Loading ...Like many other Children’s Orchard franchise owners, Carol Fisher’s love for the store started long before she actually bought into the business. She was actually a customer for nine years before she bought a franchise location in Torrance, CA in 2005.
“I found Children’s Orchard when my daughter was born nine years ago,” Fisher said. “Now, almost everything I buy is resale, even my own clothes.”
At the time she started shopping at Children’s Orchard, Fisher was working as a consultant for property management companies. Fisher would travel the country helping to train property managers in things such as sales, customer service and marketing.
However, after Fisher had twin boys about five years ago, she knew her days of extensive business travel were over. It was around that time that the nearest Children’s Orchard franchise in Torrance went up for sale.
“I told my husband about it and he suggested since I shop at Children’s Orchard so frequently, I should look into buying the store,” Fisher said. “The location of the store was also close to home and the business offered the flexibility in my life that I really wanted. And I can buy great outfits for my kids all the time,” she joked.
While admitting that the process of opening her own business was tough at first, Fisher said it is important to stick with it. Fisher said the first year there were times when she felt she was drowning but that support from Children’s Orchard corporate office helped her through the process. “The support I had from the home office was crucial,” Fisher said. “Each year since I’ve opened I’ve seen marked improvement in the business.”
Now in her fourth year of operation, Fisher says she is happy with her decision to open a Children’s Orchard. When it comes to giving advice to other mothers looking to open their own business, Fisher stresses that becoming part of the community where you are located is key. Fisher, who also lives in Torrance, said grass-roots marketing has been her biggest asset.
“Whether I am at the gym or the grocery store, I am always able to market Children’s Orchard to everyone I come across.”
About Children’s Orchard
Founded in 1980, Children’s Orchard is the nation’s first franchise of gently used and new name-brand children’s items. With more than 60 franchise locations, each Children’s Orchard location buys and sells quality used and new children’s brand name clothing, toys and accessories in an upscale retail environment. Children’s Orchard stores are designed to emphasize quality, value, comfort and commitment to the local community. For more information, please visit the website at www.childrensorchard.com or call (800) 999-KIDS.
