Choosing the right business model is crucial for any business, whether you’re in retail, beauty, health, or hospitality. Deciding between suite models and traditional brick-and-mortar locations can heavily influence your growth, customer experience, and how smoothly your operations run.
Drawing from my experience in scaling business models like the Waxxpot franchise, here’s what business leaders should consider when picking the model that best aligns with their goals.
When it comes to flexibility and growth, suite models stand out, especially for businesses looking to expand quickly or enter new markets. Operating in shared facilities, this model lets businesses grow without the high costs of a standalone storefront. It’s ideal for testing new markets with lower financial risks.
Suite models are particularly useful in industries where trends change fast, allowing businesses to adapt and scale with ease. On the other hand, traditional storefronts can face challenges, like finding the right real estate, which can take time and require legal assistance for lease agreements.
Despite these challenges, brick-and-mortar locations still offer substantial growth benefits, leading some business leaders to reconsider their preference for suite models. For instance, the founder of Waxxpot, Daniel Sadd, known for his success with Salon Lofts, a suite model, now recognizes when brick-and-mortar models can lead to stronger growth. His experience ensures Waxxpot remains flexible and grows with a solid leadership team, real estate support, and community-focused franchisees.
For businesses focusing on brand consistency and a great customer experience, traditional storefronts offer better control. Brick-and-mortar locations let owners manage every detail, from store design to staff customer interactions, ensuring a consistent brand feel. This level of control is tougher to achieve in shared suite spaces, where customization is limited. If your business thrives on a personalized customer journey, a brick-and-mortar setup might be the way to go.
When looking at costs, suite models typically have a lower entry barrier. They involve lower initial investments and shared resources, which can be appealing for entrepreneurs wanting to reduce upfront costs. This setup is advantageous for startups or businesses with limited capital. However, while suite models are cheaper initially, brick-and-mortar locations can provide better long-term revenue growth, customer retention, and upselling opportunities. The real estate investment can also yield future revenue. Balancing short-term savings with potentially higher future returns is crucial.
Visibility and market presence is another area where brick-and-mortar locations shine. A physical storefront in a busy area can attract walk-in customers and enhance brand recognition. This visibility is invaluable for businesses looking to strengthen their market presence. Suite models often rely on appointments or niche clients, which might work for some businesses, but if foot traffic is vital for your growth, a traditional storefront is a better option.
Brick-and-mortar businesses also offer full control over the space, from operations to maintenance and upgrades. Owners can design their physical area to meet specific standards. In contrast, suite models involve shared maintenance responsibilities, which although reduce daily duties, also limit environmental control. If having control over your space’s appearance is essential, a traditional model is preferable.
Ultimately, the right business model depends on your priorities, regardless of your industry. Both suite models and brick-and-mortar locations have advantages, but aligning the model with your long-term vision and business objectives is key. Carefully considering these factors will help business owners make informed decisions that foster long-term success.
