Lids
The #1 Hat Retailer and Fan Shop
Franchise Overview
Overview
Lids is the premier destination for hats, caps, and officially licensed fan gear in North America. With over 20 years of marketplace experience, Lids has established itself as a leader in sports-related headwear and apparel, catering to fans from all major leagues, colleges, and select international teams.
Key Features
Franchisees benefit from an extensive product line and access to exclusive merchandise, including:
- • Officially licensed team hats and apparel
• Custom embroidery station for personalized products
• Collectible and limited-edition releases
• Partnerships with major brands such as New Era, Nike, and Adidas
User Experience
Lids stores offer a vibrant, engaging shopping environment featuring knowledgeable staff and interactive customization options. Customers can browse a wide assortment of team and lifestyle hats or design their own using in-house embroidery services. Loyalty reward programs encourage repeat business and long-term relationships.
Market Opportunity
The demand for licensed sports merchandise continues to grow as fan communities expand and new leagues emerge around the world. Lids franchises excel in high-traffic locations like shopping malls and tourist corridors, attracting steady customer flow from both devoted fans and casual shoppers. With a proven business model, turnkey inventory management, and full corporate support, Lids stands out as a lucrative retail opportunity.
Franchise Requirements
Initial Franchise Fee | $25,000 |
Total Investment | $189,000 - $354,000 |
Royalty Fee | 6% of gross sales |
Marketing Fee | 2% of gross sales |
Contract Term | 5 years, renewable |
Net Worth Requirement | $500,000 minimum |
Liquid Capital Required | $150,000 minimum |
Experience | Retail or management background preferred; passion for sports merchandising is a plus. |
Established
1995
Total Units
1100+ locations
Headquarters
Indianapolis, IN, USA
Staffing
6-12 employees per store
Ready to Join the Lids Family?
Schedule a consultation with our franchise development team to learn more about this opportunity.