1851

<a href="https://lightbridgeacademyfranchise.com/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=lightbridge-academy-launches-new-center-management-software-systemwide-to-create-deeper-connection-between-families-teachers-staff-and-students-2715939" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Lightbridge Academy</a>, an early education and child care franchise with more than 50 locations open across the Mid-Atlantic and another 50 under construction or in development, announced it is deploying a powerful new center-management tool, Lightbridge Journey, to all of its centers by mid-June 2021.Under development since 2018, Lightbridge Journey provides a single cohesive, 360-degree touchpoint for parents, staff and center directors. The result of this centralized resource is increased operational efficiency, reduced operational costs and additional time spent on direct care and support of children.&nbsp;Available on a phone, tablet or the web, Lightbridge Journey was developed in conjunction with educational management software company <a href="https://www.momentpath.com/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=lightbridge-academy-launches-new-center-management-software-systemwide-to-create-deeper-connection-between-families-teachers-staff-and-students-2715939" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">MomentPath</a>. It has been deployed at approximately 28 Lightbridge Academy centers so far. During the initial rollout, Lightbridge Journey saved 28 centers an additional 336 hours of time, allowing them almost an entire day per week to spend on relationship building with center families.“The whole idea of the Lightbridge Journey app centers on this: If we can free the center directors and staff from administrative grunt work, we open up time for them to spend more time focused on the needs of the child and the parents,” said Benjamin Blake, Lightbridge Academy’s chief information officer. “Additionally, it enhances our center directors’ ability to look after the needs of teachers who are taking direct care of the children. And that is probably the most powerful aspect of the whole project.”<h4>Transparency for Parents</h4>Lightbridge Journey provides increased transparency to parents, by providing a direct line of communication between parents and the center, quick access to resources like “Peek of the Week” lesson plan previews and progress reports on their child’s development.Additionally, parents are never more than a click away from checking in on their child because the app provides real-time snapshots of what’s happening with their children through photos and videos of their children’s special moments and milestones as they happen. The app also lets parents have instant, 24/7 access to their billing and accounts.“Partnering with Lightbridge provides us with an incredible opportunity to further our mission of changing the way families and educators connect, one moment at a time. We pride ourselves on bringing the best in class experience for teachers and parents through the Lightbridge Journey application,” said MomentPath CEO, Caitlin Coffman.<h4>Enhanced Home-School Connection</h4>The app doesn’t stop working when children leave the center, it works as the central hub for that home-school connection. The app provides the ability to drop off notes between parents and teachers, messaging that goes directly to the child’s teacher, and offers a central resource for reminders about necessary forms, documents and other important paperwork.“Parents love it because they're now able to directly communicate with the teachers,” said Blake. “That's more important now than ever as we navigate through the COVID-19 pandemic when parents don’t have the ability to come into the centers. This helps re-establish the parent-teacher relationship because now they can easily message back and forth on this application, even if they’re socially distanced. Parents can get real time notifications of exactly what their child is doing, or even a picture of or a video of them during the day.”<h4>Efficiency for Administrators</h4>For administrators, Lightbridge Journey provides all-in-one planning, scheduling, billing and even security in one central location, helping them reduce paperwork and spend more time with children.&nbsp;North Carolina Lightbridge Academy franchise owner Rebecca Grovenstein says the app provides powerful planning tools for her when running her business. “The reports can show us forecasting with billing and enrollments from one month to four months out, and will track attendance of our children,” she said. “This all helps us, as owners, to make decisions with purchasing, employment and growth of the business when setting goals."“We estimated that we’ve saved more than 60 hours per month between teachers and admins in locations that we’ve deployed the Lightbridge App,” said Blake. “And that’s its purpose, to free up time so teachers can spend more time actually teaching.”Lightbridge Academy Center Technology Manager <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/shannon-kelly-621ab1b7?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=lightbridge-academy-launches-new-center-management-software-systemwide-to-create-deeper-connection-between-families-teachers-staff-and-students-2715939" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Shannon Kelly</a> has had two children go through Lightbridge’s early education program already, and now has a two-year-old enrolled at one of the centers. She understands the value of the app both as a parent and as an administrator.&nbsp;“The Lightridge Journey app has been great for me because I can be at the office and I can go into the app and say, ‘Oh, he's taking a nap right now,’” she said. “I can stop at the food store right now instead, rather than go to the center and wake him up from his nap.”But she’s seen the benefits for teachers as well. Previously, the Peek of the Week lesson plan preview that was sent to parents required multiple steps and staff to be able to get it to parents.&nbsp;“Now, Peek of the Week is generated automatically as soon as the teachers put in their lesson plans,” Kelly said. “That alone saved us something like 36 hours a month.”About Lightbridge Academy®Established in 1997, Guy and Julia Falzarano founded the company based on core values and a Circle of Care philosophy that places equal importance on the needs of children, their families, teachers, center owners and the community. Lightbridge Academy provides early education and child care to children ages six weeks through kindergarten, as well as special programming for children up to 10 years old for summer camp and a new school age remote learning program. The company franchised in 2011 to expand their distinctive concept throughout the Mid-Atlantic region; it currently has over 119 child care centers either open, under construction or in development throughout Florida, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Tennessee and Virginia.

