In the highly competitive world of men’s grooming, the Sports Clips franchise has carved out a winning formula that continues to dominate across the United States.
With its unique blend of sports-themed environments and precision haircuts tailored for men and boys, it has become more than a barbershop, it is a trusted lifestyle brand.
Entrepreneurs eyeing a steady, scalable business in a growing industry often turn to this model for its blend of brand recognition and operational simplicity.
This guide walks you through everything you need to know before owning a Sports Clips franchise, from the actual costs to startup, to the profit potential, ongoing investment, franchisee support, and training you can expect.
See also: A product on how to become a successful franchise owner.
Key Takeaways
- The Sports Clips franchise offers a focused, semi-absentee business model with a strong brand and recurring revenue from a loyal male customer base.
- Startup costs range from 266,300 to 439,500 dollars, with average profit margins between 10 and 15 per cent depending on store performance.
- Franchisees receive comprehensive training, marketing support, and access to preferred financing options, including SBA loans and ROBS.
- Compared to alternatives, Sports Clips stands out for its niche focus, scalability, and high franchisee satisfaction across over 1,800 U.S. locations.
What is the Sports Clips Franchise
The Sports Clips franchise is a standout in the personal grooming industry, known for its specialised focus on men and boys.
Launched in 1993 by Gordon Logan, a former Air Force pilot and entrepreneur, the brand was built to fill a gap in the haircutting market, a space where men could feel comfortable, valued, and catered to.
What started as a single store in Austin, Texas has grown into one of the most recognised franchises in the United States.
At its core, Sports Clips delivers a sports-themed haircut experience. Each location is designed with the fan in mind: wall-to-wall sports decor, flat screens showing live games, and a signature service model that includes the MVP Haircut Experience: a precision cut, hot steamed towel, massaging shampoo, and neck and shoulder treatment.
This customer-first approach, tailored to the male demographic, has proven to be both scalable and deeply marketable.
Today, Sports Clips operates more than 1,800 locations across all 50 U.S. states. It consistently ranks among the top franchises in the country, frequently appearing on Entrepreneur Magazine’s Franchise 500 list.
Its strong industry presence and simple, focused service offering make it a favourite among investors seeking stable, service-based income.
One of the biggest appeals for entrepreneurs is that the Sports Clips franchise supports a semi-absentee ownership model. Franchisees are not required to have a background in haircare or be on-site daily.
The business is designed to be managed by a team of stylists and a store manager, freeing owners to operate one or more units without the demands of full-time presence.
This flexibility is especially attractive for professionals transitioning out of corporate careers or those building a diversified portfolio.
Sports Clips also stands out for its strong franchisor-franchisee relationship. New owners receive extensive training, support, and access to proven operational systems.
The brand maintains a reputation for transparency, responsiveness, and ongoing innovation, all key reasons why it enjoys high retention and satisfaction among its franchise partners.
See also: Best Franchises to Own for Beginners: Top Opportunities for First-Time Entrepreneurs
Step-by-Step: How to Own a Sports Clips Franchise
Starting a Sports Clips franchise is a straightforward process, but it involves several stages that require planning, documentation, and decision-making.
Whether you are exploring this as a first-time business owner or adding it to an existing portfolio, knowing how to own a Sports Clips franchise will help you navigate the journey with confidence.
The steps below outline what to expect from the initial inquiry to the grand opening.
Step 1: Initial Inquiry and Application
Your first step is to complete the franchise inquiry form on the official Sports Clips website. This basic form collects details about your background, location of interest, and financial qualifications.
It lets the franchise development team know you are serious about exploring the Sports Clips franchise opportunity.
If you meet the initial criteria, you will receive the Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD), which provides an in-depth look at the Sports Clips franchise cost, operational requirements, and legal obligations.
Step 2: Review the Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD)
The FDD is one of the most important documents you will receive. It breaks down every aspect of the Sports Clips franchise investment, including:
- Franchise fee and royalty structure
- Estimated startup costs
- Territory rights
- Legal terms and conditions
- Historical performance of existing franchises
Take time to review this document carefully, and consider hiring a franchise attorney to help you interpret the finer points. This stage is where you get clarity on what it takes to own and operate a Sports Clips location.
Step 3: Franchisee Evaluation and Interviews
Once you indicate interest in moving forward, you will go through a series of interviews with Sports Clips’ franchise development team.
