Maaco FDD Item 19: Financial Performance Representations | What Franchisees Need to Know
Maaco’s FDD Item 19 provides financial performance data for 317 mature franchised centers, making it one of the more substantial datasets in the automotive franchise sector. The centers have operated for an average of 25.9 years, creating a dataset that reflects established operations rather than new launches. However, 19 centers closed during 2024 and are excluded from the analysis, creating survivorship bias that prospective franchisees must account for.
At Lopes Law LLC, we review Maaco FDDs and help clients interpret the Item 19 data in the context of their specific market and investment objectives. This guide explains what the data shows and what it does not.
What Does Maaco Item 19 Include?
| Metric | Detail | Significance |
|---|---|---|
| Total Centers in System | 363 | End of 2024 fiscal year |
| Centers in Item 19 | 317 | Open 2+ years, full reporting |
| Average Operating Period | 25.9 years | Very mature locations |
| Centers Excluded | 46 (including 19 closures) | 12.7% of system excluded |
| Performance Segmentation | Top 50% / Bottom 50% | Based on gross receipts |
Understanding Survivorship Bias in Maaco’s Data
The exclusion of 19 closed centers from Item 19 is significant. These were the worst-performing locations in the system. By definition, they generated revenue below the system average (likely well below) before closing. Their exclusion inflates the reported averages and makes the remaining data look better than the system as a whole actually performed.
At Lopes Law LLC, we adjust for survivorship bias by estimating what the system-wide average would look like if the closed locations were included. This gives clients a more realistic picture of potential outcomes, including the risk of failure.
Attorney’s note: With 19 centers closing in a single year out of 363 total (5.2%), Maaco’s closure rate warrants attention. While some closures are due to operator retirement or personal reasons, a significant closure rate can indicate system-level challenges with profitability, location economics, or franchisor-franchisee relations. At Lopes Law LLC, we always ask why centers are closing and whether the trend is improving or worsening.
Reviewing a Maaco FDD Right Now?
At Lopes Law LLC, our $3,000 flat-fee FDD validation review includes detailed Item 19 analysis. Free 20-minute consultation.
Comparing Top 50% vs. Bottom 50%
Maaco’s decision to segment performance into top and bottom halves is useful for setting expectations. If your center falls into the bottom 50%, your gross receipts and resulting owner income will be significantly lower than the overall average. The gap between the top and bottom halves indicates the performance variability within the system and helps you assess what level of performance is needed for your investment to succeed.
For related analysis, see our guide on Item 19 interpretation, our FDD review guide, and our franchise exit audit service.
Important: Financial data is based on publicly available Maaco FDD information. Actual results vary. Always review the current FDD with a qualified franchise attorney before investing.
Frequently Asked Questions About Maaco FDD Item 19
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Last updated: March 12, 2026
Understand the Financial Picture Before You Invest
At Lopes Law LLC, our flat-fee FDD validation review includes detailed Item 19 analysis for Maaco. Free 20-minute consultation.