Lightbridge Academy Launches New Center Management Software Systemwide To Create Deeper Connection Between Families, Teachers, Staff and Students

1851 Franchise

By reducing paperwork, automating admin tasks and improving communication, the groundbreaking Lightbridge Journey App will result in a better educational experience for all. 

This brand page has been paid for by 1851. Content within this page that is paid will showcase a Sponsored icon. This means the brand has engaged 1851 FRANCHISE to write the content. Content without the Sponsored Icon is aggregated media placements the brand earned. Questions can be sent to editorial@1851franchise.com

lightbridge-academy-launches-new-center-management-software-systemwide-to-create-deeper-connection-between-families-teachers-staff-and-students

FSC Franchise Co.

Photo of Brass Tap team member serving two guests

How FSC Franchise Co. Supports Franchise Owners' Success

support-franchisees-system-growth

Beef 'O' Brady's

Design with Beef 'O' Brady's logo and food spread

How Much Does It Cost to Open a Beef ‘O’ Brady’s Franchise?

franchise-cost-investment-requirements

Design with photo of Mangesh Patel, Beef ‘O’ Brady’s

Veteran Hospitality Leader Mangesh Patel Sets Sights on Central Georgia With Major Multi-Unit Deal

mangesh-patel-macon-georgia-expansion

Griswold

Griswold Caregiver in Hawaii Awarded National Scholarship While Pursuing Social Work Degree

Aloha State Daily: Griswold Caregiver in Hawaii Awarded National Scholarship While Pursuing Social Work Degree

griswold-caregiver-national-scholarship-hawaii

With Three Brands, FSC Realizes Food Cost Savings Through Scale

with-three-brands-fsc-realizes-food-cost-savings-through-scale

Buying a Franchise Masterclass

 Franchise Opportunities

Get Support Buying a Franchise

How to Buy a Franchise White Paper

How to Buy a Franchise

How to Sell Franchises

How to Grow a Franchise

Find a Franchise Supplier

1851 Franchise Opportunities

Franchisor News

Franchisor Power Rankings

FranCamp Mastermind Summit

Franchise Development Website Builder

Franchise Resources

The Top 10 Low-Cost Franchises With High ROI 

Website Awards

Power Rankings

About 1851

Advertise on 1851

Contact 1851 Editorial

Terms of Use

1851 Login

GROWTH CLUB LOGIN

facebook

instagram

twitter

linkedin

youtube

KKR to Acquire Nothing Bundt Cakes in $2 Billion Deal -  1851 Franchise

KKR to Acquire Nothing Bundt Cakes in $2 Billion Deal

nothing-bundt-cakes-kkr-acquisition

FTC Settlement Puts New Focus on Franchise Disclosure Standards - 1851 Franchise

FTC Settlement Puts New Focus on Franchise Disclosure Standards

franchise-disclosure-violations-xponential-fitness-lawsuit-ftc

Applebee’s Franchisee Files for Bankruptcy as Dine Brands Moves to Acquire 53 Units - 1851 Franchise

