🔥 Ready to learn how two brothers turned "unsexy" resale into a $50 billion industry franchise opportunity? In this episode of Eye on Franchising, I'm joined by Tyler and Zach Gordon—co-CEOs of Uptown Cheapskate and Kid to Kid—to break down the real economics of upscale thrift, secondhand fashion trends, sustainability, Gen Z appeal, and how you can own your own recession-resilient franchise with industry-leading margins.
🔥 Ready to learn how two brothers turned "unsexy" resale into a $50 billion industry franchise opportunity? In this episode of Eye on Franchising, I'm joined by Tyler and Zach Gordon—co-CEOs of Uptown Cheapskate and Kid to Kid—to break down the real economics of upscale thrift, secondhand fashion trends, sustainability, Gen Z appeal, and how you can own your own recession-resilient franchise with industry-leading margins.
We cover why resale is booming, how they market Lululemon for $20, why customers line up in the rain for full-priced drops, and what kind of owner thrives in this "addictive" business.
If you've ever considered buying a franchise, you can't miss this masterclass in modern retail franchising.
TIMESTAMPS
00:00 - Welcome to Eye on Franchising
01:30 - Meet Tyler & Zach Gordon (Uptown Cheapskate & Kid to Kid)
03:10 - The $50 Billion Resale Market Opportunity
06:30 - Why Resale is Recession-Proof & Tariff-Proof
09:45 - The “Aha Moment” That Proved This Model Works
12:20 - Changing Perceptions: Upscale Boutique vs. Dusty Thrift
15:55 - Customer Stories: From Skeptic to Multi-Unit Owner
19:00 - How They Market $20 Lululemon and Athleisure Brands
22:10 - Full-Price Events and the Scarcity Marketing Strategy
26:00 - Social Media Marketing and TikTok Thrifters
28:45 - Who is the Ideal Franchise Customer (Gen Z & Millennials)
31:20 - Kid to Kid’s Exchange Model for Parents & Grandparents
34:15 - Staffing Secrets: Why Customers Become Employees
37:40 - Franchisee Traits: The Addictive Business Puzzle
40:25 - Franchise Validation: How to Know It’s the Right Brand
43:10 - How Much Money Can You Make? AUVs & Profit Margins
46:50 - Top Franchisee Profiles & Personality Fit
50:00 - The Technology Edge: 20+ Person Dev Team at BaseCamp
54:20 - Advice for Aspiring Franchisees on Finding the Right Fit
57:00 - Final Words from Zach & Tyler
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