Propane Franchise

"We enjoy a comfortable income from this business."

"We have owned a 1st Propane^® franchise since 1998. During this time we have grown to over 1300 customers, and enjoy a comfortable income from the business.

1st Propane's^® support and training have kept us on track to continue to grow and profit from providing dependable propane service to our community"

-Mike and Kristi Russell,
1st Propane Co-Owners in Snowflake, AZ


Who should buy a 1st Propane franchise?

1st Propane provides bulk propane to rural homeowners and businesses. This is an established product - not a fad. You don't deliver propane. Your skilled employees do.

Individuals: If you have the business management skills, this is the franchise that will allow you to live in a rural are and serve your neighbors with quality propane service.

Investors/Multi-Unit Developers: Our systems are set up for you to easily track your business and communicate in "real-time" with your employees.

Propane Professionals: If you have experience with hiring and budgeting, 1st Propane is the solution you need to fully utilize your skills and experience in building your business.

Plumbing/Heating Contractors: You already have the skilled employees, business infrastructure, and a market presence in your community.

Fireplace/Hearth/Patio Store Owners: If you sell propane appliances, ensure your customer's long-term satisfaction by offering propane installation service, and allow your self to enjoy the continuing revenues from their propane consumption.


Quick start-up. Home-based. No experience necessary.

Our industry is entering the "golden age." With yearly propane sales exceeding $10 billion dollars, there's tremendous growth potential for you.

And, your franchise can be up and running promptly.

Here's a few more reasons to consider 1st Propane:

Large Territories: We only sell territories that already have at least 10,000 homes using propane. And, in most areas we have established relationships with producers or wholesale distributors. If there is not an established relationship in your area, we will develop a reliable supplier relationship to cover your territory.

No Minimum Wage Employees: You hire only skilled and semi-skilled employees, enabling you to pay them adequately, making it easier to maintain a stable and inspired staff. Thus, we want franchisees with business management experience. A typical franchise owner will start with 2-3 employees and grow to 4-5 employees.

No Walk-In Office: No required storefront enables you to have flexibility with your family and work schedule as long as you have good communication systems. Our PLATO system enables you to work from home or anywhere you have Internet access.

PLATO or (Propane Logistics, Accounting, Training, Online): This is a proprietary online business management system that you use to manage your business. It is included as part of the franchise program.

High Customer Retention: Long-term customer relationships are possible because your competitors are not permitted to fill your tanks (it is illegal in all 50 states). The 1st propane system enables you to provide excellent service at reasonable rates.

Rural Living: Enjoy the benefits of living and serving rural areas. A 1st Propane^® franchise is focused mainly on rural homes that are using propane to heat the home.


The future for propane is bright.

For qualified individuals, 1st Propane offers a sophisticated and professional system to provide the energy that is a necessity.

Propane is clean, efficient, economical and less expensive than electricity. Commercial energy users, such as hotels, restaurants and retail stores, use propane for many of the same purposes as residential customers.

Financial Qualifications:

a. A minimum of $100,000 liquid capital.
b. A minimum of $250,000 net worth.