Applebee’s Franchisee Files for Bankruptcy as Dine Brands Moves to Acquire 53 Units

applebees-franchisee-bankruptcy-neighborhood-restaurant-partners

Why Skilled Trades Are Emerging as the Economy’s Most AI-Resilient Careers

ai-skilled-trades-authority-brands

The Penny Shortage Is Creating a New Risk for QSR Franchise Systems - 1851 Franchise

The Penny Shortage Is Creating a New Risk for QSR Franchise Systems

penny-shortage-restaurants-franchise-compliance

Franchise Opportunity Deep Dive: A fast-casual restaurant brand serving made-from-scratch sandwiches, salads, soups and pizzas rooted in Southern hospitality.


Newk’s Eatery Franchise Costs, Fees, Profit and Data for 2026

newks-eatery-franchise-costs-fees-profit

Visiting Angels Franchise Costs, Fees, Profit and Data for 2026

Franchise Opportunity Deep Dive: Visiting Angels is a senior home care franchise focused on in-home support for seniors and individuals with disabilities.

visiting-angels-franchise-costs-fees-profit

Pause Franchise Costs, Fees, Profit and Data for 2025

Franchise Opportunity Deep Dive: Tech-forward wellness studios offering science-backed recovery services such as contrast therapy, infrared sauna, float, IV drips, cryotherapy, and more. 

pause-franchise-costs-fees-profit-and-data

Sparkle Dog Care Franchise Costs, Fees, Profit and Data for 2025

Franchise Opportunity Deep Dive: Sparkle Dog Care is a membership-based pet grooming franchise that blends wellness-focused hygiene services with small-box retail and community engagement.

sparkle-dog-care-franchise-costs-fees-profit-and-data

How much can franchisees make? It’s a question many prospective owners ask before investing in a franchise. While earnings tend to be driven by variables such as industry, location and general management skills, a proper understanding of the key factors driving profitability can help franchise owners develop expectations that are realistic.&nbsp;Multi-unit franchisee&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/mangesh-patel-9368569/">Mangesh Patel</a>, who’s readying the launch of six&nbsp;<a href="https://www.beefobradysfranchise.com/">Beef ‘O’ Brady’s</a> restaurant locations in the Macon, Georgia area, shares insights from his franchising experience.<h2>Understanding Franchise Income</h2>Keeping operational costs in check can have a major impact on overall earnings. Taking a proactive approach to expenses such as food and labor, as well as payroll and scheduling, can help align actual franchise income with general expectations for the business.“I just had a meeting with a couple of people, and they said, ‘You talked about a 25% profit margin, but I’m only doing 12%.’ So, I looked at the figures they sent me,” Patel said. “Their&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/calculate-restaurant-franchise-profit-2730476">restaurant</a> food cost was running at 37%, which should be around 30%. The national average is about 32%. If I do things correctly, my average food cost needs to be at or below 30%. And payroll should run around 18%. But many people run 25 to 28%.”So,&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/unraveling-franchise-earnings-how-much-can-you-really-make-2723935">how much can franchisees make</a>? Here are five areas to consider.<h2>Practical Tips for Prospective Franchisees</h2><ol><li>Control Costs From Day One:&nbsp;It’s important to monitor payroll, food and supply costs closely. Overstaffing and inefficiencies can quickly reduce profits.</li><li>Plan For The Opening Surge:&nbsp;Traffic within the first few months of opening is likely to be higher. It’s important to adjust staffing and inventory accordingly, and pay close attention to how those levels change as time goes on.</li><li>Invest In Training:&nbsp;Properly trained workers can help reduce waste and improve overall service, which has a direct effect on net income.</li><li>Understand Your Market:&nbsp;Each market is unique and revenue potential will vary depending upon location, demographics and competition.</li><li>Track Metrics Regularly:&nbsp;Food cost percentages, labor ratios and weekly sales data act as key indicators operations may need to be adjusted.</li></ol><h2>What Profitability Really Comes Down To</h2>Patel notes that if franchise owners manage labor and costs properly, it’s not impossible to achieve strong cash flow even in the first year, bucking some franchising trends.So,&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/how-much-can-you-make-as-a-franchise-owner-2724761">how much can franchisees make</a>? While results tend to vary, careful planning, disciplined operations and a proactive approach to assessing initial costs are essential. But by grasping and guiding the elements that drive franchise profitability, franchise owners can maximize overall business earnings, scaling a business that’s sustainable financially over the long term.Want to learn more about franchise opportunities on 1851 Franchise? Be sure to visit our&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/power-rankings">Power Rankings</a> to read more on brands making moves.

