Frequently Asked Questions
Q How much money can I make?
Once you've completed our online application and successfully completed an initial interview, we will provide you with our Franchise Disclosure Document which contains a section titled “Financial Analysis. This information was voluntarily submitted by our franchisees. The disclosed information includes gross sales, rent, labor, royalties, ad fund contribution and operating cash flow.
Q How long before I start to make money?
Since there are so many variables that go into answering this question, we do not ask our franchise owners to attempt to answer it; therefore we can't provide it to you. One of the major variables when calculating "time to cash flow positive" is debt service. Some franchisees open offices with no debt, while on the other end of the spectrum, other franchisees may take out loans for 70% to 75% of the total investment required. Again, we encourage you to speak with our existing and/or former franchisees to learn more about the length of time it took them to reach the point where their business was cash flow positive.
Q How much will buying a Solartech franchise cost?
The total investment to open a Solartech office ranges from R200,000 to R450,000
Q What are Solartech's royalties?
There are no royalties. A management fee of R3000 is payable each month.
Q Can I keep my job and start a Solartech franchise?
Although this requires total focus, it is possible as long as you have the correct infrastructure and people in place. Once you become qualified by our Franchise Development team you'll be encouraged to start talking with our franchisees – most of whom kept their professional job while opening up their first Solartech office. This is not an absentee business, it's a manager-run business; and we recruit franchisees that know how to manage the manager.
Q What if I want to work at it full time?
You're welcome to do so. You will likely achieve success at a faster pace if you're able to devote full-time attention to the business.
Q Do I need to know how to install a Solar Geyser?
Yes it is advised, however approximately 95% of our franchisees didn't know how anything about plumbing and electrical work when they joined our system, and most of them still don't know how to install a solar geyser years after becoming a franchisee. Your mission is to manage and lead your staff and grow your business.
Q How does Solartech differ from their competition?
Solartech has grown to become Africa's largest owner managed solar geyser brand by providing a hi tech-hi touch quality service, throughout South Africa. And we have a 5-year-and-counting, laser-like focus on these basic, but important elements.
Q How long does it take to open my office?
In general, 3-6 months is typical, but it will vary depending on a number of factors, namely, your commitment to developing a competent infrastructure.
Q How will I find staff?
By following and implementing our staff recruiting strategies. Our website attracts more than 100 applications every year throughout South Africa. Those applicants are forwarded immediately to our local franchisees.
Q How do I find a site?
By working closely with Solartech we will devote our time and effort to help you find a site.
