Frequently asked questionsThe answers will help you make an informed decision about becoming part of the Thrifty family.
Q - How much does a Thrifty Franchise cost?
A - The initial franchise fee varies by territory and is based on reported airport revenue volumes and population. A Franchise Owner is granted the right to use the Thrifty name and trademark in a designated territory for an initial ten year period.
Q - What territories are available?
A - To find out which territories are available click here, or you may contact one of our Franchise Development staff members by e-mail or by calling 1-800-532-3401. Territory is licensed based upon the market area that we determine your projected operation could service. Typically, we franchise by city, county, and by zip code in high population areas.
Q - What do I have to pay?
A - Administrative fee: Three percent (3%) of a Franchise Owner's monthly gross revenue from rental and parking activities. This fee is allocated to help pay for Headquarters support necessary to maintain the programs made available to Franchise Owners.
Advertising Fee: The advertising fee is five percent (5%) of an owner's gross receipts from car rental. If your location qualifies as a local location, the fee is reduced to two and half percent (2 1/2 %). These funds are collected by us and kept in a "national advertising fund" and spent to promote the Thrifty brand.
Reservation Fee: The reservation fee is a range of $5.00 to $7.10 for each net, non-duplicate reservation transmitted. This charge covers costs associated with handling and transmitting reservations to the Franchise Owner. For reservations made through the airline automated systems, there are additional charges which vary by booking source.
Airline/Hotel Transaction Fees: Charges for frequent flyer or frequent stay programs currently range from $5.00 to $8.50 per transaction.
Q - Do I have to make changes to my existing location?
A - All locations must be brought into image compliance prior to opening. The Image and Compliance staff is responsible for facilities and graphic standards, and assists with design and planning services, including architectural drawings and signage specifications, to make conversion as smooth as possible.
Q - How many cars must I have, and can you supply them?
A - Your Franchise Development staff member will assist you in determining the number of cars needed initially to serve your licensed territory. Thrifty provides a very competitive lease program for its U.S. and Canadian owners. The use of our lease program is optional and we allow you to purchase vehicles directly or take advantage of our volume purchasing discounts.
Q - How long is the contract?
A - License agreements are granted for a period of 10 years, with the option to renew every five years.
Q - If I become a Thrifty Franchise Owner, what support will I receive for my investment?
A - Thrifty provides our Franchise Owners with the resources necessary to be reach your goals. With that philosophy in mind, Thrifty has optional programs available for fleet, insurance, counter automation software and continual training for all levels of employees, as well as a number of other important optional and back office services. For a complete list of all the services Thrifty offers, see our Franchise Development Franchise Owner section and the Franchise Development Marketing Services section. Most services are provided AT NO ADDITIONAL COST to the Thrifty Franchise Owner!
Q - Are there advantages to owning a Thrifty franchise in a non-airport city?
A - Definitely! Many of our locations are in suburban markets. Independent competitors have found it difficult to compete in this ever-changing business. Having access to competitive fleet and insurance programs, discounted supplies, on-going training and support and worldwide marketing and advertising programs can give you a competitive edge.
