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Education Franchises On the Rise

Tuesday, 27 May 2014 09:30 AM

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WHITEFISH, MT / May 27, 2014 / A recent Gallup® poll found that 70% of U.S. citizens believed college was "very important" in 2013, compared to just 60% in 1983 and 36% in 1978, but found that the majority (53%) were dissatisfied with the K-12 education system. Math and science were also ranked as two of the top three subjects studied in school that were most useful in adult life - areas where public schools have historically struggled.

Creative Learning Corporation (OTC: CLCN) has taken a unique approach to solving these problems by creating after-school programs that can help students improve their math and science skills using fun and engaging activities. Investors in education companies, like Leapfrog Enterprises, Inc. (NYSE: LF) or American Public Education, Inc. (NASDAQ: APEI), might want to keep an eye on this emerging company. In this article, we’ll take a look at the company’s recent second quarter financial results and where the stock may be headed over the coming quarters and years.

Also See: Creative Learning: An Undervalued Education Franchise

Franchise Growth

Creative Learning franchises after-school programs designed to improve science, technology, engineering and math ("STEM") scores in a fun and engaging way. Its flagship BRICKS 4 KIDZ(R) franchise teaches the principles of engineering, architecture and physics using LEGO(R) bricks, while its newer Challenge Island(R) is designed to develop creative thinking, problem solving, and core STEM skills.

In 2013, the company expanded its franchise footprint from 210 to 395, which resulted in significant revenue growth for shareholders. These trends continued during the first six months of 2014 with the addition of 117 domestic and international franchises, while the company also realized higher royalty revenue from existing franchisees that have been successfully expanding their businesses.

The success of its franchises is also apparent in the recognition it has received from Entrepreneur Magazine, where it was listed as the #1 Children’s Enrichment Franchise in the country and #2 Best New Franchise in the country. In addition to its growing presence in the United States, the company’s franchises can be found in 28 different countries around the world and growing.

Looking ahead, management "expects all of these trends to continue through this fiscal year" according to statements in its 10-Q filing with the SEC. As of early 2013, the company also began developing a third franchise called Sew Fun Studios that is in the process of registering with state franchise regulators. While no state registrations have been completed yet, shareholders should not discount its long-term potential.

Strong Growth

Creative Learning reported record revenue that nearly doubled to $2,003,351 and net income that roughly tripled to $347,686, or $0.03 per share. Net cash provided by operations for the six-month period jumped more than 530% from $202,151 to $1,279,728, while free cash flow reached $1,255,724 or $0.11 per share. These metrics have been steadily improving since the beginning of 2013 (see Figure 1).


Figure 1 – Free Cash Flow Growth – Source: YCharts

With shares trading at $2.60 a piece, the company’s free cash flow yield stands at approximately 8% on an annualized basis, which is considered to be an attractive valuation for most companies. An Altman Z-Score of 21.06, current ratio of 3.02, and debt-to-equity ratio of 0.02 also suggest that the company is well insulated against any potential issues stemming from debt or liquidity.

"We’re delighted with our first and second quarter performance and look forward to continuing the same performance throughout the year," said CEO Brian Pappas. "April and May have already been strong so we should have a great third quarter also. We focus tremendous energy on our franchisees through our support system and are constantly seeking ways to assist them in their local businesses."

Follow this link to receive free email updates on Creative Learning Corporation's progress: http://www.tdmfinancial.com/emailassets/clcn/clcn_landing.php

Disclosure

Except for the historical information presented herein, matters discussed in this release contain forward-looking statements that are subject to certain risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such statements. Emerging Growth LLC is not registered with any financial or securities regulatory authority, and does not provide nor claims to provide investment advice or recommendations to readers of this release. For making specific investment decisions, readers should seek their own advice. Emerging Growth LLC may be compensated for its services in the form of cash-based compensation or equity securities in the companies it writes about, or a combination of the two. For full disclosure please visit: http://secfilings.com/Disclaimer.aspx

More Information

Company Website

Recent SEC Filings

SOURCE: Emerging Growth LLC  

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