Some frequently asked questions

What is the initial investment required?

Your total investment for a single unit ranges from $95,000 – $145,000. This includes the franchise fee, shop build out, equipment, inventory, advertising and marketing to open your shop.

How do I become a Vintner’s Circle Franchise Candidate?

To get started quickly use our “Contact Us” form to let us know you’re interested. The next step is to complete and submit a franchise application. Once we have reviewed your information, a Franchise representative will contact you to discuss the next steps in our discovery process.

Does Vintner’s Circle provide financing?

Vintner’s Circle does not offer direct financing. However, we have established a list of lenders who have expressed an interest in working with our Franchise, which we can provide to you upon request.

How much can I make as a Vintner’s Circle franchisee?

The profitability of a Vintner’s Circle winemaking shop can vary greatly, depending upon many factors. Some factors can include the location of your shop, sales volume, rent costs and other overheads. Ultimately, it’s your ability at building and managing a staff, how you market, and how you oversee the financial aspects of the business that will impact your bottom line. We do not predict the sales or profitability of any shop. In the end, the results of your shop will be heavily influenced by your direct involvement in the day-to-day operations and how you ultimately manage your business.

What type of experience is necessary?

You do not need any wine making experience, but you do need to have a genuine passion and love for wine! We look for candidates that can build strong customer relationships, have upstanding community involvement, possess a desire to succeed by following a proven system and a clear passion for the wine lifestyle. Prior sales and marketing experience is desired, but not necessary.

What makes Vintner’s Circle Franchise internal systems different?

Our systems were created by us according to strict development guidelines. Our systems are extremely user-friendly; therefore, you don’t need to be computer literate to operate it. We continually enhance our systems and processes and we are committed to secure on-line systems. Our systems provide you with the ability to track sales and run operations; they also provide valuable accounting and marketing information. You’ll be able to track your customers’ sales and create records for highly targeted marketing programs.

Will Vintner’s Circle locate a site for me?

Vintner’s Circle will assist you in researching site demographics and locating the best possible site for your shop. Our team of professionals, we help you enter lease negotiations to secure the most favorable terms. Ultimately, you are responsible to approve the final lease agreement.

How will I get my Vintner’s Circle built?

Vintner’s Circle offers a complete modular approach to your build out. There is a small amount of construction that must be done before you can fixture your location. This construction may be handled either by you or a local contractor.

Does Vintner’s Circle offer volume discounts?

Yes. We have buying power that allows all of our franchisees to enjoy discounts and/or rebates from vendors and carriers. You will receive pricing discounts that come only from being a part of a large organization that negotiates on your behalf.

What does Vintner’s Circle training include?

Vintner’s Circle offers complete training on all aspects of our business. When you finish our training, you will be familiar with wine making, inventory management, basic accounting principles, our internal communication systems and branded marketing initiatives. You will leave with a detailed business and marketing plan with action strategies. The on-line training program will allow you to participate hands-on in all areas of operating and managing a Vintner’s Circle shop. We continue your training by offering ongoing corporate and on-line education classes and each year we hold an annual two day Franchisee Conference where we celebrate our successes, inspire and motivate!

What if I have questions after my training class is over?

Vintner’s Circle provides a telephone number that is staffed with our highly professional and qualified support team. We also provide you with a complete set of online proprietary manuals that are concise and easy to use.