1991
16
$50,000
$30,000
$120,000
No
Cartridge on Wheels is a leading mobile ink and toner cartridge supply franchise that specializes in providing businesses and individuals with fast, reliable, and cost-effective printer supplies right at their doorstep. With the increasing demand for office supplies, printing solutions, and reliable delivery services, Cartridge on Wheels has carved out a unique niche in the $30+ billion U.S. printing and office supply industry.
Unlike traditional office supply stores, Cartridge on Wheels operates on a mobile delivery and service model, reducing overhead costs while providing unmatched convenience to its customers. The franchise combines affordability, customer service, and recurring revenue streams, making it an attractive business model for entrepreneurs who want to step into a stable and growing industry.
Positioned as a trusted name in office supply solutions, Cartridge on Wheels has earned a reputation for quality products, excellent customer relationships, and strong franchise support systems, making it one of the most scalable franchise opportunities in the USA.
Recurring Revenue Model: Businesses and individuals constantly require ink and toner, creating repeat orders and steady income.
Low Overhead Costs: No need for a large storefront; mobile delivery reduces expenses.
Growing Industry Demand: Office supplies and home-based business printing solutions continue to expand.
Proven Business Model: Franchisees benefit from a time-tested system with strong brand recognition.
Strong ROI Potential: With low startup costs and recurring clients, franchisees can expect profitable returns.
Established Year: Cartridge on Wheels was founded in 1991 as a unique solution to meet the growing demand for ink and toner supplies for both businesses and individuals.
Founders & Ownership: The franchise was developed by Discount Imaging Franchise Corporation, a company specializing in office supply distribution and printer solutions. The vision behind the brand was to provide convenient, affordable, and reliable mobile delivery of printing supplies directly to customers, eliminating the hassle of visiting retail outlets.
Franchise Units: At its peak, Cartridge on Wheels operated around 16 franchise units across the United States, serving a mix of small businesses, large organizations, and residential customers.
Brand Journey & History:
The brand began as a small mobile service delivering ink and toner cartridges.
Due to its low-overhead model and strong customer demand, Cartridge on Wheels quickly evolved into a franchise opportunity.
The company’s innovative concept allowed franchisees to operate efficiently without the need for expensive storefronts, making it an attractive option for entrepreneurs.
Over the years, Cartridge on Wheels built a reputation for quality products, eco-friendly cartridge solutions, and customer-focused service.
Industry Category: Cartridge on Wheels belongs to the printing, office supplies, and B2B services industry, a sector valued at over $30 billion in the U.S. and driven by recurring demand for consumables like ink and toner.
Market Presence in the USA:
The franchise established its presence in urban and suburban areas where businesses and office clusters create consistent demand.
Cartridge on Wheels positioned itself as a convenient alternative to big-box retailers, providing a personal touch with reliable delivery.
While the franchise model is currently inactive in terms of new expansions, existing units have served loyal customers and maintained local brand recognition.
Other Key Information:
Cartridge on Wheels was known for its mobile business model, helping entrepreneurs reduce costs and scale quickly.
The brand catered not only to B2B clients (corporations, offices, schools, government institutions) but also individual home-office users.
Its franchise system was built to be accessible, requiring relatively low investment compared to traditional retail supply stores.
Cartridge on Wheels provides comprehensive training and continuous support to ensure franchisees succeed:
Pre-Launch Training: Extensive classroom and field training covering business operations, product knowledge, sales strategies, and customer service.
Operational Support: Assistance with business setup, inventory management, delivery systems, and daily operations.
Marketing Support: Access to national and local marketing campaigns, digital advertising tools, promotional material, and customer acquisition strategies.
Academic Training: Ongoing education in industry trends, printing technology, and business best practices.
Ongoing Support: Dedicated franchise consultants, 24/7 online resources, and periodic performance reviews.
Technology Assistance: Access to CRM tools, online ordering platforms, and customer management software.
This strong support system ensures franchisees never feel alone in their business journey.
Cartridge on Wheels is best suited for entrepreneurs and investors who are looking for a low-cost, high-demand business opportunity. The ideal franchisee should possess:
Business Background: Prior experience in sales, customer service, or management is helpful but not mandatory.
Passion for Service: Strong interest in serving small businesses, corporations, and home offices.
Investment Capability: Ability to meet financial requirements including franchise fee and working capital.
Location Preference: Urban and suburban areas with high business activity and office clusters.
Growth-Oriented Mindset: Willingness to expand operations and build strong customer relationships.
Independent yet Coachable: Desire to operate independently while following a proven franchise system.
| Financial Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Total Investment Required | $50,000 – $120,000 |
| Minimum Investment | $50,000 |
| Franchise Fee | $30,000 – $40,000 |
| Franchise Units (Approx.) | 16 |
| Infrastructure Cost | Low (no storefront needed, mobile-based operations) |
| Marketing Budget | $5,000 – $10,000 (initial and ongoing) |
| Working Capital | $10,000 – $20,000 |
| Royalty Fees | 6% – 8% of gross sales |
| Expected ROI | 18 – 24 months |
| Break-Even Time | 12 – 18 months |
| Potential Revenue Streams | B2B sales, individual customer sales, recurring contracts, delivery fees, add-on office supplies |
