The Athlete’s Foot, which is promoting the commercial title TAF, is the world leader in athletic footwear franchising. The company is committed to providing innovative, flexible solutions to empower the success of TAF franchisees. TAF stores are operating in a variety of locations across six continents. Franchisees are assisted in evaluating local markets, identifying target customers bases and creating a plan for success tailored to local customer demographics. In 2007, TAF unveiled a new ‘next generation’ store design inspired by the athletic lifestyle, featuring awnings and banners, to evoke a ‘race day’ atmosphere. A key feature of the design is a new merchandising system that empowers franchisees to be successful.

Athlete’s Foot Franchise Opportunities – History

The Athlete’s Foot was founded in 1971 by Robert and David Lando, who opened the first store in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, the first athletic footwear specialty store of its kind in the United States. TAF soon began franchising and opened the first franchise location in Oshkosh, Wisconsin in 1972. In 1978, the first international location opened in Adelaide, Australia, and has since expanded to more than 40 countries on six continents. In 2006, NexCen Brands, Inc., acquired The Athlete’s Foot.

Athlete’s Foot Franchise Cost / Initial Investment / Athlete’s Foot

Franchise Income

Single- and multi-unit franchise agreements are available for TAF franchises. The franchise fee is $39,900. The total estimated investment ranges from $196,000 to $446,000, depending on size and location of stores. A 5% fee on net sales is paid monthly to the company, plus a 1% marketing fee. The Athlete’s Foot Brands, LLC, recorded sales of $88.7 million for the second half of the year 2010.

Athlete’s Foot Business Opportunities: Other Information

The Athlete’s Foot has been highlighted in Success Magazine and ranked the Number One franchise opportunity in America in Franchise Times, Entrepreneur Magazine, Franchise Canada Magazine and others.