Important Disclaimer: This analysis is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, or investment advice. Prospective franchisees should conduct their own due diligence, consult with qualified franchise attorneys and accountants, and independently verify all information before making any franchise investment decision. Franchise performance can vary significantly based on market conditions, operator skill, and numerous other factors.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the business model?
Construction/remodeling supervision (franchisees hire contractors, do not perform construction)
When was the FDD issued?
March 31, 2025
What was the average gross revenue in 2023?
$3,744,777 (104 outlets)
What type of territory is granted?
Nonexclusive (limited protection if MAPR met)
What is the total estimated initial investment?
The total investment necessary to begin operation of a Premier Pools & Spas or Pinnacle Pools & Spas franchise is between $58,950 and $119,000. This includes $45,000 paid to the franchisor or affiliate. The relatively low investment reflects the asset-light supervision model where franchisees hire contractors rather than performing construction themselves.
Does Premier Pools & Spas offer financing?
No. According to the FDD: "We do not offer direct or indirect financing. We do not guarantee your notes, leases or any other obligations." Prospective franchisees must secure their own funding, contrasting with ASP which offers up to 75% financing and 100% conversion financing with potential forgiveness.
What were the 2023 financial performance results?
For the 104 franchised outlets open for the full year 2023:
- Average Gross Revenues: $3,744,777
- Median Gross Revenues: $2,528,852
These figures represent gross sales only and do not account for expenses or profitability. The high average reflects the multi-million dollar nature of pool construction projects, substantially higher than service-focused models like Poolwerx ($1,244,222 average) or pure maintenance franchises.
How does the business model work?
According to the FDD: "System Businesses do not engage in the actual construction or remodeling of swimming pools and spas. Instead, our franchisees hire contractors, who must be properly licensed and adequately insured, to perform those services." Franchisees focus on marketing, sales, design, and project supervision, delegating the hands-on construction work to licensed contractors. This keeps capital requirements lower but requires strong contractor management and sales skills.
Is the territory exclusive?
No. The territory granted is nonexclusive. According to the FDD: "You may face competition from other franchisees, from outlets that we own, or from other channels of distribution or competitive brands that we control." The territory generally includes at least 1 to 4 counties, but limited protection only applies if you meet Minimum Annual Performance Requirements (MAPR). This differs significantly from exclusive territory models offered by ASP or California Pools.
What are the Minimum Annual Performance Requirements (MAPR)?
According to the FDD: "You must achieve the minimum annual Gross Revenues for each of your Pool Types during each successive 12 month period during the term of this Agreement." Pool Types include gunite, fiberglass, and/or vinyl. Failure to meet MAPR allows the franchisor to:
- Unilaterally reduce the size of your Territory
- Eliminate limited territorial rights
- Eliminate one or more assigned Pool Types
- Terminate the Franchise Agreement with 30 days' written notice
Can Premier Pool Service (PPSF) compete in my territory?
Yes. This is a critical competitive risk. The franchisor's affiliate, PPSF, LLC (Premier Pool Service), is explicitly unrestricted from operating pool cleaning/maintenance businesses in your territory. While you focus on high-ticket construction sales, a sister brand can actively compete for recurring service revenue within your nonexclusive area. This dual-brand strategy means your territory provides limited protection from corporate competition.
Does the franchisor contribute to the Marketing Fund?
This is an important disclosure. According to the FDD: "Company Owned Outlets Are Not Required to Contribute to the Marketing Fund." This means franchisee contributions could partially or completely benefit franchisor-owned operations without the franchisor making equivalent contributions from its own outlets.
What are the owner participation requirements?
An owner with ≥ 10% equity must devote full time to management and operation of the business. Spouses may be required to sign consent and guaranty documents. Franchisees and contractors used must have all required contractors' licenses. Franchisees must maintain sufficient working capital with total current assets greater than total current liabilities.
What is the litigation and regulatory history?
This is a critical risk factor. Item 3 of the FDD lists multiple ongoing customer complaints and lawsuits from 2023 and 2024, generally alleging:
- Breach of contract
- Negligence
- Fraud and misrepresentation
- Construction defects
- Violations of consumer protection acts
Importantly, these suits frequently name the franchisor (Premier Franchise Management LLC) alongside the local franchisee. Additionally, in 2021, PFM and its CEO paid a $10,000 fine to the NY Attorney General for selling a franchise while unregistered in the state.
What are the post-termination restrictions?
The non-compete clause is broad. According to the FDD: "During the term of this Agreement, you... and your Managers will not engage in, assist, acquire, advise, consult with, be employed by, own, or become associated in any way with, any business... that sells, constructs, remodels, or supervises the construction or remodeling of swimming pools and/or spas, other than the Franchised Business." Post-termination, this restriction continues for 2 years within 50 miles of your Territory or 50 miles of any other franchisee's territory.
What supplies and vendors are required?
Franchisees must purchase "all or nearly all" inventory and supplies from franchisor-designated suppliers. This may limit procurement flexibility and pricing negotiation power compared to independent operators. The franchisor may also earn rebates or incentives from approved vendors, though specific disclosure of these amounts is not provided in available excerpts.