How much can franchisees make? This guide explains what drives franchise earnings and how to manage costs, with expert tips from multi-unit owner Mangesh Patel on maximizing your franchise income.

How Much Can Franchisees Make? A Guide for Prospective Franchise Owners

how-much-can-franchisees-make-a-guide-expert-tips

Franchising has long proven an attractive prospect for independent-minded entrepreneurs seeking ownership. Delivering a proven system – one properly-marketed and tweaked over time – has long been one of the single most powerful franchising hallmarks. But diving into the deep end before learning to swim is risky.&nbsp;Choosing the right option takes preparation and work. So, what is the best franchise to buy for beginners?“There's so much to consider,” says franchise attorney&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/mario-l-herman-b9258112a/">Mario Herman</a>. “A big part of my practice is reviewing FDDs and franchise agreements for prospective franchisees. I look for 50 separate things, including inconsistencies between disclosure documents and franchise agreements. And there's a lot of work involved. So, I’d say hire competent counsel with franchise experience.”<h2>Due Diligence</h2>For over three decades as a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.franchise-law.com/mario-l-herman-esq.shtml#">franchise attorney</a>, Mario Herman has represented clients from more than 150 franchise systems, further testifying as an expert witness, and stresses the importance of the due diligence process when pondering the question of what’s the best franchise to buy into for beginners.Before diving in, there’s a number of questions to ponder. What kind of capital, or access to it, do you realistically have? Perhaps a low initial investment is crucial. How involved do you want to be in the daily operation of the franchise – hands-on or semi-absentee? Do you want to build an office or retail setting? Maybe a remote opportunity is best.&nbsp;Performing strong due diligence can go a long way toward ensuring prospective franchisees select the right opportunity.&nbsp;“Yeah, I mean, that's franchising for beginners. There have been books, podcasts and all kinds of stuff written about that,” Herman said. “From issues involving future royalties to the liquidity and capitalization of the franchise – how long they've been in business and how many franchises in the past have terminated or gone out of business. When doing due diligence, contact those who are still in the system and those who are no longer part of it. There are multiple parties, and due diligence with all of them is important. The process typically takes three to six months or more for bigger deals.”<h2>Where To Look</h2>So what is the best franchise to buy for beginners? It’s a big question. Luckily, there’s answers.<h3>Health &amp; Wellness</h3>If it’s the idea of aligned values that makes franchising an attractive opportunity, there are opportunities in the health and wellness sector that play out in a number of settings, ranging from traditional brick and mortar to remote or mobile opportunities, allowing the potential franchisee to deliver a valuable service at the local level. Recovery studios offer the idea of escape in a private, stress-free setting while fitness franchises continue to grow following the pandemic.<a href="https://1851franchise.com/top-10-gym-and-fitness-franchises-the-best-investment-opportunities-for-2025-2729614#stories">Pure Fitness</a> offers a high-value, low-price model in a 24/7 setting which helps build a diverse clientele while delivering health benefits within the community.<h3>Home &amp; Maintenance Services</h3>Touting a recession-resistant nature, home and maintenance services continue to flourish due to aging infrastructure and technological advancements that can protect valuable home investments.With a lower overhead and a more flexible, scalable business model, home and maintenance service franchises offer potential franchise owners a greater work-life balance, boasting home-based options. And unlike other industries,&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/the-top-10-home-service-franchises-to-consider-2727601#stories">home services</a> draw consistent demand, allowing for stability while reducing startup costs.