Abrakadoodle: Inspiring Creativity Through Mobile Art Education

Abrakadoodle stands out as a prominent name in the field of art education, offering enriching creative programs for both kids and adults. Since its founding in 2002 by experienced educators Mary Rogers and Rosemarie Hartnett, the franchise has aimed to fill the gap left by diminishing art resources in schools.

Their vision was to create a comprehensive, accessible approach to art instruction.

Based in Sterling, Virginia, Abrakadoodle launched its franchise model in early 2004. The company provides aspiring business owners with a chance to make an impact in their communities by delivering high-quality art education services.

The business operates using a flexible, mobile model that enables franchisees to run the business from home—without the need for a physical storefront. Offerings include a wide array of classes, camps, parties, and special events, all designed to foster creativity in participants of all ages.

Training

Abrakadoodle provides a multi-tiered training system to ensure that franchisees and their staff are well-prepared to operate the business successfully. The training includes pre-launch preparation, formal instruction, and ongoing development programs.

1. Quick Start Training
   This is a pre-training phase involving self-directed activities at the franchisee’s home office. It includes online manual study, media review, business setup, and consultations with training specialists. Completion of this phase is mandatory before attending formal training.
2. Business Development Training
   This five-day training occurs in the Washington, D.C. area or online and begins within 30 days of signing the franchise agreement. It covers operational aspects, curriculum delivery, marketing, and use of the system. The franchise covers basic training costs for up to two attendees, but franchisees bear all travel and living expenses.
3. Training for Additional and Replacement Personnel
   Any new or replacement manager must complete the same training, and if more than one replacement occurs within two years, additional fees apply. The same structure and content as the initial Business Development Training is used. Scheduling is subject to franchisor availability.
4. Annual Conferences and Follow-Up Training
   Franchisees are required to attend an annual regional, national, or international seminar covering updates in business, marketing, and education. Remedial or follow-up training may also be mandated based on performance and is subject to additional fees.

Territory Protection

Abrakadoodle offers protected territories to its franchisees, which are clearly defined by ZIP codes and/or county boundaries. A local territory generally includes up to 20,000 qualifying households, while regional territories may encompass 50,000 to 60,000 households.

Once assigned, the franchisor agrees not to sell another franchise that overlaps the designated territory, and any changes to this territory typically occur only during renewal or transfer, with conditions such as updated quotas or reduced boundaries.

However, the protection is not absolute. While Abrakadoodle refrains from establishing identical franchised units within a franchisee’s territory, it reserves broad rights for national or regional marketing and the ability to serve large-scale clients within any area, including franchisee territories.