Frequently Asked Questions
Clear answers about eligibility, fees, territories, timelines, standards, training, support, and compliance for Foot Locker franchise & partner-store opportunities.
Last updated: September 19, 2025
Models
Do you offer both franchise and partner-store models?
Yes—availability is market-dependent. Screening confirms whether a Franchise or Partner-Store route fits your country, plan, and capacity.
What’s the difference between a Franchise and a Partner Store?
Franchise: You operate under our brand standards with fee/royalty structures and defined obligations. Partner Store: A brand-aligned retail format typically used in specific markets or via distributors; obligations and economics differ by region.
Eligibility
What are the minimum eligibility requirements?
Multi-unit retail capability, experienced management, compliant supply chain, and sufficient working capital for fit-out, inventory, payroll, and marketing.
Do I need prior footwear/apparel experience specifically?
Relevant multi-unit retail experience is strongly preferred. Where needed, we may require a seasoned operating partner with category experience.
Can a consortium or investor group apply with an operating partner?
Yes. Identify ownership, governance, and the day-to-day operating team during screening. We assess both capital and operational depth.
Fees & Investment
Do you publish fee schedules on the website?
Official fee schedules and disclosures are provided after screening and NDA, as figures vary by market, format, and store size.
What costs should I plan for besides fees and royalties?
Typical items include store fit-out/fixtures, initial inventory buy, POS/ERP onboarding, team training, opening marketing, and working capital for ramp-up.
Is there a marketing fund or local marketing requirement?
Yes—partners typically contribute to brand/marketing programs and fund local activation aligned with our calendars and guidelines.
Timeline
How long does the process take from application to opening?
Typical ranges are 4–6 months, depending on site availability, approvals, build-out, hiring/training, and merchandising setup.
When should I sign a lease or issue large POs for fixtures/inventory?
Only after written site approval, design confirmation, and authorization. Do not commit funds before approval.
Territories
How do I check territory availability for my city/country?
Submit your application with the target location. We confirm capacity and the appropriate model during evaluation.
Are territories exclusive or performance-based over time?
Territory structures vary. Some markets use performance-based development milestones; details are shared during evaluation.
Design & Standards
What store sizes and formats are available?
Formats include high-street and mall inline stores sized to local demand. Fixtures, signage, and visual standards follow the design guide.
Can I customize layouts or visual merchandising for my market?
Localized elements may be considered within brand guidelines and with written approval. Core layout and VM standards are mandatory.
Training & Support
What training and ongoing support do you provide partners?
Pre-opening training, merchandising calendars, POS/ERP onboarding, audit readiness, and ongoing operations support aligned to KPIs.
Do you assist with hiring and staff training before launch?
Yes—partners handle hiring locally; we provide training content, standards, and opening readiness support.
Operations
How are release calendars and allocations handled?
Allocations and launch calendars are managed centrally with local execution requirements. Compliance with release protocols is mandatory.
What KPIs do partners monitor after opening?
Common metrics include conversion, AOV, sell-through, inventory turns, shrink, and labor efficiency—reviewed via periodic business reviews.
What POS/ERP systems are required and who pays for them?
Approved POS/ERP solutions are specified during evaluation; partners are responsible for licensing, onboarding, and compliance with data policies.
Legal & Compliance
Will I sign an NDA before receiving detailed documents and fee schedules?
Yes. We share confidential materials (fees, standards, designs) after screening and NDA execution.
Are there insurance, HSE, or accessibility requirements for stores and staff?
Yes—partners must comply with local laws and our standards for insurance, health & safety, loss prevention, and accessibility.
Can I transfer or sell my store or development rights later on?
Transfers require prior written consent and must meet program criteria. Terms are detailed in the agreement and addenda.
Other
Where can I see examples of successful openings?
Visit our Success Stories page for selected case studies.
How do I contact the program office for specific questions?
Email: applications@footlockerfranchise.com • Phone: +1 (___) ___-____ • Or use the form on the Contact page.