What is included in the local recruitment spend for a Brightstar Care franchise?

According to Brightstar Care's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, the local recruitment spend includes expenses for job boards and retention software. Beginning on the Agency's Opening Date, franchisees must spend on recruitment marketing, including job boards. The amount spent is the greater of two options. The first option is 1.5% of the Agency's monthly Net Billings up to $200,000 (for a 4-week month or $250,000 for a 5-week month) and 0.5% of the Agency's monthly Net Billings over $200,000 (for a 4-week month or $250,000 for a 5-week month), plus an estimated $378 per month for retention software. The second option is a flat $1,000 per month, plus the estimated $378 per month for retention software. The amount for retention software, which is currently paid to a third party, may be increased from time to time depending on what the third party chooses to charge.

This recruitment spend is in addition to the General Marketing Fee paid to Brightstar Care. All local advertising must meet Brightstar Care's then-current requirements. The estimated initial investment for recruitment spend is between $3,495 and $6,385, which is paid to various vendors as arranged, per the terms of the invoice.

For a prospective Brightstar Care franchisee, this means that a significant portion of their initial and ongoing expenses will be dedicated to attracting and retaining qualified caregivers. The specific amount will depend on their agency's revenue and the chosen spending model. It is important to factor in these costs when projecting profitability and managing cash flow. The franchisee should also stay informed about any potential increases in the retention software fees, as these are subject to change by the third-party provider.