Established
2003
Franchise Units
12
Minimum Investment
$450,000
Franchise Fee
$40,000
Total Investment Range
$750,000
Home Based
No
Description
The Rod Works franchise opportunity offers a strong entry into the fast-growing home décor and lifestyle retail sector in the United States. Known for oversized wall art, rustic accents, farmhouse-style décor, and bold seasonal collections, Rod Works has built a recognizable brand that attracts loyal, repeat customers who value distinctive design and high-quality craftsmanship.
Rod Works stores are designed as destination retail spaces rather than simple storefronts. Customers are encouraged to browse, explore, and return frequently as new collections are introduced throughout the year. This experience-driven approach makes the brand especially attractive in suburban lifestyle centers, destination shopping hubs, and high-traffic retail corridors.
Background
Established Year
Rod Works was founded in 2003.
Founder
The brand was founded by Rod Barker, an entrepreneur with a passion for handcrafted décor and bold American-inspired design.
Brand Journey and Company History
Rod Works began as a single retail concept focused on oversized wall décor and rustic home accents. Early success was driven by the brand’s ability to offer distinctive products not commonly found in traditional big-box stores. Over time, Rod Works expanded its product categories, refined its supply chain, and standardized store operations.
As demand grew, the company introduced franchising to expand its footprint while maintaining consistent brand standards. Today, Rod Works operates across multiple U.S. markets with both franchise and company-owned locations.
Franchise Active Units: 12
Ownership Structure
Privately held, operating under a franchise model designed to support brand consistency and long-term franchisee success.
Industry Category
Home Décor Retail / Specialty Lifestyle Retail
Market Presence
United States, with a focus on suburban and lifestyle retail locations.
Support Training
Rod Works provides comprehensive support to guide franchise owners from initial planning through long-term operations.
Pre-Launch Support
• Site selection guidance and territory evaluation
• Store design standards and layout planning
• Initial inventory selection and ordering support
• Vendor coordination and logistics planning
• Pre-opening timelines and launch preparation
Initial Training
• Retail operations and store management training
• Visual merchandising and seasonal display education
• POS systems and reporting tools training
• Customer service and sales performance best practices
Operational Support
• Ongoing operational guidance and performance reviews
• Inventory replenishment systems and sales forecasting
• Merchandising calendars and display updates
• Access to system-wide best practices
Marketing & Brand Support
• Brand positioning and creative direction
• Seasonal marketing campaigns and promotional assets
• Social media content guidance
• Local marketing strategies for store openings and promotions
Ongoing Assistance
• Continuous education and product updates
• Field support and operational check-ins
• New product introductions and merchandising refreshes
• Franchisee communication and support systems
Ideal Candidate
The ideal Rod Works franchisee combines a passion for retail and design with strong business discipline.
Ideal Candidates
• Retail entrepreneurs or experienced operators
• Investors seeking a hands-on or semi-absentee model
• Professionals transitioning into business ownership
• Individuals with an interest in home décor and visual merchandising
Preferred Background
• Experience in retail, hospitality, or customer-focused businesses
• Strong leadership and staff management skills
• Ability to follow systems and brand standards
• Comfort managing inventory-based businesses
Investment Capability
• Ability to meet total investment and working capital requirements
• Financial stability to support seasonal inventory cycles
Location Preferences
• Suburban lifestyle centers
• High-visibility retail plazas
• Growing residential markets with strong household income demographics
Financial Detail
| Cost Category | Estimated Amount (USD) |
|---|---|
| Franchise Fee | $40,000 |
| Total Initial Investment | $450,000 – $750,000 |
| Minimum Liquid Capital | $200,000 – $300,000 |
| Leasehold Improvements & Build-Out | $200,000 – $350,000 |
| Furniture, Fixtures & Equipment | $75,000 – $125,000 |
| Initial Inventory | $100,000 – $200,000 |
| Technology & POS Systems | $10,000 – $20,000 |
| Initial Marketing & Grand Opening | $15,000 – $25,000 |
| Working Capital (3–6 months) | $50,000 – $75,000 |
| Ongoing Royalty Fee | Industry-standard percentage of gross sales |
| Advertising / Brand Fund Contribution | As required by franchisor |
| Estimated Break-Even Period | 24 – 36 months |
| Expected ROI | Varies by location and operational performance |
