Franchise Evaluator™: WOW Windowboxes

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

The home services industry, including landscaping and outdoor design, is valued at approximately $657 billion annually, with the home landscaping sector alone accounting for $149 billion. WOW Windowboxes operates within this growing industry, targeting homeowners and businesses looking for convenient, high-quality exterior enhancements.

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?

Trends in the home services industry indicate a growing demand for low-maintenance, aesthetically appealing landscaping solutions. Urban homeowners and businesses are increasingly investing in curb appeal improvements, with a preference for professionally designed and installed solutions. Sustainable gardening practices, including drip irrigation and low-water plantings, are becoming more popular.

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?

Key factors driving demand for WOW Windowboxes’ services include aesthetic improvement, convenience, and sustainability. The automated irrigation system reduces plant maintenance requirements, making it attractive to busy homeowners and commercial clients. The franchise’s ability to provide year-round plantings ensures consistent revenue and customer engagement.

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?

WOW Windowboxes operates in a niche market with little direct competition. While traditional landscaping companies, nurseries, and home improvement stores offer some overlapping services, few businesses specialize in custom window box installations with automated irrigation. This first-mover advantage allows franchisees to establish themselves as market leaders.

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?

There are no significant industry-specific regulations affecting WOW Windowboxes. However, franchisees must comply with local business licensing requirements, environmental laws related to pesticide use and water runoff, and employment regulations. Franchisees are also required to adhere to advertising guidelines set by the Federal Trade Commission.

We categorize the regulatory climate as low regulation.

How experienced is the franchisor at being a franchisor?

WOW Windowboxes began franchising in 2024, making it a relatively new franchise system. The corporate team has experience in branding, marketing, and operations, but franchise expansion is still in its early stages, with no currently awarded franchise units.

We categorize the Franchising Experience as Extensive.

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

The franchise is led by founder Bret Schneider, who has been involved in the business since its inception. Other key team members include a Branding/Marketing Manager and an Operations Manager, both of whom bring experience in their respective fields. Leadership support includes training, operational guidance, and marketing assistance.

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.

Franchisees are supported through a structured training program, including a five-day in-person course covering sales, operations, and financial management. Ongoing support includes field visits, peer group meetings, and digital training materials. An annual conference provides further opportunities for engagement and skill development.

We categorize the Franchisee Engagement as Highly Engaged.

In what kind of financial shape is the franchisor?

The initial investment required to open a WOW Windowboxes franchise falls within a broad range, with costs varying depending on location, equipment, and operational needs. The corporate-owned locations have demonstrated strong revenue performance, though data on franchisee earnings is not yet available due to the brand’s early stage of franchising. As with any franchise opportunity, potential investors should conduct thorough due diligence and review financial disclosures before making an investment decision.

We categorize the Financial Health as Sound.