These conversations help both parties assess whether there is a strong fit in terms of business goals, culture, and expectations.
During this stage, you will also discuss your financial position, timeline, and preferred territory. You may be asked to provide supporting documents to verify that you meet the Sports Clips franchise requirements.
Step 4: Attend Discovery Day
Qualified candidates are invited to attend Discovery Day at the Sports Clips headquarters in Texas. This in-person event gives you a chance to meet the leadership team, tour the facilities, and speak with existing franchisees.
Discovery Day is a critical step. It is your opportunity to ask questions, get honest feedback, and assess whether this is the right franchise model for you. Many owners say this visit helped them solidify their decision to join the Sports Clips family.
Step 5: Secure Financing and Finalise Funding
Once you have completed Discovery Day and are approved as a franchisee, it is time to secure financing. This may include:
- SBA loan approval
- Rollover for Business Startups (ROBS)
- Equipment financing
- Personal capital investment
If you need guidance on presenting a strong case to lenders or structuring your funding, our business plan template is built to help entrepreneurs like you organise every cost, forecast, and milestone.
This stage also includes setting up your business entity, which you can do with support from our startup services, including registration, branding, and legal compliance.
Step 6: Sign the Franchise Agreement
With funding in place, you will officially sign the franchise agreement and pay the initial franchise fee. This is your legal entry point into the network.
Once signed, you gain access to the Sports Clips franchise training and support system and begin the onboarding process.
Step 7: Complete Initial Training
Before your store opens, you will attend a comprehensive training program at Sports Clips’ headquarters. This includes both classroom instruction and in-store experience, where you learn how to:
- Operate the POS system
- Hire and manage stylists
- Run daily operations
- Launch local marketing campaigns
Training is mandatory and designed to ensure every franchisee is prepared to deliver the Sports Clips standard of service.
Step 8: Site Selection and Build-Out
Working with real estate professionals and the franchisor’s development team, you will identify and secure a retail location. Sports Clips provides guidance on:
- Market demographics
- Store visibility
- Competitor proximity
- Lease negotiation
Once the lease is signed, build-out begins. This includes design, construction, equipment installation, and branding. Build-out times can vary based on location and contractor schedules, but typically range from 90 to 120 days.
Step 9: Hire Your Team and Prepare for Launch
Before opening, you will recruit stylists, appoint a store manager, and conduct pre-launch training. Sports Clips assists with job postings, interviewing tips, and training guides to help you onboard the right people.
You will also begin implementing your local marketing plan. This may include community outreach, digital ads, and grand opening events.
Step 10: Grand Opening and Beyond
With your team in place and doors ready to open, you will launch your Sports Clips franchise to the public. This phase includes a grand opening campaign supported by both national and local marketing efforts.
After opening, you will receive regular visits from your area manager, attend regional training sessions, and stay connected with the Sports Clips franchise community.
Success in the early months sets the tone for profitability, so it is essential to follow the playbook and actively manage performance.
Many franchisees start with one store and go on to open several more within a few years. With the right mindset, resources, and support, you can do the same.
Sports Clips Franchise Cost
Understanding the total investment required to open a Sports Clips franchise is a key step in evaluating whether this business opportunity is right for you.
From the franchise fee to build-out costs and working capital, the financial commitment is detailed but manageable for many aspiring owners.
Franchise Fee
To become a Sports Clips franchise owner, you will need to pay a one-time franchise fee of 59,500 dollars. This fee grants you the license to operate under the Sports Clips brand and provides access to its training, systems, and ongoing support.
Total Initial Investment
The total Sports Clips franchise cost ranges between 266,300 dollars and 439,500 dollars. This range covers a wide spectrum of startup expenses, including:
- Leasehold improvements and construction
- Furniture, fixtures, and equipment
- Initial inventory and supplies
- Grand opening marketing
- Insurance and business licenses
- Legal and professional fees
The variation in cost largely depends on factors like location, local labour rates, and lease conditions.
Ongoing Fees and Royalties
As a franchisee, you will pay a royalty fee equal to 6 per cent of your gross sales. This covers access to ongoing support, operational tools, and system-wide updates.
In addition, a 5 per cent contribution to the national advertising fund is required. These fees are standard across most franchises and ensure brand consistency and support.
