Information on women in franchising at whichfranchise.com

Live the Dream of Working For Yourself

Fri, 24 Oct 2008 04:09:00 GMT

Information on women in Franchising at WhichFranchise.com

Trophy Pet Foods Hampshire is owned and operated by Wendy & Dean Smith, with the help of their Doberman Bonnie who likes to personally test all the food and treats!

I work on the business full time and my husband Dean works with me when he is not working on the ‘day job’ as a shift manager for a large food production company. Before starting the Trophy business I worked as an Operations Manager for a Management Consultancy. We had always had a dream of working for ourselves, being our own boss and building a successful business that eventually we could both work on full time. Additionally, I had always thought “if I had my time again” I would love to work with animals - Trophy Pet Foods certainly ticked all the right boxes.

We have only been operating since August 2007 and are having a fantastic time. We have the most wonderful customers and talking to people about their pets and their pets needs is a real pleasure.

It is important to have excellent diary management skills and be firm about time spent on the business - it takes discipline to walk away from the office at the end of the day (luckily for me it is in a spare bedroom so not too far to walk!). Trophy is an excellent product and the food sells itself – many of our new customers come from referrals (unsolicited) which I believe speaks for itself.

In the beginning there is cold calling to be done but as we are now finding there are alternatives to canvassing which can be equally successful. You need to be a people person and be able to set achievable goals and stick to them.

The support from our FSM and Trophy Head Office is excellent – no question is ever too silly and the team in Faringdon Head office and the warehouse cannot do enough to help you.

Freedom with The Original Poster Company franchise

Fri, 05 Dec 2008 04:09:00 GMT

Information on women in Franchising at WhichFranchise.com

Rachel Kirk
Franchisee, Sheffield

Running one of the top five performing territories in the UK wasn't always what Rachel Kirk had in mind. Prior to that, she worked a nine-to-five job with little autonomy, and found spending quality time with her children was difficult. But eight years ago, the chance sighting of an OPC advertisement in a national newspaper ignited a chain of events. Today Rachel generates a profit of more than £40,000 a year running a business with a huge resale value - and she has all the flexibility she needs!

I saw the OPC franchise opportunity advertised in the Daily Mail. I'd already heard a lot about OPC in my previous job working for a recycling paper merchant that supplied OPC. I knew from the high level of orders OPC put in that it was a big company. I also knew that they had a very good reputation. On seeing the ad, I phoned them straightaway and learned that the Sheffield territory was up for sale. I expressed my interest, and OPC sent me a selection of their cards, along with some information about their company. I then did some of my own background research visiting local retailers to look at the card ranges in situ, and to find out what OPC was like to deal with. The feedback I got was really positive... the cards sold well, and the service the OPC franchisee provided was excellent. Everything seemed to fall into place, so I bought the business in 2000.

Since then I've seen many positive changes in the way the Support Office runs the business. Franchisees today benefit from more training than I had when I started out, and they are also made aware of exactly what's involved in running the business, such as how much stock is required. The level of stock I hold now is much higher than when I began, and this is really very important for new franchisees to know, as they will need to factor a decent sized stock room into their business plan. I work out of a converted garage, which is ideal. Another important thing to know is that there's quite a lot of moving stock around, so you need to be in pretty good shape - and you need a suitable vehicle. Sometimes I take deliveries of about thirty boxes, and I'll be moving boxes in and out of my car on a regular basis.

Day-to-day, a large proportion of my time is spent merchandising, which involves taking stock out of customers' shops, counting what's been sold and putting fresh stock back into the shop. The money I make is based on the difference between what I put in and what I take back each month. I also try to spend 20 percent of my time winning new customers.

The main issue for them is how much space they have available, but once you have a presence on the shop floor, and prove that you are reliable, it becomes much easier to install another card display. Once you know what you are doing, the OPC business is simply a matter of routine. I've never run my own business before, but I've discovered after eight years with OPC that the things I value most about the business are the autonomy and flexibility I have.

It takes time to get used to the responsibility of having nobody but yourself to answer to, and it can be difficult to switch off sometimes. But these are minor points compared to the freedom and benefits that come from running your own greeting card franchise. You've also got the potential to expand when you feel ready. At the moment, I'm selling around 12,000 cards a month, with a gross profit of around £40,000.

