Have you ever walked into a Play It Again Sports store? If you have, you probably felt that little spark—something a bit magical in the air. You see rows of well-kept baseball gloves, bikes that are all set for their next adventure, and treadmills that still have plenty of miles left in them. For anyone who loves sports, it honestly feels like discovering a hidden treasure.
But if you’re someone who’s thinking beyond just buying gear—maybe you’re an aspiring entrepreneur—you might be asking a different question: what’s the business story behind all this? Is owning a Play It Again Sports franchise a smart investment, or just another shot in the dark? Let’s dive into it and explore the real deal together.
So, What Exactly Is Play It Again Sports?
Play It Again Sports is a well-established retail franchise that specializes in buying, selling, and trading both new and gently used sports and fitness equipment. It was founded back in 1983 and is now proudly part of the Winmark Corporation—which also owns other popular resale brands like Plato’s Closet and Once Upon A Child. Over the years, it’s carved out a strong reputation in the resale market, especially among people who care about affordability, quality, and sustainability.
With over 250 locations across North America, it caters to everyday athletes, parents with growing kids, budget-conscious buyers, and eco-conscious consumers who love the idea of giving gear a second life.
Why Do People Love It?
- Affordability is a huge draw. Sporting goods can be expensive, especially for kids who outgrow their gear every season. Play It Again Sports offers an affordable alternative without sacrificing quality.
- Sustainability is another big plus. In a world increasingly aware of waste and overconsumption, this store’s buy-sell-trade model fits right into the eco-friendly movement.
- Convenience makes it even better. Customers can walk in with equipment they no longer use, and walk out with cash, store credit, or a new item in hand.
How the Franchise Works
If you’re thinking of joining the Play It Again Sports family as a franchisee, here’s what you need to know:
- Initial Investment: Ranges between $300,000 to $400,000. This includes franchise fees, equipment, inventory, and setup costs.
- Franchise Fee: Around $25,000.
- Ongoing Royalties: Typically about 5% of gross sales.
- Training & Support: Winmark provides extensive training, marketing tools, real estate guidance, and business support.
The company focuses on helping franchisees become successful multi-unit operators. You don’t have to be a sports expert, but retail and management experience certainly help.
What Kind of Profit Are We Talking About?
Every business is different, but Winmark publishes some helpful data in its franchise disclosure documents (FDD). On average:
- Top-performing stores report over $1 million in annual sales.
- Average stores typically pull in $650,000 to $900,000.
- Margins can vary, but gross profit margins are generally healthy because of low-cost used inventory.
That said, success depends heavily on:
- Your store’s location
- Local demand for sports gear
- How well you manage inventory and customer service
Like any business, there are no guarantees, but the potential is definitely there.
Who Is This Franchise Best For?
This isn’t a passive income play. Play It Again Sports works best for:
- Hands-on owners who want to be actively involved
- Families looking to run a community-friendly business
- Fitness enthusiasts or former athletes passionate about sports
- Investors interested in a growing resale industry
It’s a feel-good business. You’re helping people save money, stay active, and recycle responsibly.
What Do Real Owners Say?
Many franchisees speak highly of the model. Common themes include:
- “Customers love the value and variety.”
- “Inventory management is key to success.”
- “It’s hard work, but rewarding.”
Challenges often mentioned:
- Competition with big box stores or online retailers
- Fluctuating seasonal demand (especially winter vs. summer sports)
- Staffing and training issues
But overall, the sentiment is positive. It’s a community-focused business that many owners feel proud to run.
What Sets It Apart From Other Sports Stores?
- Resale-Based Model: Unlike traditional retailers, you’re not stuck with dead stock. You buy what sells locally.
- Customer Loyalty: Because of trade-in options, people keep coming back.
- Low Cost of Goods: Gently used inventory offers higher margins.
- Sustainability Factor: It taps into growing environmental consciousness.
Risks You Should Know About
No business is risk-free. Here are a few things to consider:
- Used inventory isn’t always predictable. You’ll need to know what sells and be selective about what you buy.
- Market saturation in some areas could limit your growth potential.
- Economic downturns may reduce discretionary spending on sports gear.
- Franchise fees and royalties add up and require smart budgeting.
Doing thorough market research before choosing your location is absolutely essential.
SEO Tip: Is There an Online Version?
While Play It Again Sports primarily runs physical locations, some stores now offer limited online listings or social media promotions. But it’s not a fully integrated e-commerce brand yet.
This actually creates a unique edge for franchisees: You’re not competing with the main brand online. Local SEO, Google Maps optimization, and Facebook Marketplace can work wonders for foot traffic.
Tips If You’re Considering This Franchise
- Visit several stores to see how they operate.
- Talk to franchisees about their day-to-day challenges and wins.
- Study your local sports culture (e.g., hockey gear in the north, baseball in the south).
- Plan for seasonality by balancing winter/summer gear.
- Invest in customer service training for staff.
Final Verdict: Opportunity or Bust?
So, is Play It Again Sports a business opportunity or a bust?
Honestly, it looks like a solid opportunity for the right person. If you love sports, believe in sustainability, and are ready to hustle in a retail environment, this could be a profitable and fulfilling path.
It’s not a get-rich-quick scheme, but it’s not a shot in the dark either. With smart management, community involvement, and a passion for helping people stay active, this franchise can be a real winner.
Quick Recap:
| Factor | Summary |
|---|---|
| Investment | $300k – $400k total |
| Best For | Hands-on owners, families, community-minded entrepreneurs |
| Pros | Affordable inventory, community brand, sustainability angle |
| Cons | Seasonal swings, retail challenges, upfront costs |
| ROI Potential | Moderate to high with active management |
Got more questions about franchise businesses or sports retail? Drop them in the comments—we’re always here to chat!
