Franchise Evaluator™: Best in Class Education Center

What population does the brand serve? Is the market broad, niche, or somewhere in-between?

With global infrastructure and technology progressing rapidly, widespread internet usage has opened avenues for remote learning. This surge in connectivity has significantly boosted the education sector, positioning education franchises as dynamic players in meeting the diverse needs of learners across age groups. As the industry continues to evolve, strategic positioning within this dynamic environment will be crucial for success in the thriving education franchise sector. The global education market is set to reach at least $10 trillion by 2030.

We categorize the market size as a large market.

Is the overall industry growing, that is creating new customers who have never used these services before, or mature where most population segments are already using these types of products and services?

Several key trends are shaping the landscape of education franchises. Embracing technology is at the forefront, with a focus on personalized learning approaches that cater to individual needs. Best in Class Education Center stands behind its core value of adaptability. They are committed to meeting the changing needs of their franchisees and are ready to grow and change with them.

We categorize the Industry Trend as a high growth trend.

What drives the purchase of the product or service? Is it a “need-to-buy” or a “want-to-buy”? How are customers drawn to your business?

Best in Class Education Center Franchise prides itself on its commitment to delivering exceptional products and services, setting it apart as a leader in the education franchise sector. One key driver of success lies in its proprietary curriculum and software. The franchise places a strong emphasis on the quality of its supplemental curriculum, ensuring a solid foundation for effective educational development. This dedication to excellence is reflected in the practices and methods that operators are equipped with, emphasizing a comprehensive and tailored approach to meet the diverse needs of learners. Another crucial driver is Best in Class Education Center’s comprehensive training program. Designed not only to prepare operators as successful business owners but also as community-focused educators, the training goes beyond the business aspect. It instills the skills and knowledge needed to serve local families effectively and build a strong, reputable brand within the community.

We categorize the product and service drivers as high drivers.

Are competitors a major factor in operating your business? If so, is competition sparse or saturated? Will it matter to your business?

Best In Class Education Center Franchise offers a range of classes catering to students from preschool through 12th grade. The target market encompasses families with middle to upper income, specifically those with children who can benefit from supplemental education or require assistance in preparing for standardized exams. The demand for additional educational programs exhibits seasonality, with peak demand observed during the school year and a decline in demand during the summer months. In the competitive and well-developed market for supplemental educational services, individuals considering involvement with Best In Class will encounter various national and local providers. Key competitors in this landscape include established names such as Sylvan Learning Center, Kumon, Mathnasium, Eye Level, JEI Learning, and Huntington Learning Centers. Notably, some of these competitors operate under a franchise model. In addition to national providers, local teachers offering after-hours tutoring services present an additional layer of competition. This impartial overview underscores the competitive nature of the supplemental education sector, providing individuals with an objective understanding of the market dynamics and key players in the field.

We categorize the competitive climate as low-mid competitive pressure.

Are the business’s products or services regulated, or do they require licensing? Will you or your employees require special licensing? If so, is the regulatory climate strict or lax? Will this affect recruiting employees?

Individuals considering the operation of this business must adhere to all federal and state licensing as well as other regulatory requirements relevant to the business. Beyond general business laws, there might be specific regulations governing enterprises providing education or related services to children. Depending on the jurisdiction, teachers may be obligated to obtain licenses and/or undergo background checks. As of now, there is no awareness of any states mandating state licensure or certification for teachers associated with this business. However, it is crucial to recognize that there may be additional local, state, and/or federal laws or regulations applicable to the business that necessitate compliance. Prospective candidates are strongly encouraged to thoroughly investigate these laws before making a decision to purchase this franchise.

We categorize the regulatory climate as low regulation.

How experienced is the franchisor at being a franchisor?

Hao Lam has been serving as the Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of Best In Class Education Center, LLC since February 2023, showcasing strong leadership in guiding the organization. Over the past five years, he has played pivotal roles in the company’s success, previously holding the position of Manager and Chairman from February 2011 to June 2012. Lam has also demonstrated his expertise in the education sector through his role as Executive Chairman at Adaptively Education, Inc. since February 2021. Additionally, he has been contributing to the field through his involvement with EDYU USA Holding Ltd. as a Manager since February 2010. Lam’s commitment to education extends further back, as evidenced by his managerial role at Lam’s Tutoring Services, Inc. in Bellevue, WA, where he has been active since January 1995. With a wealth of experience in various leadership positions within the education industry, Lam brings a valuable perspective to his role as the Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of Best In Class Education Center.

We categorize the Franchising Experience as Extensive.

What is the tenure, background, and commitment of the franchise’s leadership?

The leadership team at Best in Class Education Center Franchise includes Stephanie Zhu, who has been serving as the Vice President of Finance since February 2023. Zhu brings a wealth of experience, having held key positions over the past five years. Her financial expertise is evident through her role as Vice President of Finance at Best In Class Education Center, LLC, where she has been instrumental since June 2013. Additionally, Zhu has contributed to the financial leadership of Adaptively Education, Inc. as Co-Founder & CFO since February 2021, and Lam’s Tutoring Services, Inc. as Vice President of Finance since July 2007. Laura Leddusire, the Vice President of Operations since February 2023, has demonstrated her operational prowess through various roles over the past five years. Currently, she oversees operations at Best In Class Education Center, LLC, a position she has held since August 2019. Leddusire has also played a key role as Co-Founder & CEO of Adaptively Education, Inc. since February 2021 and as Vice President of Operations at Lam’s Tutoring Services, Inc. from February 2009 to August 2019. The diverse and experienced leadership of Zhu and Leddusire, underscores the strength and capability of Best in Class Education Centers’ leadership team.

We categorize the Franchising Leaders as Highly Experienced.

How often and how well does the franchisor engage franchisees? What assistance is provided in starting and operating your business.

Best in Class Education Center seeks franchisees who share a deep passion for education and teaching and a genuine desire to contribute to their community. The brand believes that individuals with a commitment to education and community involvement are a natural fit for the Best in Class family. The ideal franchisee embodies the core values of the brand, showcasing leadership skills, a business-oriented mindset, and a genuine aspiration for a meaningful income supplement. While management or business experience is valued, candidates with education or childcare experience are preferred. A Bachelor’s degree is also a requirement, reflecting the brand’s commitment to educational excellence. Best in Class Education Center is particularly interested in individuals who demonstrate motivation, an entrepreneurial spirit, and a strong passion for education. As a franchisor, Best in Class Education Center provides comprehensive support throughout the entire process. From site selection and lease negotiation to training, grand opening assistance, and ongoing support, the brand ensures that each franchise operates efficiently and creates an ideal learning environment.

We categorize the Franchisee Engagement as Highly Engaged.

In what kind of financial shape is the franchisor?

According to Best in Class 2023 Franchise Disclosure Document, they do not make any representations about a franchisee’s future financial performance or the past financial performance of company-owned or franchised outlets. Any prospective franchisees should independently verify all information provided. Best in Class also does not provide information about corporate financial performance. Please verify fees, investment amounts, and offers directly with the business opportunity before making any investment decisions, as this information may have changed since initially published.

We categorize the Financial Health as Sound.