The convenience retail sector in the UK has seen steady growth over the years, driven by busy lifestyles, demand for quick access to everyday essentials, and the rise of localised shopping. One Stop is a well-known convenience store brand operating across the country, offering groceries, snacks, drinks, and household items. For entrepreneurs seeking to enter the retail industry, understanding the financial requirements to open a One Stop franchise is crucial before making an investment decision. The brand’s established presence and support systems make it an appealing choice for prospective franchisees.
Overview of the One Stop Franchise Concept
One Stop operates as a convenience store franchise, focusing on providing a broad range of products including groceries, fresh produce, snacks, beverages, and household essentials. Many stores also offer ready-to-eat meals, coffee, and essential services, catering to the fast-paced needs of local communities. The brand is known for its approachable store layout, recognised branding, and consistent product offerings.
Franchise locations are generally positioned in high-traffic residential areas, town centres, and near transport hubs to maximise accessibility and customer footfall. The One Stop franchise model provides operational support, marketing guidance, and access to established supply chains to ensure consistency across stores. Franchisees benefit from training programmes, operational manuals, and marketing initiatives designed to attract and retain local customers.
One Stop Franchise Investment Cost in the UK
The initial franchise investment is £50,000. This figure represents the capital required to start a One Stop franchise in the UK. Compared to other retail or food franchise opportunities, this investment is relatively modest, making it accessible to a wide range of entrepreneurs.
The investment covers the necessary costs to set up the store, including leasehold arrangements, initial stock purchases, and initial operational expenses. While £50,000 serves as the minimum requirement, prospective franchisees should ensure they have sufficient funds for working capital to cover the early months of operations.
What the Franchise Investment Typically Covers
A significant portion of the £50,000 investment goes toward setting up the store, including lease agreements, shop fitting, shelving, refrigeration units, and point-of-sale technology. The aim is to create a fully operational convenience store that meets the One Stop branding and operational standards.
Initial stock purchases form another essential part of the investment. Franchisees must ensure the store is well-stocked with popular grocery items, beverages, snacks, and household products to meet the immediate demands of customers. Operational systems and training are also included in the franchise fee, providing guidance on inventory management, customer service, and compliance with UK retail regulations.
The One Stop franchise provides access to national and local marketing campaigns, helping new stores attract customers quickly. Training programmes typically cover product management, store operations, customer service, and compliance with health and safety and retail standards.
Additional start-up expenses may include insurance, licences, professional fees, and initial promotional activities. Working capital is crucial to cover wages, utilities, and ongoing stock replenishment in the early months of trading.
Factors That Influence Total Costs
While the minimum franchise investment is £50,000, certain factors may influence the actual costs for a particular location. Store size, location, and lease conditions can affect fit-out costs and initial operating expenses. Larger stores or those requiring significant refurbishment may require additional funds beyond the initial £50,000.
Local competition, community demand, and store format can also influence initial stock levels and marketing spend. Franchisees should carefully assess these factors to ensure they allocate sufficient capital for smooth operations.
Ongoing Financial Considerations
Beyond the initial investment, franchisees must manage ongoing operational costs such as staff wages, utilities, rent, stock replenishment, and marketing contributions. Efficient operations, good stock management, and excellent customer service are key to building a loyal customer base and maintaining profitability.
Franchisees benefit from the support of a well-established brand, but continued success requires careful financial planning and active management of store operations.
Conclusion
Opening a One Stop franchise in the UK offers entrepreneurs the opportunity to invest in a recognised convenience store brand with proven systems and support. The initial franchise investment is £50,000, covering store set-up, initial stock, and operational guidance. While the financial commitment is relatively modest compared to other franchise opportunities, franchisees benefit from brand recognition, structured training, and operational support. For investors looking to enter the convenience retail sector, One Stop presents a manageable and well-supported pathway to establishing a profitable local business.