Q. Do I need any previous experience in the publishing business?

A. Absolutely not! We provide all the training you need to operate your own Natural Awakenings business. The most important requirements you bring are a genuine desire and drive to own your own business. You must be motivated to succeed and willing to follow our proven system.

Q. How many people will I need on my staff?

A. The Natural Awakenings system was created to simplify the process of creating the magazine. Depending on your volume of sales, you may choose to hire 1 to 3 part-time independent suppliers, such as an editorial assistant, layout designer and/or distribution company. Your own skill base will determine what best fits your needs as you grow.

Q. What additional equipment do I need to purchase or lease?

A. All you need is a basic computer system, a printer/scanner/fax combo machine, a digital camera, plus some racks for magazine distribution. Your computer can be either a PC (with virus protection softeware) or a Mac, and you will need Microsoft Office Pro. 

If you are producing and laying out your own Natural Awakenings magazine files in preparation for the printer, you also must have a laser or inkjet printer (Hewlett Packard or comparable); a scanner; and Adobe Creative Suite software (bundled to include Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Illustrator and Adobe InDesign).

Q. How much retail space will I need?

A. None. The most attractive benefit of the Natural Awakening's franchise program is that you can operate a profitable business, directly from your home. There are no major building purchases or leases.

Q. Once I've signed the franchise agreement, how long will it take me to open my business?

A. It usually takes 90 to 120 days. During this period, you will attend a comprehensive three-day training session, establish your business format, obtain your business license, open your business checking account, and complete the other items on a “pre-opening checklist” provided.

Q. If my market is taken, can I move to another city where I don't know anyone and successfully start a Natural Awakenings magazine?

A. Yes. With our help and training you can establish a successful Natural Awakenings magazine in a community of your choice. Many of our owners have done this—some have even moved back to their home town.

Q. What is the next step to owning a Natural Awakenings franchise?

A. Call 1-877-530-1377 to discuss the potential of your market (or our recommended markets) as well as your qualifications, and for answers to your questions. Our goal will be to mutually determine if we should be in business together. This is not about us trying to sell you something. Thousands of people in your market depend on us making the right decision. It must be a good fit for both of us. If you feel good about the possibilities of making Natural Awakenings the source of your livelihood, please call 1-877-530-1377 for a free evaluation of your market’s potential.

This is not an offer to sell a Natural Awakenings franchise. A franchise can only be offered through the Natural Awakenings Franchise Disclosure Document. Natural Awakening Publishing Corporation is headquartered at 1250 Tamiami Trail N., Naples, Florida 34102. Your questions are always welcome. We can be reached by telephone at 1-877 530-1377 or by email at FranchiseInfo@NaturalAwakeningsMag.com.