Working Capital Requirements
Franchisees are advised to have at least three months’ worth of working capital on hand to cover early operating costs. This includes payroll, utilities, and other overheads during the ramp-up period.
Additional Costs to Consider
Other components that contribute to the overall Sports Clips franchise investment include:
- Real estate deposits and pre-opening rent
- Technology setup, including POS systems
- Localised marketing initiatives
Each of these elements adds to the upfront and ongoing Sports Clips franchise cost, so it is essential to plan carefully and have a solid business plan in place.
If you need a customisable and investor-ready plan, our business plan template is designed to help you structure your financials and make a compelling case for funding or partnership.
How Much Profit Can You Make With a Sports Clips Franchise
Profit potential is one of the most important considerations for anyone looking to invest in a franchise.
With a Sports Clips franchise, the opportunity to earn consistent and scalable income is a strong part of its appeal, especially for entrepreneurs who want to run a business with recurring revenue, strong brand loyalty, and a low-cost service model.
Average Gross Revenue Per Location
According to data from recent Franchise Disclosure Documents, the average Sports Clips franchise generates approximately 297,000 dollars in annual gross revenue per location.
While performance varies depending on location, management, and local market demand, this figure provides a solid benchmark for financial planning.
Some high-performing stores report gross sales that exceed 400,000 dollars annually. The brand’s strong national recognition, combined with a highly targeted customer base, contributes to consistent foot traffic and repeat business.
Typical Sports Clips Franchise Profit Margin
Profit margins are shaped by several key factors, but most Sports Clips franchise locations operate with a net profit margin between 10 percent and 15 percent.
After deducting operating costs such as labour, rent, product supplies, royalties, and advertising contributions, franchise owners can expect annual net profits ranging from 30,000 to 50,000 dollars per store.
These margins can be improved through:
- Hiring and retaining experienced stylists
- Running targeted local marketing campaigns
- Managing payroll and inventory efficiently
- Choosing a high-traffic or premium retail location
The simplicity of the business model allows for tighter cost controls and faster financial tracking.
For entrepreneurs who want to stay lean while maximising returns, the Sports Clips franchise profit margin offers a promising balance of stability and upside.
How Much Does a Sports Clips Franchise Make Annually
The question of how much a Sports Clips franchise makes annually depends on how well the business is managed, the experience of the owner, and how quickly the location ramps up. Based on current market data and case studies, here’s a simplified example:
- Gross revenue: 300,000 dollars
- Operating expenses (excluding royalties and ad fund): 210,000 dollars
- Royalties (6%): 18,000 dollars
- Ad fund (5%): 15,000 dollars
- Net income before tax: 57,000 dollars
These figures represent a well-run, average-performing location. Multi-unit operators, especially those who manage three or more stores, often see higher cumulative returns while benefiting from shared marketing, staffing, and administrative efficiencies.
What Impacts Profitability
Several variables affect how much profit a Sports Clips franchise can generate:
Geography: Urban and suburban areas with high population density often perform better
Staff Quality: Customer satisfaction and repeat business hinge on the professionalism and consistency of stylists
Store Management: Effective managers help reduce waste, retain talent, and keep the shop running smoothly
Marketing Execution: Franchisees who invest in strong local advertising tend to outperform competitors
If you want to boost your store’s visibility from day one, consider using our targeted advertising packages designed to help entrepreneurs connect with their ideal customers. With a focused media plan, your Sports Clips franchise can hit key profit milestones faster.
Is a Sports Clips Franchise Profitable
For aspiring franchise owners evaluating investment opportunities, one of the most common questions is: Is a Sports Clips franchise profitable?
The short answer is yes—when run effectively, Sports Clips franchises can generate stable, recurring income with strong long-term growth potential. However, as with any business, profitability depends on execution, location, and commitment.
Business Model Designed for Steady Revenue
Sports Clips franchises are built around a simple, repeatable model that serves a clear demographic: men and boys seeking high-quality haircuts in a sports-themed environment.
This narrow focus is one of the brand’s greatest strengths. The service itself is non-discretionary- haircuts are a necessity, and clients typically return every three to five weeks, creating consistent foot traffic and predictable cash flow.
Unlike fashion retail or seasonal businesses, a Sports Clips franchise is not subject to major fluctuations in demand.
