significant amount of chopsticks. We will share all of our community building material with you, and every collection partner is featured on the ChopValue website.

What territories are available for single and multi-unit franchises?

We are looking for franchise partners across North America, Europe, and Asia. Both single Microfactories and multi-unit master franchise deals are available. The proven success of our business model allows you to run multiple units as a Microfactory network in the right markets. 

How do I get a copy of the Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD)?

Once we meet you over an exploration call, qualified partners will be forwarded our FDD. The FDD, along with our due diligence package, will help you to understand the ChopValue concept and develop your own market entry plan.

How long does it take to start up a ChopValue Microfactory franchise?

The timeline of the process is dependent on the applicant. We take the process at your pace, so if you would like to get it done as quickly as possible we can support that, and if you want to take your time with each step we are happy to accommodate this as well. It’s important to us that you are comfortable with each step, feeling even more motivated to make a difference in your community. It can take as little as 3 months (North America) depending on how well both parties are prepared before entering an agreement.