Once Upon A Child

Once Upon A Child is a North American retail franchise that focuses on buying and selling gently used children’s clothing, shoes, toys, and baby equipment. The company was established in 1984 to offer families a practical and affordable way to shop for quality kids’ items while supporting sustainable consumption. It operates as part of Winmark Corporation, a publicly traded company known for managing several successful resale brands.

As of November 2025, Once Upon A Child has grown to 414 stores, making it the largest children’s resale franchise in North America. Its stores are primarily found in suburban shopping centers and neighborhoods that attract families, and each location sources its inventory directly from local customers. Over the past five years, the brand has steadily expanded its reach, with a particular focus on growing its franchise network in both the United States and Canada. This recent period has seen ongoing store openings and new franchise awards, especially in high-priority markets such as Texas, Florida, California, Illinois, Ohio, and Ontario.

A significant milestone in the company’s history is its consistent recognition as a top franchise opportunity within its category, reflecting a strong reputation among both franchisees and industry observers. The brand’s approach—franchise-driven growth, a proven operating model, and a track record of driving repeat visits—has made it a reliable presence in neighborhood retail centers. Backed by the credibility and operational expertise of Winmark Corporation, Once Upon A Child continues to attract new franchisees and expand its footprint in areas with strong family demographics and demand for sustainable retail options.