I want to push that up to around 15,000 a month, which would gross me around £50,000. I've already got a merchandiser who works for me, and someone who helps to sort the cards in the stock room, so it shouldn't take long to reach my target.

To read more about the franchise resale of West Sheffield, please click here.

Additionally, read about Rachel's Chesterfield resale here and Matlock resale here.

B*WITCHED by Popstars Academy franchise!

Thu, 11 Dec 2008 04:09:00 GMT

Information on women in Franchising at WhichFranchise.com

Lindsay enjoyed worldwide success with B*witched girl band with hits such as ‘C’est La Vie’ and ‘Blame it on the Weatherman’. Their first 4 singles debuted at number one in the UK, putting them in the Guinness book of records as the first girl group every to achieve this. They sold over 10 million records around the world and toured with Justin Timberlake and Britney Spears.

Popstar Parties franchise provide Parties with Dance Instruction to many of the current chart songs combined with some all time favourites. Choreographed Dance Routines with a mix of Popstar Games, music, lights, and many Popstar Props including Blow Up Guitars, Glitter Microphones, Cheer Leader Pom Poms, Dance Ribbons, Glitter Hats and prizes - ensuring that a Popstar Party is always a huge success. Also very popular are High School Musical & Grease ‘themed’ Parties. Complimentary invitations provided.

The weekly Popstars Academy Dance Classes originated from the popularity of the parties. The lessons are a mixture of energising ‘feel good’ routines combined with more challenging choreography. We always pride ourselves on being up-to-date with the latest chart tracks, new trends and influences from television, cinema and theatre. As with our parties, the students enjoy using our array of Dance Props each week. Our ethos is for the children to progress whilst enjoying themselves, building self esteem and confidence without the pressure of exams. The Classes are suitable for school children aged 4-11.

Loving every minute of Musical Minis franchise

Tue, 27 Jan 2009 04:09:00 GMT

Information on women in Franchising at WhichFranchise.com

Jacquie Sedman has always enjoyed working with children, having qualified as a nursery nurse. Her hard work and enthusiasm were recognised in her role as deputy manager of a private nursery but the long hours finally took their toll and Jacquie decided it was time for change. Since April 2005, Jacquie has successfully led the Durham franchise of Musical Minis and is loving every minute.

“Rather than benefit an employer, I wanted to benefit myself for my hard work and enthusiasm. I also wanted a career which was flexible to fit in around my family,” said Jacquie. “I was working an average 50 hour week and realised that things couldn’t continue the way they were.”

With the internet being her main resource Jacquie searched to find the ideal solution. Jacquie considered several options but when she discovered franchising, she knew she had found just what she was looking for. Franchising would enable Jacquie to be her own boss but have the support of an established business model. She explains; “I soon discovered that franchising offered the benefit of working alone but help was at hand should I need it. It would allow me to benefit from my own efforts rather than striving to please an employer. I now could dedicate myself to my own clients and use my reputation with children to be successful.”

With Jacquie’s childcare qualification and experience she narrowed the search. “My determination to use my skills set and have total job satisfaction was paramount and I discovered that Musical Minis enabled that to become reality.”

Having decided that Musical Minis ticked all of the right boxes a visit to the company’s website couldn’t have been more timely. Jacquie explains; “I could remember that the Durham franchise had been running for a number of years previously and upon visiting the website I discovered that the same area was for sale. It was meant to be!”

A swift phone call to Musical Mini’s founder Karen Sherr provided all the information and confidence that Jacquie needed to proceed with starting her own business. “Karen’s approachable, friendly nature shone through and made me feel at ease. I reeled off a great many questions, all of which were answered,” continues Jacquie. “I didn’t even look into any other opportunities as I immediately felt this was right.”

Having taken the time to discuss and analyse all of the information with her family, it wasn’t long before Jacquie owned her own business.

Since April 2005 Jacquie has established her territory in and around Durham and has taken on the role of regional manager for Musical Minis in the North East. “I have found the ideal career to fit in with my family life and I am earning more than I did when working a 50-hour week!” said Jacquie; “My ambition is to employ staff and utilise my entire territory. I’d like to train and monitor other Musical Minis franchises and aid them in having similar success with their businesses.

