Licensed Affiliates - FAQ

The questions below address common questions regarding becoming a SHAKU™ Family Martial Arts licensed affiliate for a new "start up" school.  If you are an existing school Owner, please click here for additional information.

How much money will it cost to open a Martial Arts school?
If you have already decided to open a martial arts school, you have probably started the process of exploring what your "start-up" costs will be.  Rent deposits, mats, mirrors, equipment, software, and advertising are likely some of the items on your list.  As a SHAKU™ licensed affiliate, we will assist you with making smart spending choices for getting started.  You will also be able to take advantage of preferred pricing for everything you need through our negotiated discounts from suppliers.  Many new school owners make the mistake of spending all their money on the "look" of their school and then find themselves with little money left for things like advertising and support staff.  We will guide you through all the startup steps (including location selection) and ensure your first year in business comfortably fits your budget.

How much does it cost to acquire a SHAKU affiliate license? 
SHAKU™ is proud to promote a highly "inclusive" licensing fee structure that encompasses a wide range of otherwise costly benefits and services for a school operator.  Graduated levels of licensing are available to fit your school's budget.  Please complete a Request for Consideration form for current fee rates.

What do I receive as part of my affiliate licensing fee each month?

 Specifically, you will receive all the tools and support that you need to operate a successful martial arts school.  This will include...

 

§  Strong, clearly defined national brand

§  Established sales and marketing programs

§  Proven business model

§  Structured and organized curriculum (White Belt to Black Belt)

§  Custom Leadership Training Program curriculum

§  Professional written monthly student newsletter 

§  Defined territory

§  Detailed operations manual

§  Buying power with suppliers & software providers

§  Preferred rates for full insurance coverage (including sports injury)

§  Accounting and administration systems

§  Staff recruitment assistance & training

§  Customized operations software

§  Extensive interactive website

§  Comprehensive automated billing service

§  Multiple revenue streams

§  Extensive business planning and coaching

§  Student training on-line videos

§  In-depth education and training

§  Unparalleled on-going support

§  Hands-on school opening assistance

§  Packaged educational presentations

§  Part of a growing national network

§  Sharing of best practices

§  Cohesive and positive corporate culture

§  Corporate integrity

Are there any other mandatory fees payable to SHAKU™?
No.  Unlike some "franchise opportunities," SHAKU is proud to have no hidden or multiple fee charges in our system.  Our fee structure is fully disclosed up front and is the most competitive in the industry.  We also negotiate best pricing from approved suppliers for the benefit of our affiliates.  When appropriate, a regional advertising fund may be established for locations that will share a benefit in pooling together their advertising dollars.

What support can I expect to receive?
SHAKU™ Family Martial Arts will provide you with the tools and support needed to have your school become the recognized brand in your community. The support starts before the school opens. At the same time we train management and staff to deliver the SHAKU™ Family Martial Arts experience to the student. Once the school is opened we continue with on-going support in areas such as class curriculum, scheduling, marketing, and advertising.

Do I need martial arts experience?
No, but of course any experience you may have gained previously in the martial arts industry will help. More than anything, we are looking for people with who embrace our vision and high standards of student service. You are service oriented and are able to manage and lead people. Where one does not have martial arts experience we will assist you in hiring experienced and skilled martial arts Black Belt staff.

Will SHAKU™ Family Martial Arts provide training for me and at what cost?
Our training for you and your staff is thorough and complete. New licensed affiliates and new managers will visit one of our existing licensed locations to witness all aspects of school operations first hand.  Except for travel, accommodation and meals, there is no cost to you and your management team. You will open your SHAKU™ Family Martial Arts licensed school with a great amount of confidence and knowledge taking comfort in knowing you are backed by a system and people who will help you. 

What about a territory and location for the school?
SHAKU™ Family Martial Arts will define a territory and assist you with choosing the best location for your school.  Your territory will be defined within your licensed affiliate agreement.

How do I know if affiliating with SHAKU™ will be right for me? 

Your decision to seek a SHAKU™ affiliate license will depend on the goals you have set for you and your family. The SHAKU™ system is designed to provide each school owner with financial, instructional, and operational tools and coaching that will enable you to attain the levels of success that you desire. We are seeking to award affiliate licenses to the best candidates we can find who are seeking an opportunity to join us in building a family of like minded, progressive thinking and skilled school operators who share our values and are committed to being part of Canada's most recognized and respected martial arts schools.

What is the next step?
If you wish to proceed in investigating SHAKU™ Family Martial Arts as a licensed affiliate you will need to complete a Request for Consideration. Once the information is received and it is determined you meet the initial qualifications, you will be contacted for a telephone interview and an exchange of information will commence.