This stability supports stronger financial forecasting and makes the business especially attractive for semi-absentee owners looking for a low-risk, manager-run operation.
Recurring Customer Base and High Retention Rates
Customer retention is a critical factor in determining profitability. Sports Clips benefits from a loyal base of returning clients, thanks in part to its MVP Haircut Experience and sports-centric atmosphere.
Its membership and loyalty programs further incentivise repeat visits, increasing customer lifetime value.
Franchisees who actively engage with their local community and run targeted marketing campaigns often see higher retention rates and stronger month-over-month revenue growth.
If you are looking to market your business from launch day, our advertising packages offer tailored plans to help you build awareness and convert local traffic into loyal clients.
Economies of Scale for Multi-Unit Owners
Profitability can increase significantly when you own multiple Sports Clips locations. Multi-unit owners benefit from shared staffing resources, consolidated administrative functions, and stronger buying power.
Many franchisees who start with one unit go on to open two or more within a few years, building a portfolio that generates mid-to-high six-figure annual income.
The system’s semi-absentee model makes it possible to scale without being tied to the day-to-day operations of every location.
This positions the Sports Clips franchise as a strong option not only for first-time business owners but also for investors looking to diversify their income streams.
Profitability Benchmarks and Industry Position
Sports Clips consistently ranks among the top-performing haircare franchises in the U.S. Its inclusion in Entrepreneur Magazine’s Franchise 500 and Franchise Times’ Top 200+ lists is evidence of its operational efficiency and high franchisee satisfaction.
According to industry reports, many franchisees recoup their initial investment within three to five years, depending on location and market conditions.
In a 2023 report by Franchise Business Review, over 85 per cent of surveyed Sports Clips franchise owners rated their financial performance as “satisfying” or “above expectations.”
This level of profitability, paired with the brand’s strong reputation, makes it a reliable choice for entrepreneurs focused on long-term value creation.
Sports Clips Franchise Requirements
If you are considering investing in a Sports Clips franchise, understanding the eligibility criteria and expectations is essential. While the brand offers extensive training and support, it is selective in choosing franchise partners to preserve its reputation and maintain consistency across all locations.
Meeting the Sports Clips franchise requirements is the first step to becoming part of this established and growing network.
Financial Requirements
To qualify for ownership, prospective franchisees must meet specific financial thresholds. These figures are standard in the franchising industry and reflect the capital needed to successfully launch and sustain the business.
- Minimum net worth: 400,000 dollars
- Liquid capital: 200,000 dollars or more
These financial requirements are in place to ensure that new owners have the resources to cover the initial Sports Clips franchise cost, as well as operating expenses during the first few months of business.
If you are planning to raise funds through loans or partnerships, having a solid business plan can improve your chances of approval.
Background and Experience
One of the most appealing aspects of the Sports Clips franchise model is that no prior experience in haircare or salon management is required. The company welcomes franchisees from a variety of professional backgrounds, including:
- Corporate professionals transitioning to entrepreneurship
- Veterans and military retirees
- Investors building a multi-unit portfolio
- Semi-absentee owners seeking recurring income
What matters most is your ability to lead a team, manage financial performance, and follow a proven system. Sports Clips looks for franchisees who are coachable, goal-driven, and committed to maintaining high operational standards.
Commitment to the Business Model
While the business can be run semi-absentee, it is not a hands-off investment. New owners are expected to:
- Complete mandatory training programs
- Hire and manage a qualified store manager
- Oversee local marketing efforts
- Participate in regional meetings and performance reviews
Being involved in the strategic direction of your store, especially in the early stages, is crucial for long-term success.
Many franchisees eventually shift into a portfolio owner role, but the initial commitment lays the foundation for profitability and brand alignment.
Brand Representation and Culture Fit
Sports Clips is selective about who represents its brand. Prospective franchisees should align with its values of professionalism, customer focus, and community engagement. The company prioritises candidates who:
- Share a passion for service excellence
- Are willing to be active members of their local business community
- Understand the value of team building and leadership
If you meet the Sports Clips franchise requirements and are looking for a business with a clear playbook, trusted support system, and a strong reputation, this could be a smart move toward long-term business ownership.
Sports Clips Franchise Training and Support
One of the standout advantages of joining the Sports Clips franchise network is the strength of its training and support system.
