First Discount Travel
Franchising since 1994 · 4 locations
The total investment to open a First Discount Travel franchise ranges from $40,000 - $84,000. First Discount Travel currently operates 4 locations (4 franchised). The top SBA 7(a) lenders for First Discount Travel are Wells Fargo Bank, Associated Bank and Bank of America. PeerSense FPI health score: 31/100.
$40,000 - $84,000
4
4 franchised
Proprietary PeerSense metric
LimitedActive capital sources verified for First Discount Travel financing
SBA
7(a) Eligible
21d
Avg Funding
P+2.25%
Best Rate
No retainers · Referral fee at closing
FPI Score Breakdown
Emerging (3-9 loans)
SBA Lending Performance
SBA Default Rate
20.0%
1 of 5 loans charged off
SBA Loans
5
Total Volume
$0.3M
Active Lenders
4
States
5
Top SBA Lenders for First Discount Travel
What is the First Discount Travel franchise?
The First Discount Travel franchise presents an intriguing opportunity within the dynamic travel agency sector, offering entrepreneurs a pathway into an industry characterized by global connectivity and personal experience. Headquartered in None, IA, this burgeoning brand currently operates a focused network of four units, signifying a deliberate and potentially strategic approach to market penetration and foundational development. As a specialized entity within the broader travel landscape, it positions itself within the highly competitive yet ever-evolving segment of travel agencies, catering to consumers seeking value and personalized service in their travel arrangements. The core mission, as implied by its designation, likely revolves around providing cost-effective travel solutions without compromising on the quality of experience or the efficiency of booking processes. This approach resonates with a significant demographic of travelers who prioritize economic viability alongside memorable journeys. The travel agency category itself has undergone substantial transformation over recent decades, adapting to the rise of online booking platforms and shifting consumer behaviors, yet the role of a knowledgeable and dedicated travel advisor continues to hold significant appeal for complex itineraries, group bookings, or those desiring expert guidance and a human touch. This brand, with its modest but established presence, aims to carve out its niche by emphasizing specific value propositions that differentiate it in a crowded marketplace, allowing franchisees to leverage a brand identity centered on accessible travel. The strategic placement of its four current units, while not detailed, suggests a carefully considered expansion model, building a foundation for future growth in an industry that remains robust despite economic fluctuations, driven by an inherent human desire for exploration and new experiences. This foundational stage offers a unique entry point for individuals aspiring to contribute to and benefit from the resilience and inherent demand within the travel sector.
FPI Score
31/100
SBA Default Rate
20.0%
Active Lenders
4
Key Highlights
Franchise Financing Resources
Data Insights
Key performance metrics for First Discount Travel based on SBA lending data
SBA Default Rate
20.0%
1 of 5 loans charged off
SBA Loan Volume
5 loans
Across 4 lenders
Lender Diversity
4 lenders
Avg 1.3 loans per lender
Investment Tier
Low-cost entry
$40,000 – $84,000 total
First Discount Travel — Deep SBA Data
Brand-specific metrics derived directly from SBA 7(a) approval records — peak lending year, leading state, average loan size, and lender concentration. PeerSense computes these per brand so capital advisors and prospective franchisees can benchmark this opportunity against the rest of the franchise universe.
Peak SBA Year
1997
2 approvals — best year on record for First Discount Travel.
Top SBA State
Wisconsin
1 SBA-financed First Discount Travel locations — the densest operator footprint.
Average Loan Size
$58K
Median $50K — use as a sizing anchor when modeling your own $First Discount Travel unit.
Lender Concentration
80%
Concentrated
Share of First Discount Travel approvals captured by the top 3 SBA lenders.
First Discount Travel's SBA lending pipeline peaked in 1997 (2 approvals). Operator density is highest in Wisconsin with 1 SBA-financed locations. Average funded ticket sits at $58K, with the median at $50K. Lender mix is concentrated: the top three SBA lenders account for 80% of approvals — credit decisions concentrate with a small group of incumbents.
Payment Estimator
Estimated Monthly Payment
$414
Principal & Interest only
Locations
First Discount Travel — unit breakdown
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