Franchise Deep Dive: The Learning Experience Franchise Costs, Fees, Profit and Data

This franchise is designed to provide a comprehensive and innovative early childhood education experience while supporting franchisees.

By Victoria CampisiStaff Writer

Updated 10:10AM • 01/12/24

LAST UPDATED: December 2023

FRANCHISE WEBSITE: https://tle-franchising.com/

NUMBER OF LOCATIONS: 600 (open or under development)

REPORTED COST TO GET IN: $590K to $5.5 million

REPORTED ROI (Item 19): N/A

The Learning Experience (TLE) is a daycare and early childhood education franchise. It offers innovative and engaging programs for children from 6 weeks to 5 years old.

How Many The Learning Experience Locations Are There?

TLE was founded in 2002 by the Weissman family with a passion for early childhood education. With a distinct approach that focuses on learning and development through the eyes of a child, TLE has become one of the most trusted brands in the childcare space. The Weissman family, with over 40 years of experience in developing childcare brands, established TLE with a commitment to providing excellence in early education and childcare.

In 1987, Michael Weissman and his son Richard acquired Tutor Time, a childcare company with over 200 centers in 25 states and four countries. After their retirement in 1997 and 1999, respectively, the Weissmans re-entered the childcare industry in 2002, bringing back the TLE brand. In 2003, the brand began to franchise. Michael served as chairman and CEO until his retirement in 2014, when Richard assumed both roles.

Today, the franchise has over 600 centers open or under development.

What Is The Learning Experience’s Business Model?

TLE’s business model revolves around providing a comprehensive and innovative early childhood education experience. The key elements of their business model can be outlined as follows:

Proprietary L.E.A.P. Curriculum: The core of TLE’s business is its proprietary Learning Experience Academic Program (L.E.A.P.) curriculum. This curriculum is designed to encourage children to learn through exploration and hands-on activities. It focuses on intellectual, social and cognitive development, allowing children to succeed independently.
STEM-Based Learning: The business model emphasizes an innovative approach to early education by incorporating science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) concepts. This ensures that children are exposed to real-world, hands-on learning opportunities that promote problem-solving and collaboration.
Ages and Stages of Early Childhood Development: The curriculum is structured to engage children in hands-on learning activities that are tailored to their specific stage of development. This approach provides a foundation for children to learn, play and grow under the care of nurturing teachers and staff.
Diverse Age Groups: TLE caters to a range of age groups, from infants (6 weeks to 1 year old) to kindergarteners (5 years old). This allows them to provide age-appropriate learning experiences for children at different developmental stages.
Character-Based Learning: The incorporation of a cast of characters adds an engaging aspect to the education journey. Studies have shown that children enjoy learning from characters, and TLE has created a full cast of characters to serve as educators, partners and friends throughout the preschool education journey. Each character has a distinct personality and area of interest.
Tuition Structure: The business model includes a tuition structure for different age groups, offering parents the flexibility to choose programs that best suit their child's needs.

TLE provides comprehensive support to its franchisees at every stage of their journey in the early education and daycare field. The key components of the support offered include:

Construction Leadership: TLE takes charge of the construction process, keeping franchisees updated and providing them with the keys to a state-of-the-art childcare center.
Marketing Guidance: Franchisees receive assistance in developing and executing effective marketing plans and sales processes. Ongoing marketing support, training and resources are also provided.
Staffing Assistance: The support team works with franchisees to build dynamic teams of qualified individuals, ensuring the staffing needs of the center are met.
Product Value Education: Franchisees are educated about the value of TLE's product, including information on over 90 proprietary brand characters.
Training Programs: TLE conducts various training programs to support personal development and growth in leadership, business acumen, and preparedness for running a successful business.
Financial Planning Support: Franchisees receive training and support related to financial planning and managing a profit and loss statement.
Licensing Assistance: Assistance is provided throughout the process of obtaining the necessary licenses for the center.
Ongoing Operations Support: Franchisees have continuous access to a highly trained operations team to help them navigate and operate their centers successfully.
Technology Access: Franchisees are equipped with the latest technology to effectively run childcare operations.

How Much Can The Learning Experience Franchise Owners Make?

Earnings for TLE franchise owners are not publicly available.

How Much Does It Cost To Open The Learning Experience?

The costs to open a TLE franchise range from $590,000 to $5.5 million, according to Entrepreneur.

What Is the Franchise Fee for The Learning Experience?

The franchise fee is $60,000.

Who Is the Leadership of The Learning Experience?

Richard Weissman — Chairman of the Board/CEO
Brian Alexander — Executive Vice President, Chief Legal Officer and Secretary
Brad Wahl — Chief Brand Officer
Traci Wilk — Chief People Officer
Ronald T. Linares — Chief Financial Officer

What Helpful Articles Can I Read to Learn More About The Learning Experience?

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