For entrepreneurs new to the grooming industry, this hands-on, structured guidance makes it possible to confidently operate a profitable business, even without prior salon experience.
The Sports Clips franchise training and support program is consistently rated as one of the best in its category.
Initial Training for New Franchise Owners
Every new franchisee begins their journey with a multi-day onboarding process hosted at Sports Clips’ headquarters in Georgetown, Texas.
This initial training covers all the essentials you need to run your store, including:
- Salon operations and store layout
- Hiring and onboarding stylists
- Using the point-of-sale and scheduling systems
- Managing inventory and vendor relationships
- Understanding local marketing and community engagement
The curriculum is designed to be practical, so you leave with the knowledge and tools to begin managing your location from day one.
The program also includes on-site training at a live store where you can shadow experienced managers and team members.
Ongoing Support From the Franchisor
Sports Clips does not stop at opening day. Franchisees receive continuous support throughout their ownership journey. Dedicated area developers and field coaches are assigned to each franchise owner to provide:
- Monthly performance reviews
- On-site visits and operational audits
- Coaching on staff retention and leadership
- Guidance on financial management and cost control
- Assistance with local marketing initiatives
This consistent communication and accountability are key to long-term success. Many franchisees credit the brand’s hands-on support with helping them grow from one location to multiple stores over time.
Marketing and Advertising Support
Each franchise contributes to the national advertising fund, which supports high-level marketing campaigns across television, digital, and social platforms. In addition, Sports Clips provides templated materials and strategies for:
- Grand opening promotions
- Seasonal campaigns
- Local outreach events
- Social media content planning
Technology and Tools Provided
As a franchisee, you will have access to a full suite of proprietary tools, including:
- POS systems designed specifically for salon operations
- Real-time performance dashboards
- Online scheduling and client management tools
- Payroll and HR integration support
These systems allow for data-driven decision-making and easier store oversight, whether you are managing one shop or several.
Peer Community and Continued Learning
Franchisees are part of a wider community of business owners. Sports Clips facilitates ongoing education through:
- Annual conferences
- Regional workshops
- Webinars and leadership sessions
- Peer groups and mentorship opportunities
This sense of community is a valuable resource for new owners, offering both motivation and real-world advice from those who have been in your shoes.
The level of franchisee support is a major reason why Sports Clips continues to attract qualified investors looking for a guided path to ownership. If you are looking to reinforce your learning with tailored resources, our Entrepreneur Success Blueprint program provides a strategic edge as you prepare to launch and grow your business.
Financing Options to Own a Sports Clips Franchise
One of the most common concerns for aspiring franchisees is how to fund the total Sports Clips franchise investment.
While the business model is designed to be accessible, the upfront costs ranging from 266,300 to 439,500 dollars can be a challenge without the right financing strategy.
Fortunately, there are several ways to finance a Sports Clips franchise, including options tailored specifically for new business owners.
Small Business Administration (SBA) Loans
The most popular financing method for franchise ownership in the United States is an SBA loan. Sports Clips is listed on the SBA Franchise Directory, making it eligible for SBA-backed loans through approved lenders. These loans offer:
- Low interest rates
- Extended repayment terms (up to 10 years)
- Lower down payment requirements compared to traditional loans
To qualify for an SBA loan, you will typically need a strong credit history, a solid business plan, and a down payment of 10 to 20 per cent.
Rollover for Business Startups (ROBS)
If you have a retirement account such as a 401(k) or IRA, you can use it to fund your Sports Clips franchise without early withdrawal penalties or taxes.
This process is known as a Rollover for Business Startups (ROBS), and it allows you to invest your own funds into your business by setting up a C Corporation.
ROBS is ideal for entrepreneurs who want to use their savings to become business owners without incurring debt.
It is important to work with a qualified financial provider to ensure the process complies with IRS regulations.
Franchisor-Preferred Lenders
Sports Clips has relationships with a network of preferred lenders who understand the franchise model and can expedite the funding process.
These lenders are familiar with the typical Sports Clips franchise cost structure and can offer pre-approved packages that align with your needs.
Working with a lender who already understands the business often results in faster approvals, better terms, and fewer delays.
Franchise candidates can discuss these options during the discovery process or request a referral during their initial consultation with the franchisor.
