Established
1986
Franchise Units
30
Minimum Investment
$275,000
Franchise Fee
$30,000
Total Investment Range
$550,000
Home Based
No
Description
Music Go Round is a well-established musical instrument resale franchise that combines the passion of music culture with the strength of a proven retail business model. Built around buying, selling, and trading quality used musical instruments and gear, the brand caters to musicians of all levels while capitalizing on the fast-growing resale economy in the United States.
Each Music Go Round store offers a wide selection of guitars, basses, amplifiers, drums, keyboards, pro audio equipment, and accessories. The concept is designed to give customers access to reliable gear at affordable prices while giving sellers immediate value for unused or gently used instruments. This constant two-way flow of inventory creates strong margins and consistent in-store traffic.
Unlike traditional music retailers that rely heavily on new-product launches and seasonal demand, Music Go Round thrives on local supply and repeat customer behavior. Stores function as neighborhood music hubs, staffed by knowledgeable team members who understand musicians and their needs. This community-driven positioning has helped the brand remain relevant and profitable across changing economic cycles.
For entrepreneurs looking to invest in a retail franchise with cultural relevance, sustainability appeal, and long-term demand, Music Go Round presents a compelling opportunity in the U.S. market.
Why Invest in This Franchise?
Music Go Round offers several advantages that make it attractive to franchise investors seeking stability and differentiation.
Recession-Resilient Business Model
Resale businesses often perform well during economic uncertainty. Customers look to buy quality used gear at better value, while sellers seek quick cash or store credit, keeping transactions balanced and consistent.
Healthy Gross Margins
Because inventory is acquired locally through resale rather than wholesale purchasing, franchisees typically enjoy stronger margins compared to traditional music retailers.
Sustainability and Circular Economy Appeal
The model naturally supports reuse and recycling, aligning with modern consumer values around sustainability and responsible consumption.
Loyal, Repeat Customer Base
Musicians frequently trade, upgrade, and browse gear, resulting in repeat visits and strong word-of-mouth referrals within local music communities.
Proven Franchise System
With decades of operational history, Music Go Round provides franchisees with established systems, training, and support that reduce startup risk.
Background
Established Year
Music Go Round was founded in 1986.
Founders and Brand Journey
The brand was developed as a dedicated resale concept for musicians, focusing on professional retail standards rather than pawn-style transactions. Over time, it refined its processes for pricing, inventory management, and customer experience.
Ownership
Music Go Round operates under an experienced franchise organization known for developing successful resale-based retail brands.
Franchise Active Units
The system currently operates 30+ franchised locations across the United States, with room for expansion in many regional markets.
Market Presence in the USA
Stores are commonly located in suburban retail centers, college towns, and metro areas with active music scenes and school music programs.
Industry Category
Specialty Retail Franchise
Musical Instruments & Gear Resale
Sustainable / Recommerce Retail
Support Training
Music Go Round provides structured, ongoing support to help franchisees launch and operate efficiently.
Pre-Launch Support
Assistance includes site selection guidance, lease evaluation, store layout planning, and initial inventory strategy. Franchisees receive standardized design and merchandising guidelines.
Initial Training
Comprehensive training covers:
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Instrument and gear evaluation
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Buy, sell, and trade pricing systems
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Inventory management and turnover
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Point-of-sale operations
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Customer service and community engagement
Training combines classroom instruction with hands-on, real-world experience.
Operational Support
Ongoing support focuses on staffing, merchandising, shrink control, inventory optimization, and performance benchmarking.
Marketing & Brand Support
Franchisees receive access to national brand marketing tools, digital campaigns, social media guidance, and local marketing strategies to drive store traffic.
Ongoing Education
Continuous learning, system updates, franchisee networking, and field support help owners stay aligned with best practices and industry trends.
Ideal Candidate
Music Go Round is well-suited for owner-operators and hands-on investors who enjoy retail and community interaction.
Business Background
Experience in retail, customer service, hospitality, or sales is beneficial, though not mandatory.
Passion for Music and Community
An appreciation for music culture and local engagement helps franchisees connect with customers and build loyalty.
Entrepreneurial Approach
Owners who are comfortable managing staff, inventory, and day-to-day operations tend to perform best.
Investment Capability
Franchisees should be financially prepared to cover startup costs, inventory investment, and working capital needs.
Location Preference
Ideal markets include suburban shopping areas, college towns, and metro regions with strong music and arts communities.
Financial Detail
| Financial Component | Estimated Range (USD) |
|---|---|
| Initial Franchise Fee | $30,000 |
| Total Investment Required | $275,000 – $550,000 |
| Minimum Liquid Capital (Recommended) | $125,000 – $150,000 |
| Leasehold Improvements & Build-Out | $80,000 – $150,000 |
| Furniture, Fixtures & Equipment | $25,000 – $50,000 |
| Initial Inventory (Used Instruments & Gear) | $90,000 – $180,000 |
| POS, Technology & Software Systems | $10,000 – $20,000 |
| Initial Marketing & Grand Opening | $7,500 – $15,000 |
| Training & Opening Support | Included |
| Working Capital (3–6 Months) | $30,000 – $60,000 |
| Ongoing Royalty Fee | ~5% of Gross Sales |
| National Brand Marketing Fund | ~1% of Gross Sales |
| Estimated Break-Even Period | 18 – 30 Months |
| Key Revenue Streams | Instrument sales, trade-ins, accessories |