&nbsp;The unique combination of stability, lower investment risk and the ability to scale fast can offer a more accessible path to franchise ownership. Access Garage Doors maintains a specialized model, focusing on the installation and repair of garage doors with a low initial investment of about $50,000.<h3>Sustainable, Eco-Friendly</h3>Aligned values have driven many a beginner toward the idea of sustainable, eco-friendly franchise options.In the cleaning sphere, residential and commercial cleaning/janitorial services offer largely remote-based opportunities with lower overhead that provide a valuable, largely recurring revenue stream that’s safe and dependable.Solar energy franchises often require an initial investment starting under six figures, a drastic departure from the nationally-marketed brands that tend to define the idea of franchising for the beginner. Focused on the installation of solar panels for homes and businesses, this rapidly growing realm helps reduce reliance on fossil fuels, encouraging sustainability.<a href="https://1851franchise.com/ecomaids">Ecomaids</a> features professional, non-toxic and eco-friendly home and commercial cleaning services in a primarily mobile setting which lowers overall costs.<h3>Tech-Driven Food &amp; Retail</h3>The quick onset of tech like AI, robotics and automation has begun to upend the restaurant industry experience, increasing efficiency while delivering crucial data to the astute franchise owner – as well as franchisees looking to assess the best franchises to buy in 2026.Some restaurants have experimented with concepts like AI drive-thrus while other franchised chains, especially in the pizza sector, have toyed with the concept of fully automated kitchens, lowering overhead while addressing the tricky idea of staff retention.Domino’s Pizza has utilized robotics to drive consistent production of pizza while enlisting automation as a significant part of the delivery process. Elsewhere, Donato’s has experimented with fully automated kitchens.&nbsp;POS systems simplify while delivering data and in the retail setting while AI can assist with real time inventory and supply chain management, improving logistics while reining in costs.<a href="https://1851franchise.com/batteries-plus-bulbs-community-driven-approach-and-proprietary-products-continue-to-bring-in-returning-customers-2712298">Batteries Plus</a> uses tech to manage an extensive product selection while many chains use it to encourage ideas like ordering online or curbside delivery.<h2>The Takeaway</h2>So, what is the best franchise to buy for beginners? The answer to that question requires a proactive look within, honestly assessing ideas like available funds, desired work-life balance, and preferred location.&nbsp;Proper due diligence can help the prospective franchisee accurately assess opportunities in franchising realms ranging anywhere from health and wellness to eco-friendly cleaning or even the restaurant industry.But as the old adage goes, buyer beware. Teaming with qualified counsel to take a deep dive into any opportunity can go a long way toward properly assessing the best franchises to buy in 2026.“There’s an old saying in franchising: ‘If you can fog a mirror, you can buy a franchise,’” Herman said. “Many people think buying a franchise is like a cookie-cutter system where everything will be done for them – including marketing, basic P&amp;L skills and operations. But you have to maintain costs, labor and compliance with rules and regulations. You really have to be careful.”Want to learn more about how 1851 helps franchisees find the right franchise opportunity? Visit&nbsp;<a href="https://www.1851growthclub.com">www.1851growthclub.com</a> and start your journey.

What is the best franchise to buy for beginners?

What is the best franchise to buy for beginners? Franchise attorney Mario Herman shares expert tips on due diligence, top sectors and avoiding common mistakes.

Lightbridge Academy Launches New Center Management Software Systemwide To Create Deeper Connection Between Families, Teachers, Staff and Students

MORE STORIES LIKE THIS