Brand History and Background
Mado, a name synonymous with delectable and authentic Turkish ice cream, traces its origins back to the small town of Kahramanmaraş, Turkey. The brand’s inception dates back over 300 years when local artisans began perfecting the unique process of creating ‘dondurma’, a chewy and stretchy ice cream made from the milk of the native goats and thickened with the root of wild orchids. This special ice cream, known for its resistance to melting and its rich, creamy texture, quickly gained popularity in Turkey and beyond.
The Mado brand itself was formally established in 1992 by the Kanbur family, who sought to commercialize this traditional treat while maintaining its authentic taste and artisanal quality. Over the years, Mado has expanded its product line to include a variety of desserts, beverages, and food items, but it remains most famous for its signature ice cream. Today, Mado operates more than 400 stores worldwide, spanning continents from Europe to Asia and the Middle East. This remarkable growth is a testament to the universal appeal of Mado’s products and the successful business model the brand has implemented.
Investment Requirements
Entering the Mado franchise network requires a substantial but potentially lucrative investment. Prospective franchisees need to consider several financial aspects:
Initial Franchise Fee: The initial franchise fee for a Mado store can range from $50,000 to $100,000, depending on the location and size of the store.
Setup Costs: Setting up a Mado ice cream parlor involves costs such as leasing or purchasing a suitable retail space, interior design and branding, equipment for ice cream production and storage, and initial inventory. These costs can vary significantly but typically fall between $200,000 and $500,000.
Ongoing Royalties: Franchisees are required to pay ongoing royalties, which are generally a percentage of the monthly gross sales. This fee typically ranges from 5% to 8%.
Marketing Fund Contribution: In addition to royalties, franchisees contribute to a national marketing fund, which supports brand-wide advertising and promotional efforts. This contribution is usually around 2% of monthly gross sales.
Working Capital: It’s advisable for franchisees to have working capital to cover operating expenses for the first few months. This is usually estimated to be between $50,000 and $100,000.
Profitability and Success Indicators
Mado franchises have the potential to be highly profitable, thanks to the brand’s strong market presence and the popularity of its unique products. Key indicators of success for a Mado franchise include:
Location: The profitability of a Mado store heavily depends on its location. High foot traffic areas such as shopping malls, tourist destinations, and busy city centers tend to perform better.
Brand Recognition: Mado’s well-established brand and loyal customer base provide a significant advantage. Franchisees benefit from the brand’s extensive marketing efforts and strong reputation.
Operational Efficiency: Effective management of resources, inventory control, and customer service are critical to maximizing profits. Mado provides extensive training and support to ensure franchisees can run their stores efficiently.
Product Quality and Variety: Maintaining the high quality of Mado’s ice cream and other products is crucial. The brand’s unique offerings, such as its traditional dondurma, set it apart from competitors and attract repeat customers.
Local Marketing: While Mado provides national marketing support, successful franchisees often engage in local marketing efforts to attract and retain customers in their specific area.
Franchisee Qualifications and Characteristics
To ensure the success of their franchisees, Mado looks for individuals who meet specific qualifications and possess certain characteristics:
Business Acumen: Prospective franchisees should have a solid understanding of business operations, financial management, and customer service. Previous experience in the food and beverage industry is a plus.
Commitment to Quality: Maintaining the high standards of Mado’s products and service is paramount. Franchisees must be dedicated to upholding these standards.
Customer Focus: A successful Mado franchisee should have excellent interpersonal skills and a passion for delivering outstanding customer service.
Financial Stability: Candidates must have the financial resources to cover the initial investment and sustain the business until it becomes profitable.
Alignment with Brand Values: Mado values integrity, quality, and a commitment to excellence. Franchisees should share these values and be motivated to contribute to the brand’s success.
Examples of Successful Franchisees
The success stories of various Mado franchisees serve as inspiring examples of what can be achieved with dedication and the right approach. Here are a few notable examples:
Istanbul, Turkey: One of the most successful Mado franchises is located in the bustling Taksim Square in Istanbul. This store has become a landmark, attracting both locals and tourists. Its strategic location, combined with excellent service and a wide range of products, has resulted in impressive sales figures and a loyal customer base.
Dubai, UAE: The Mado store in The Dubai Mall is another shining example. Positioned in one of the world’s largest and most visited shopping malls, this franchise has leveraged the high foot traffic and the city’s diverse population to achieve remarkable success. The store’s commitment to quality and exceptional customer service has made it a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
Sydney, Australia: The Mado franchise in Sydney has thrived by tapping into the city’s multicultural population and the growing demand for unique and high-quality desserts. By offering a diverse menu that caters to various tastes, this store has established itself as a go-to destination for dessert lovers.
Contact Information and Next Steps
For those interested in exploring the Mado franchise opportunity further, the first step is to reach out to the Mado Franchise Development Team. Potential franchisees can contact Mado through the following channels:
Website: Visit the official Mado website and fill out the franchise inquiry form. This form typically requires basic information about the prospective franchisee and their interest in the franchise.
Phone: Call the Mado Franchise Development Team at +90 212 444 44 63 for more information and to speak directly with a franchise representative.
Next Steps:
Initial Inquiry: Complete the franchise inquiry form on the Mado website or contact the Franchise Development Team via email or phone.
Information Session: Upon receiving your inquiry, a Mado representative will contact you to discuss the franchise opportunity in more detail. This may include an initial phone call or meeting to answer any questions you may have.
Application Submission: If both parties agree to proceed, you will be asked to complete a detailed franchise application form. This will include providing information about your financial status, business experience, and proposed location.
Evaluation and Approval: Mado will evaluate your application and conduct a background check. If approved, you will be invited to meet with the Mado executive team for a more in-depth discussion.
Franchise Agreement: Once all evaluations are complete and both parties are satisfied, you will be offered a franchise agreement. This legal document outlines the terms and conditions of the franchise relationship.
Training and Setup: After signing the franchise agreement, you will undergo comprehensive training provided by Mado. This includes learning about the brand’s products, operations, and customer service standards. Concurrently, you will work on setting up your store, including securing a location, designing the interior, and installing necessary equipment.
Grand Opening: With training complete and your store ready, you will prepare for the grand opening. Mado will assist with marketing and promotional activities to ensure a successful launch.
Conclusion
Joining the Mado franchise network offers a unique opportunity to be part of a globally recognized brand with a rich heritage and a proven business model. With a commitment to quality, excellent customer service, and strategic location, franchisees can achieve significant success. If you are passionate about food, have a strong business acumen, and align with Mado’s values, this franchise opportunity could be the perfect venture for you. Take the first step today by reaching out to the Mado Franchise Development Team and embarking on a journey toward a rewarding business future.
