Style Encore: Redefining Women's Fashion Resale

Style Encore, established in 2013, is a premier franchise specializing in the buying and selling of gently used women's casual and business apparel, shoes, handbags, and accessories. Founded in the United States, the brand operates under the umbrella of Winmark Corporation, a leader in the resale-retail industry.

‍Style Encore is headquartered in Minneapolis, Minnesota, and it began franchising the same year it was founded.

The franchise offers a diverse range of high-quality, gently used women’s clothing and accessories, catering to fashion-conscious women in their late 20s to mid-50s. Customers can bring in their gently used items and receive cash on the spot, while also shopping for fashionable pieces at up to 50% - 70% off regular retail prices.

This model supports both affordability and convenience, making it an appealing option for both buyers and sellers. What sets Style Encore apart from competitors is its strong emphasis on sustainability and community engagement. The brand helps recycle millions of clothing items annually, reducing textile waste and promoting eco-friendly shopping habits.

Training

The Style Encore® franchise provides several forms of training for its franchisees to ensure successful operation of the business. Here's a breakdown of the training programs offered:

1. Initial Training Program – First Session
   The first part of the training program is designed to educate franchisees on general business operations. This includes topics such as real estate matters, business plan development, inventory management, point-of-sale systems, purchasing used products, and Franchisor’s preferred vendor program. This session typically lasts at least four days and is held in Minneapolis, Minnesota, online, or another designated location.
2. Initial Training Program – Second Session
   The second part focuses more on operational skills including sales and marketing, inventory purchasing, computer operations, and store management. The duration is generally at least five days and is scheduled by the Franchisor. Franchisees must successfully complete both training sessions to be authorized to manage their store.
3. Opening Assistance
   Prior to opening, Style Encore® offers pre-opening assistance and helps with scheduling and preparing for the store’s grand opening.
4. Operations Manual Training
   Franchisees receive an Operations Manual that includes operational policies, standards, and best practices which they must comply with. This manual is updated periodically and may include electronic content.

Territory Protection

Style Encore® provides franchisees with an Exclusive Territory, typically a 3 to 5-mile radius, within which no other Style Encore® store will be established. This area is defined in the Franchise Agreement and based on demographics and traffic patterns.

However, the franchisor may still sell products or services using other brands within or outside this territory. Therefore, while direct brand competition is restricted, indirect competition is allowed.