Daniel Rodriguez opened a Pinch A Penny location in New Braunfels, TX in April of 2024. While originally from San Antonio, he now resides in New Braunfels. After working in a corporate environment for many years, he decided it was time for a change. He left insurance and invested in his franchise and hasn’t looked back since. Working as a franchisee gives him more time for traveling and allows him to explore his passion for fitness. He is an empty nester and has four children.
He currently oversees 8 employees at his Pinch A Penny franchise.
When researching franchises, what criteria mattered to you most? How did your franchise meet that criteria?
What mattered most was the possibilities. Pinch A Penny seemed limitless.
Financing can be an obstacle and/or intimidating factor for aspiring entrepreneurs. How did you find financing options to purchase your franchise?
I took advantage of the loan options through Pinch A Penny. Their loan program was really convenient.
Which of your prior skills and experiences do you use in operating your business today?
It seems that a collection of my skills are used daily. From management of people to customer service, I have to wear a lot of hats. I also use my skills in project management.
When doing your research, which questions did you ask the franchisees?
I asked them things like, “If they were to do it all over again, would they?” I also wanted to know what their biggest challenges were. Additionally, I wanted to hear about the kind of support they get from corporate.
Which questions did you ask the franchisor?
I asked them about the support they offered their owners. I made sure to also ask about marketing and what was included in my fees. Franchise fees are also something a candidate should be asking about. I also asked about the success of other owners so I could get an idea of what it takes to succeed.
What were your first 90 days like as a franchisee?
The first 90 days were very overwhelming. I had to check my ego at the door. There was a lot to learn, but luckily, I had plenty of support from Pinch A Penny to get me through it.
At what point did you feel like you “got the hang of it” and settled in as a business owner?
I would say after 6 months, I felt like I had a handle on what was going on.
How does the franchisor support and encourage your success?
If you have questions, there is always someone willing to answer them. You just have to reach out. Pinch A Penny is easily accessible to its franchisees.
What are you most proud of and why?
I am most proud of the goals I set and reaching them each year through hard work and dedication.
What advice would you give to potential franchise owners?
I would say, “What you put into this business is what you will get out of it.”
More About the Pinch A Penny Franchise Opportunity:
Pinch A Penny is a thriving retail franchise. In addition to thriving among its customers, its franchisees are also very happy. Every year, Pinch A Penny surveys their franchisees to see how they’re doing. And the data is good! With this data, we’ve placed this brand on our best of lists for the year:
- Top 200 Franchises
- Top Franchises for Culture
- Recession-Resistant Franchises
- Most Profitable Franchises
- Top Franchises for Veterans
