The Great Frame Up was founded in 1971 in Chicago’s Lincoln Park neighborhood and began franchising in 1975. Today, it is headquartered in St. Peters, Missouri, and operates as part of Franchise Concepts Inc., which also owns Deck The Walls and Framing & Art Centre.

The franchise specializes in custom framing services, offering a wide array of frames, mats, glass options, and art prints. Customers can also choose from in-stock frames, framed and unframed art, and an extensive catalog of posters and prints.

A unique feature of the stores is the vertical viewing board, which allows customers to preview their artwork with various mat and frame combinations.

The Great Frame Up stands out by focusing on customer satisfaction and personalized service. Each location provides a warm, gallery-like setting where experienced staff help guide customers through the design process.

Training

The Great Frame Up franchise offers a comprehensive training structure designed to equip franchisees and their teams for business success.

1. Initial Management Training Program: The company provides an initial management training program for two individuals (typically the owner and a principal operator), held at a designated location before the store opens. This training includes instruction and materials covered by the franchisor, although all other expenses such as accommodations, travel, and wages are borne by the franchisee.
2. Sales & Management Training Program: This additional program may be made mandatory at the franchisor’s discretion and focuses on enhancing operational and leadership skills relevant to running the franchise.
3. Policy & Procedures Manual: Franchisees receive one copy of this manual, which outlines operations, standards, and best practices. This serves as an ongoing resource and is periodically updated by the franchisor.

Territory Protection

The Great Frame Up franchise does not offer exclusive territorial protection to its franchisees. While franchisees are granted a defined territory—typically a three-mile radius around their store—this area is not exclusive.

Franchisees may face competition from other franchisees, company-owned outlets, or other distribution channels operated by the franchisor. The franchisor reserves the right to sell through alternative methods or brands that it controls, even within or near the defined territory.

Additionally, relocating a store within the same territory or to a different location requires prior approval from the franchisor. Therefore, while a defined operational area is given, it does not provide protection from encroachment or internal competition.