Marianela Clavier, Operation Manager for Freedom Boat Club's EMEA region, answers our questions about developing the boat club network and becoming a franchisee.
How is Freedom Boat Club developing in France?
With the opening of our base in the old port of Marseille and the one in Canet en Roussillon, we now have 5 bases in France. After La Rochelle, Carnon and Cap d'Agde. They complement the dozen or so clubs in the UK and Spain. As well as 380 clubs in the United States and the Caribbean.
We're looking to build up a strong network along the entire coastline, but also on inland waterways.
What is the profile of a professional looking to open a boat club?
Above all, we're looking for people with a passion for boating and a sense of service. And who are also capable of creating and leading a community of members.
We're not necessarily looking for professionals who already work in the sector.
Our current franchisees have different profiles. Some have joined Freedom Boat Club as their core business. Others use it as a complementary service to an existing business.
What role do you play in an opening?
We provide a great deal of support to the franchisee in setting up his business. The future franchisee benefits from our experience in discussions with port and institutional authorities, to facilitate the process. Our role is to find solutions and answer all questions.
How long does the basic opening process take?
The process of opening the Marseille Vieux-Port base was completed in 6 months, from initial contact to inauguration. But it all depends on whether or not the initial structure exists. It can go much faster.
How much is the franchise fee?
The entry fee for the Freedom Boat Club franchise is 25,000 euros.
The boat club sector is highly competitive. What are the advantages of choosing Freedom Boat Club?
As a member of the Brunswick Group, a Freedom Boat Club franchisee enjoys privileged access to an extensive portfolio of premium brands and services. In fact, this collaboration brings them facilities and advantages with group brands such as Brunswick Boat Group, Mercury Propulsion, Mercury Parts & Accessories and Brunswick Boating Services. We also have a partnership with the insurer Pantaenius, enabling our franchisees to benefit from negotiated conditions.
What's more, our model has been around since 1989 and has proven its profitability. It offers high gross margin potential and requires a low payroll.
Are new openings on the agenda?
We are in advanced discussions with several candidates. The model appeals. The Freedom Boat Club combines boating and the sharing economy. Responsible boating is changing the way boaters approach their hobby. This sharing economy, the exchange of knowledge and integration into a boating community are values sought by the 53,000 Freedom Boat Club members worldwide.