Equipment Financing
While not suited for covering the entire Sports Clips franchise investment, equipment financing can be used to lease or purchase some of the tools needed to run your location. This includes salon chairs, point-of-sale systems, televisions, and fixtures.
This financing approach frees up cash for other aspects of the build-out while allowing you to spread payments over time.
Home Equity Lines of Credit (HELOC) and Personal Loans
If you own property or have a strong credit profile, a HELOC or personal loan could be another financing route. These options typically work best when used to cover gaps not funded by other sources.
They offer flexibility but also carry higher risk, so it is essential to ensure your projected Sports Clips franchise profit margin can comfortably cover repayment.
Grants and Veteran Financing Programs
Veterans are a key demographic for Sports Clips, and the brand actively supports their transition into entrepreneurship. Qualified veterans may receive:
- Reduced franchise fees
- Access to exclusive funding programs
- Priority placement in certain territories
Franchise-specific grants or economic development loans may also be available, depending on your city or state. Entrepreneurs are encouraged to explore all local resources, especially when opening a store in an underserved community or job creation zone.
Building a Strategic Funding Plan
Understanding how to finance your Sports Clips franchise means more than choosing one loan type. It often involves combining two or more funding sources to build a stable capital stack. Whatever your mix, lenders and franchisors will expect a clear, well-structured plan.
If you are looking to attract partners or outside investors, your pitch matters. Our resources are designed to help you articulate the value of the Sports Clips franchise model while showcasing your readiness as an owner.
Alternatives to the Sports Clips Franchise
While the Sports Clips franchise remains one of the most successful and recognisable names in men’s grooming, it is smart business to explore comparable options before making a final decision.
Each franchise comes with its own strengths, costs, and operating models. If you are wondering whether there are alternatives to the Sports Clips franchise that align better with your investment style or local market, here are a few worth considering.
Great Clips
Great Clips is one of the largest and most established haircut franchises in North America, with over 4,000 locations. It targets a broader demographic than Sports Clips, serving men, women, and children.
- Franchise fee: 20,000 dollars
- Total investment: 146,000 to 281,000 dollars
- Royalty fee: 6 per cent
While the brand has widespread name recognition, it operates on a higher-volume, lower-margin model. It is ideal for franchisees looking to scale quickly and manage multiple locations.
Supercuts
Owned by Regis Corporation, Supercuts focuses on providing affordable haircuts in high-traffic shopping centres. Like Great Clips, it serves a mixed customer base, which may create more flexibility in certain markets.
- Franchise fee: 39,500 dollars
- Total investment: 144,000 to 293,000 dollars
- Royalty fee: 6 per cent
Supercuts may appeal to franchisees who want the backing of a major corporate parent and more flexible service offerings.
However, its brand does not have the same tight niche or customer loyalty as the Sports Clips franchise.
Roosters Men’s Grooming Centre
Roosters is a boutique-style barbershop franchise that offers upscale grooming services for men. Its aesthetic and price point target a more premium clientele than Sports Clips.
- Franchise fee: 39,500 dollars
- Total investment: 200,000 to 350,000 dollars
- Royalty fee: 6 per cent
Roosters may appeal to investors targeting affluent urban areas. However, the smaller number of locations and lesser brand visibility make it a less scalable option compared to the Sports Clips franchise.
Floyd’s 99 Barbershop
Known for its edgy, music-driven vibe, Floyd’s 99 Barbershop blends classic barbering with a modern, youth-oriented experience. It offers cuts, shaves, and colour services in a trendy setting.
- Franchise fee: 40,000 dollars
- Total investment: 250,000 to 500,000 dollars
- Royalty fee: 5 per cent
Floyd’s appeals to a different demographic, primarily younger men seeking style over speed. It may work well in creative, urban neighbourhoods, but does not offer the same national recognition or semi-absentee model as Sports Clips.
Why Sports Clips Still Stands Out
If you are comparing these alternatives to the Sports Clips franchise, here is what sets Sports Clips apart:
- A focused demographic (men and boys) with recurring haircut needs
- A scalable, semi-absentee ownership model
- Strong national brand presence and customer loyalty
- Comprehensive training and support
- A business model proven across 1,800-plus locations in all 50 U.S. states
The Sports Clips franchise profit margin remains strong due to the operational simplicity and niche focus, which often leads to higher retention and repeat visits.
