The franchise sector experienced accelerated growth in 2024. The latest survey by the Brazilian Franchise Association (ABF) shows that over a 12-month period, the sector grew by 14.4%, increasing from R$ 231.5 billion to R$ 264.8 billion. Among the areas of greatest prominence, according to the entity, is the Home and Construction sector. And it is in this positive scenario that CentralAr.com, the leader and reference in sales in the air conditioning e-commerce segment in Brazil, begins its expansion by opening its first franchises.
The brand, which celebrated its 35th anniversary in the air conditioning market this year, achieved a revenue of approximately R$ 1 billion in 2024, with over 300,000 units sold and expects to grow by up to 40% in 2025. As a goal for the coming months, CentralAr.com aims to expand its presence in the market through franchising, bringing the brand to a direct-to-consumer sales channel via physical stores.The units will have major market manufacturers such as LG, Samsung, Midea, Hitachi, Fujitsu, Daikin, Agratto, Consul, Gree, Elgin, Electrolux, Carrier, as well as specialized services such as installation and maintenance of the equipment.
With this movement, CentralAr.com aims to become the largest air conditioning store network in Brazil, with a project of over 200 units in five years. The first unit was opened in Araçatuba, in the interior of São Paulo, and now has three more stores in the regions of Itu, Itumbiara, and Goiânia, in the state of Goiás.
"We will bring all our expertise, values, and years of excellence in the digital universe climate control market into the physical environment. With the expansion of channels, we aim to generate new business and projects. Our focus is on consolidating the market with our partners through franchises. The new stores will strengthen and create a connection between the brand and the public through a complete and innovative experience. We are pioneers, and we want the franchisee to be a reference in their region," explains Marcel Souza, partner and sales director of CentralAr.
CentralAr.com Franchising Model
The brand offers different store options, ranging from 50m² to 150m², with two franchisee profiles: the first where the candidate migrates their brand, and the second where they start their first store, with an initial investment starting at R$ 75,000. The return forecast, according to the franchisor, is six months.
One of the main attractions of the brand to attract franchisees is that the units will not require physical stock – which will allow for more space to showcase the products and services offered to consumers, as well as reduce investment costs. A major differentiator of the business model is that franchises are being developed with clients who are part of the CentralAr.com Partners program – a total of nearly six thousand participants, including installers, retailers, architects, and professionals in the field.
"With the franchises, we will create an extremely high delivery standard focused on providing an exclusive customer experience. We will sell products and services, all in a qualified space with highly trained consultants, enhancing sales," explains Sandro Soder, Franchise Coordinator at CentralAr.com.
The brand will provide full support to the franchisee, such as initial training, assistance in choosing the commercial location, and hiring the team. Continuously, CentralAr.com will provide support in conventions, mentoring, sales management software, goal tracking, product launches, new lines, and training. Operational and technical assistance, as well as marketing and promotional actions, are also part of the support package that the franchisee will receive.
Technical Data Sheet:
Year of founding / Start of franchising:2024.
Current number of units:4 units inaugurated in Araçatuba and Itu
Goiânia, Itumbiara (Goiás), and Rio de Janeiro in progress.
Initial investment:R$75 thousand reais.
Royalties: 6%
Return period:6 months.
Physical space – Average size:50m² to 150m².
Number of employees:from 03 to 15 employees.
Advertising/publicity fund:1%
