In today’s world, successful businesses are not just about profits—they’re about purpose. As entrepreneurs, franchisees have a unique opportunity to make a tangible impact on their communities while building their businesses.
At Winmark - the Resale Company®, this philosophy is at the heart of everything we do. With our franchised brands—Plato’s Closet®, Once Upon A Child®, Style Encore®, Play It Again Sports®, and Music Go Round®—we’ve created a resale format that not only supports local economies but also fosters sustainable practices and meaningful connections.
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A Purpose-Driven Business
Winmark brands are designed to serve as community anchors. Each store helps extend the product life spans of high-quality, gently used items, providing affordable options for local communities while reducing waste. For example, with Play It Again Sports, athletes, young and old, can pursue their favorite sports without breaking the bank on new equipment. Similarly, Once Upon a Child is North America’s leading retail resale franchise for kids, providing high-quality, gently used children’s clothing, toys, equipment, and accessories to meet the needs of babies.
This blend of affordability, attainability, quality, and sustainability resonates deeply with today’s consumers. Beyond meeting consumer demand, Winmark’s stores empower franchisees to address local needs and provide real solutions to their communities.
Economic Impact at the Local Level
Owning a Winmark brand franchise is more than just operating a business—it’s about building a thriving local enterprise. With over 1300 locations across North America, our franchisees directly contribute to the economic health of their neighborhoods by creating jobs, supporting other local businesses, and keeping dollars circulating within their communities.
The financial impact goes even deeper: up to 47% of our franchisees manage multiple stores, often combining locations across our franchised brands. This multi-unit, cross-brand ownership not only diversifies portfolios but also increases their reach and impact within their local areas.
Fostering Sustainability and Community Connections
Through our resale model and a commitment to sustainability, Winmark franchisees conserve their communities. Since 2010, Winmark franchisees have kept 1.8 billion items in circulation, which reduces environmental waste while providing retail consumers with high-quality options. But the connection doesn’t stop at sustainability—it extends to the relationships built with customers.
Whether it’s a parent finding the perfect back-to-school outfit at Style Encore or a teen scoring a unique piece at Plato’s Closet, Winmark franchisees can interact with locals and foster a sense of trust and loyalty that makes each store a valued hub in its community. This trust comes from the personalized experiences our franchisees deliver—experiences tailored to meet each neighborhood's unique needs.
Empowering Entrepreneurs
With over 35 years of experience in franchising, Winmark is committed to helping people achieve their entrepreneurial dreams. We partner with our franchisees to create meaningful and successful businesses, and we support them throughout their business journeys with the tools, training, and resources they need.
This proven support system has driven exceptional success within our franchise network. 99% of our franchisees choose to renew their agreements, a testament to the trust and effectiveness of our partnership. When you invest in a Winmark franchise, you’re investing in more than just a business—you have the opportunity to build a legacy in your community and join a network committed to your growth.
Are you interested in creating a purpose-driven business? Explore the possibilities with Winmark today. Together, we can build stronger communities.