Q: What does "Skookum" mean and where does it come from.
A: "Skookum" comes from the Chinook language and has a broad range of meanings. Accented on the first syllable, it can be anything from a replacement for kloshe, meaning "good," to "strong," "powerful," "ultimate" and "first rate." Something can be skookum meaning "cool" or skookum can be "tough." A skookum burger is a big hamburger, but when your Mom’s food is skookum, it’s delicious. If you have a skookum tumtum, you’re brave. Skookumchuck is a river rapid or strong current. If you skookum wawa you’re begging, pleading or you’ve constructed your arguments well. The Democratic Club of Seattle was once called the Skookum Club. When you’re skookum, you’ve got a purpose and you’re on solid ground. Skookum is the opposite of cultus. Skookum is power and strength.
Q: What is the business?
A: Skookum Tools…’the tool store at your door’ has developed a unique format, system and marketing plan for the distribution of cutting tools, sharpening services, shop supplies and related consumable products to industrial users.
Q: What experience is required?
A: Operating any business requires common sense, commitment, the ability to communicate with customers, a friendly helpful attitude and a strong work ethic. Previous experience in customer service, basic sales, and/or in any ‘trade’ would be helpful.
Q: What does it cost to get into this business?
A: Ideally you will need $20,000 to $30,000 in start-up capital for your Skookum Tools franchise. Additional funding requirements will vary depending on financing, equipment choices, personal budget, etc. You’ll get a better idea of your overall costs when you attend a Skookum Tools opportunity webinar.
Q: What kind of overhead costs are there?
A: Given the mobile nature of the business, overhead costs are relatively low ranging from $1500 to $3500 per month.
Q: Are franchisees required to make royalty payments?
A: No, Skookum Tools charges no royalty fees of franchise owners.
Q: How soon can I expect my business to be profitable?
A: The Skookum Tools prototype achieved profitable status within the first year, however, mainstream franchise literature suggests the average business takes 3-5 years from start-up to do so.
Q: What kind of money can I expect to make in this business?
A: Skookum Tools operating history shows strong potential for 6-figure incomes.
Q: What training is provided?
A: Prior to opening a franchise territory, a Skookum Tools franchisee is immersed in a comprehensive 10 day ‘training camp’, including several days of theory plus hands-on experience in the field. Ongoing support and periodic training sessions on specific product groups are also offered.
Q: What about advertising and promotions?
A: Skookum Tools has established a corporate brand which extends to each franchise. Franchise owners are responsible for their own advertising, however, promotional templates for flyers, letterhead, email stationery and business cards are provided.
Q: Is there a protected market territory?
A: Skookum Tools philosophy is to make every franchisee as successful as possible. Each franchise owner is granted a large defined territory sufficient to permit ample opportunity to grow the business while providing a high standard of personalized service to area customers.
Q: I don’t see my area on the presentation schedule. When will you be coming here?
A: The Skookum Tools franchise plan has been established with a view to sustainable success. Your area may be next on our strategic plan – lets talk!
Q: How long a term is the Franchise Agreement?
A: The initial term is for five years with an option to renew.
Q: Can the business be sold or transferred during the term of the Agreement?
A: The short answer is ‘Yes’. Some conditions apply and the franchisor retains the right of first refusal to purchase the business.
Q: What is the next step to becoming a Skookum Tools Franchisee?
A: Attend a Skookum Tools franchise opportunity presentation by clicking on your region of interest in the column to the left titled "Franchise Information" and fill out the information form. Upon receipt of this information our Franchise Development Representative will contact you to discuss this exciting opportunity.
