Expense Reduction Analysts (now ERA Group) is a global cost-management consultancy franchise. It was founded in 1984 in the UK and later incorporated in the U.S. in September 2002. The company is headquartered in Addison, Texas, with its international headquarters in Kent, UK.

ERA began franchising in 1993 and now operates over 700 units across more than 30 countries. They offer individual Area Representative and Regional Franchise licenses, a model started in November 2002.

Franchisees provide strategic cost-reduction consulting in areas like printing, telecoms, logistics, and supplies. ERA employs a transparent “No Savings, No Fee” structure—clients pay only when savings are realized.

ERA differentiates itself through its proven methodology, collaborative delivery by global experts, and heavy support infrastructure.

Training

Expense Reduction Analysts provides a structured training program to prepare franchisees to operate their Consulting Business effectively. The training is divided into several components:

1. Component 1: Pre-Learning Program
   This involves 10 online courses accessed via their e-learning platform. These courses cover essential foundational topics such as IT systems, an introduction to ERA, marketing practices, key methodologies and procedures, the use of ERA Manuals, CEL/CEA modules, and sales strategies. This segment requires about 12–15 hours of online training to be completed before attending in-person training.
2. Component 2: Foundational Training Program
   Conducted over two weeks, this in-person training occurs at the ERA Academy in Kent, England, or other designated venues, including online formats as needed. It consists of 80 hours and includes topics like ERA introductions, category understanding, goal setting, their 10-step methodology, CEL processes, IT tools, and sales processes.
3. Additional Training
   Franchisees can request further training for specific operational issues. While ERA may not charge for these sessions if conducted remotely or as part of required meetings, the franchisee is responsible for travel and accommodation costs.

Territory Protection

Expense Reduction Analysts does not provide exclusive territory protection to its franchisees. Each franchisee is granted a non-exclusive Area within which they may operate their Consulting Business.

However, the Franchisor reserves the right to operate or authorize others to operate within the same geographic region, meaning there is no contractual guarantee that competition will be limited in any area.

Additionally, while franchisees may serve clients within their designated Area, the Franchisor and ERAC retain exclusive rights over certain account types such as ERA Threshold Accounts and ERAC Accounts.