Established
1995
Franchise Units
40
Minimum Investment
$150,000
Franchise Fee
$30,000
Total Investment Range
$350,000
Home Based
No
Description
Monkee’s is a well-established women’s boutique franchise that blends Southern hospitality, curated fashion, and a proven retail operating model. Built around the idea of creating warm, community-driven shopping experiences, Monkee’s boutiques are known for stylish apparel, accessories, gifts, and personalized service that keeps customers coming back season after season.
Positioned in the premium specialty retail segment, Monkee’s appeals to fashion-conscious women who value boutique exclusivity over mass-market sameness. Each location is thoughtfully merchandised with on-trend brands, seasonal collections, and locally relevant assortments, giving every store a distinct personality while maintaining strong brand consistency nationwide. This balance of creative freedom and operational structure has allowed Monkee’s to grow steadily across the United States, particularly in affluent suburban markets, lifestyle centers, and charming downtown districts.
For entrepreneurs seeking a retail franchise that combines creativity, customer connection, and a recognizable boutique brand, Monkee’s offers an attractive and scalable opportunity.
Why Invest in This Franchise?
Monkee’s provides a compelling investment option for entrepreneurs who want to own a lifestyle-focused retail business backed by a supportive franchisor.
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Proven women’s boutique model with strong repeat customer behavior
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Recognizable brand built on personalized service and curated fashion
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Creative control in merchandising within a structured franchise system
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Multiple revenue opportunities through apparel, accessories, and gifts
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Efficient store footprint with manageable staffing requirements
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Community-centered approach that encourages local loyalty and engagement
Background
Established Year: 1995
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Founders: Laura Cothran and Leigh Rawdon
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Industry Category: Specialty Retail / Women’s Fashion Boutique
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Franchise Active Units: 40+ locations across the United States
Brand Journey & Company History
Monkee’s began as a single women’s boutique rooted in warm service, stylish merchandise, and a welcoming in-store environment. The brand quickly gained a loyal following, leading the founders to expand through franchising while preserving the boutique feel that made the original store successful. Over time, Monkee’s refined its franchise systems, vendor relationships, and operational standards, allowing the brand to grow without losing its personalized shopping experience.
Market Presence & Ownership
Today, Monkee’s operates boutiques in multiple U.S. states, primarily in upscale suburban neighborhoods and lifestyle-driven retail destinations. The brand remains focused on supporting franchise owners through centralized leadership, brand oversight, and shared best practices, while empowering local owners to connect deeply with their communities.
Support Training
Monkee’s is known for hands-on, practical support designed to help both first-time and experienced retailers succeed.
Pre-Launch Support
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Site selection guidance and demographic analysis
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Boutique layout planning and design standards
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Initial inventory planning and vendor coordination
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Grand opening and pre-launch marketing support
Training & Education
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Comprehensive initial training covering daily operations, merchandising, and customer experience
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Product knowledge and styling guidance
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POS systems, inventory controls, and reporting procedures
Ongoing Operational Support
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Continued coaching and advisory support
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Seasonal merchandising direction and trend updates
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Access to approved vendors and buying programs
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Peer collaboration within the franchise network
Marketing & Brand Support
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Brand-approved marketing materials and campaigns
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Social media guidance and visual merchandising support
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Strategies for local events, trunk shows, and community partnerships
Ideal Candidate
Monkee’s is best suited for entrepreneurs who enjoy fashion, customer interaction, and being hands-on in their business.
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Passion for women’s fashion, styling, and retail trends
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Strong customer service mindset and people skills
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Willingness to manage staff, inventory, and daily store operations
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Community-oriented personality with interest in local networking
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Financial capability to meet investment and working capital requirements
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Preference for operating in suburban, lifestyle, or downtown retail markets
This franchise often attracts owner-operators, lifestyle entrepreneurs, and individuals transitioning into business ownership from corporate or retail backgrounds.
Financial Detail
| Cost Component | Estimated Amount (USD) |
|---|---|
| Initial Franchise Fee | $30,000 |
| Total Investment Required | $150,000 – $350,000 |
| Minimum Liquid Capital | $100,000+ |
| Store Build-Out & Infrastructure | $60,000 – $150,000 |
| Fixtures, Furniture & Equipment | $25,000 – $60,000 |
| Initial Inventory | $40,000 – $100,000 |
| Technology & POS Systems | $3,000 – $7,000 |
| Initial Marketing & Grand Opening | $5,000 – $10,000 |
| Professional Fees & Licenses | $2,000 – $5,000 |
| Working Capital (3–6 Months) | $20,000 – $40,000 |
| Ongoing Royalty Fee | Percentage of gross sales |
| Brand / Marketing Fund Contribution | Ongoing contribution (as per agreement) |