For many investors, especially those looking to own multiple units without being on site daily, Sports Clips continues to offer one of the most accessible and profitable entry points in the grooming industry.
Conclusion
The Sports Clips franchise offers a focused, proven business model with strong brand recognition, recurring revenue, and a loyal customer base.
Its clear demographic, semi-absentee ownership model, and comprehensive training make it especially appealing for entrepreneurs seeking a scalable service business that does not require prior experience in haircare.
With over 1,800 locations across the United States and average earnings that align with modest startup costs, it remains one of the most accessible and potentially profitable franchise opportunities in the men’s grooming industry.
From understanding the Sports Clips franchise cost to calculating potential returns, the path is clearly laid out for investors willing to follow the system and stay engaged in store operations.
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FAQs About Sports Clips Franchise
If you are researching whether the Sports Clips franchise is the right investment for you, chances are you have some pressing questions.
Below are some of the most commonly searched and asked questions about owning a Sports Clips franchise. These answers will help you clarify everything from startup costs to operational details.
How much does a Sports Clips franchise cost to start?
The total Sports Clips franchise cost ranges from approximately 266,300 to 439,500 dollars. This includes the initial franchise fee, build-out costs, equipment, inventory, working capital, and marketing expenses.
Final costs vary depending on location, lease terms, and local construction rates.
Is a Sports Clips franchise profitable?
Yes, a Sports Clips franchise can be profitable when managed effectively. Average profit margins range from 10 per cent to 15 per cent, depending on store performance.
Owners typically earn between 30,000 and 50,000 dollars annually per location, with multi-unit franchisees earning more through operational efficiencies and economies of scale.
How much does a Sports Clips franchise make per year?
A single Sports Clips location generates an average of 297,000 dollars in gross annual revenue, according to data from the brand’s Franchise Disclosure Document.
High-performing stores can exceed 400,000 dollars in annual sales. Net profit depends on location, staffing, and cost controls.
What are the Sports Clips franchise requirements?
To qualify, you must have a minimum net worth of 400,000 dollars and at least 200,000 dollars in liquid assets. No experience in haircare is required, but you should have strong business acumen and leadership skills.
The franchisor looks for owners who are coachable, team-oriented, and financially prepared.
Do I need to be a licensed barber or stylist to own a Sports Clips franchise?
No, you do not need to be a licensed barber or stylist. The Sports Clips franchise model is built for semi-absentee ownership.
Franchisees focus on managing the business, hiring qualified staff, and overseeing store performance.
How long does it take to open a Sports Clips franchise?
The typical timeline from initial inquiry to grand opening is 6 to 9 months. This includes application processing, financing, site selection, training, and construction.
Factors like permitting, build-out delays, and funding can impact this timeline.
What kind of training does Sports Clips provide to franchise owners?
Sports Clips franchise training includes classroom instruction at the corporate office, in-store hands-on experience, and ongoing support from regional field coaches.
You will also receive training on hiring, operations, marketing, and financial management.
Can I own more than one Sports Clips franchise?
Yes. Many franchisees start with one store and scale up to own multiple units. The system is designed to support multi-unit ownership with strong operational processes and a semi-absentee model that enables scalability.
What is the Sports Clips franchise profit margin?
Most Sports Clips locations operate with a net profit margin between 10 per cent and 15 per cent. Profitability depends on revenue, local operating costs, staff efficiency, and marketing effectiveness.
Are there any hidden costs in the Sports Clips franchise investment?
All expected expenses are outlined in the Franchise Disclosure Document. However, additional costs can arise during the build-out process, such as city permit delays, higher-than-expected construction costs, or unexpected equipment upgrades. A strong business plan and contingency fund are essential.
Does Sports Clips offer financing support?
While Sports Clips does not directly finance new stores, it works with a network of preferred lenders familiar with the franchise model. Franchisees often use SBA loans, ROBS, or personal financing. Our startup support services and business plan template can help you navigate these options.
Is the Sports Clips franchise a good investment?
The Sports Clips franchise is a proven business model with strong brand equity, a loyal customer base, and comprehensive support.
For entrepreneurs seeking a stable, service-based business with growth potential, it presents a compelling opportunity. As with any investment, profitability will depend on execution, location, and commitment to the system.
