THE ART OF FUN seeks franchise partners across the region and Europe

THE ART OF FUN, a creative entertainment studio concept launched by Martin Lešković, is seeking franchise partners in various markets, primarily in Croatia’s neighbouring markets and across Europe. In an interview published on Franchising.hr on 19 October 2026, the founder explained how the concept began and outlined his plans for further expansion through franchise partnerships.

A creative studio where talent is not a requirement

The concept is not based on traditional art tuition, but on providing a space where visitors can have fun, connect and create something of their own. Paints, canvases and balloons provide the basis for an alternative outing, family get-together or gathering with colleagues. No painting talent is required: the emphasis is on enjoyment and an experience that guests want to repeat.

Lešković started the business with no experience in art or franchising. His original idea was to create a place for shared experiences, rather than a space intended only for people who already paint or consider themselves creative. This positioning is central to understanding the offering: creative materials are part of the activity, while socialising is at the heart of the concept.

For a prospective partner, this is an important distinction when assessing the business opportunity. Rather than focusing solely on the artistic content, they should consider who might be interested in such an experience at their location. The different reasons for visiting highlighted by the concept — from family outings to gatherings with colleagues — can provide initial categories for testing local interest, but are not evidence of future demand.

Franchising was the plan from the outset

According to Lešković, THE ART OF FUN was conceived as a franchise from the outset, rather than a business that would remain a single studio. In the interview, he also spoke openly about an early challenge: as he put it, they found themselves in the franchise business before they were fully ready.

That statement provides important context for the current search for partners. Developing a creative concept and preparing it to be operated by other entrepreneurs are two different tasks. Prospective franchisees should therefore combine discussions about the guest experience with specific questions about how the business is replicated at a new location.

It would be particularly worth checking the arrangements for training, day-to-day operations and partner support. These are matters to investigate before making a decision, not claims about what THE ART OF FUN offers. The founder’s account of the early stages gives candidates good reason to ask how the system has since been prepared for further expansion and what obligations each party takes on.

A focus on neighbouring and European markets

The founder’s current message is that he is seeking partners in various markets, primarily in the surrounding region and across Europe, who want to develop the concept together. For those exploring franchise opportunities in Croatia, the offering is best assessed on its specific features: creative entertainment, shared activities and expansion through partnerships.

An invitation to potential partners should be distinguished from a confirmed opening. An announcement that the business is seeking partners does not, in itself, mean that a new location has been agreed or an expansion timetable established. An entrepreneur considering a particular city should therefore begin by checking whether the territory is available and on what terms they could join the network.

The next useful step is to assess whether the concept suits the local audience. For example, discussions with potential guests and business customers can help gauge interest in creative social activities. This does not replace a financial plan, but it can help shape questions about premises, scheduling sessions and marketing the offering before taking on contractual commitments.

What to check about the quoted €23,000 figure

The THE ART OF FUN franchise listing on Franchising.hr quotes a figure of €23,000. This may provide an initial guide for interested parties, but it should not automatically be treated as the total budget needed to open a studio and fund its early operations.

Before making a financial commitment, candidates should request a detailed breakdown of what the quoted amount covers, which items are paid for separately and whether there are any ongoing fees. Premises, fit-out, staffing, materials and the initial operating period should also be considered separately. These are recommended areas for investment due diligence, not a confirmed list of costs for this franchise.

It is equally important to clarify what support and benefits a partner receives throughout the relationship, not just at opening. Practical takeaway: interested entrepreneurs should use THE ART OF FUN’s invitation as an opportunity for a detailed discussion about territory, support and the full cost of investment, and make a decision only after checking local demand and the contractual terms.