Access Garage Doors is a U.S.-based franchise offering homeowners and commercial clients expert services in garage door sales, installation, maintenance, and repairs. Founded in 2005 in Chattanooga, Tennessee, the company was established by its CEO Jesse Cox and originally operated out of an apartment-converted workshop before expanding into a full-service operation.

Headquartered in Hixson, Tennessee, near Chattanooga, Access Garage Doors operates under its franchisor parent company Open Doors Inc. The brand began franchising in 2019 after refining its business model and operational systems.

Access sells and services a wide range of products, including residential and commercial garage doors, from basic non-insulated models to premium custom wood designs, along with electric openers and accessories.

The company stands out through its streamlined, home-based franchise model that eliminates the need for a large showroom, offering a lower initial investment compared to many construction-related franchises.

Training

Access Garage Doors® provides franchisees with a comprehensive training program that covers both pre-opening and ongoing operational needs. The training is structured as follows:

1. Self-Study Program
   Immediately after signing the Franchise Agreement, franchisees receive self-study materials designed to prepare them for the formal training. This program serves as foundational education in the Access Garage Doors® system.
2. Initial Training Program
   The franchisor offers a primary training program within 60 days of signing the agreement. It is designed to train up to three people at no cost. Additional participants can join for a fee. The program focuses on operational skills, management strategies, service delivery, customer acquisition, and more.
3. Supplemental and Refresher Training
   Franchisees, owners, or managers may be required to attend ongoing training programs during the term of the agreement. This ensures updated knowledge on systems, processes, and best practices.
4. Guidance and Business Operation Support
   The franchisor also provides operational guidance by sharing insights and challenges from other franchisees and company-owned businesses. Topics include ordering, customer service, pricing strategies, hiring, and marketing.

Territory Protection

Access Garage Doors® provides franchisees with a defined Protected Territory, though it is not exclusive in the traditional sense. The territory is determined based on factors such as population, household income, housing demographics, competition, and market potential.

While only one franchisee is permitted to operate an Access Garage Doors® business within a given territory, the franchisor and other franchisees retain rights to sell products and perform services in other areas without compensation to the local franchisee.

Despite this protection, Access Garage Doors® allows for certain exceptions. Franchisees cannot perform services or target marketing outside their territory, especially in areas assigned to other franchisees. However, they may serve customers who independently seek them out, provided the activity does not involve direct solicitation or marketing efforts beyond their designated area.