“The success of my business has been incredible and I very rarely have vacancies in my sessions as word of mouth is so powerful,” continues Jacquie. “Not only are the children very special to us, we also share great friendships and positive experiences with the parents making it all very rewarding,” she added.

Running your own business requires support from the family and Jacquie’s Musical Minis franchise is no exception. “My family are very supportive, particularly my mum. She came to help me for the first few weeks and has been there ever since! She works with me voluntarily at every session and the children adore her. I am very lucky to have such an asset.”

Singing to the tune of Musical Minis franchise

Fri, 20 Feb 2009 04:09:00 GMT

Information on women in Franchising at WhichFranchise.com

Karen Sherr began Musical Minis when her first child was a baby because she could not find what she wanted for her son in the area. She had taken baby Matthew to an exercise group where the children sang a song at the beginning and end of each session. The singing was Matthew’s favourite part of the class.

Karen set out to find a group that focused exclusively on music as a fun activity but she was unsuccessful. She discovered instead that, generally, local music groups were very strict, requiring parents to make their small children concentrate on music for half an hour every day. Karen felt this was too rigid and wanted her baby to enjoy himself, with music involved, with other babies and small children.

At the same time, Karen was beginning to miss her old job and especially missed being surrounded by a ward full of children but she didn’t want to go back to work and leave her own baby. A combination of these factors led to the launch of Musical Minis.

The concept was based on what Karen, as a Mum, wanted for her child. She started a group, running one three-quarter hour session each week, for herself, her friends and their children. She devised the programme, bought the equipment, hired the hall and took out insurance.

One of the leaders at the original exercise group, Patricia Elson, joined as Karen’s business partner and helped run the session, so Karen and Matthew could join in the class and really enjoy it.

Karen was surprised by the instant popularity of her group. She had no idea that so many parents would wish their children to join and it soon became clear that she had started a business with a great future.

Husband Rob’s expertise, as a commercial banking manager, was invaluable in setting up the business. Karen and Rob financed Musical Minis themselves and ploughed all the profits back into the business for the first few years until they were ready to expand it.

Based close to Karen’s home in North West London, Musical Minis had taken off very quickly locally and the number of children attending grew rapidly. The potential for the business was obvious and, having satisfied a local demand, Karen and Rob realised that they could expand the classes nationally.

They started to consider franchising as a way forward when they were approached by mums who had attended the classes but then moved out of the area and wanted to set up their own groups.

Karen and Rob agreed that franchising would be the most efficient and cost-effective route to expansion. They thoroughly tried and tested all their systems and procedures until they were satisfied that they had a viable – and potentially profitable – opportunity to offer.

Seven years after they set up the original class, they opened their first franchise. They had been meticulous in checking everything with their lawyer. They had to register their trademark and became embroiled in a dispute which, ultimately, they won, but the process took a long time. The music had to be cleared and owned by Musical Minis, so they hired a music producer with a recording studio and using a male and female singer, produced their own recordings. Next they had to create the lesson tapes, apply for a licence to the Mechanical Copyright Protection Society (MCPS), duplicate the tapes and pay the required Royalties.

Karen continued to run classes in her area and has built up a wealth of first-hand knowledge and experience to share with franchisees, especially if they have a problem or need some guidance. She also heads franchisee training.

A new challenge with Petpals

Tue, 03 Mar 2009 04:09:00 GMT

Information on women in Franchising at WhichFranchise.com

Mum-of-two Clare Needham knew she needed a new challenge when she was made redundant in 2002.

Having worked in the IT industry for 18 years, the shock of redundancy acted as a catalyst for Clare who had toyed with the idea of setting up her own business.

She attended a franchise exhibition to explore the options open to her and was drawn to Petpals due to her love of animals and the great outdoors. Persuaded by the advantages of being her own boss, Clare took the plunge and set up Petpals Fleet in June 2002.

Clare takes up the story: “It all started really when we bought a dog to help my younger daughter, Holly, get over her fear of dogs. Millie the golden retriever moved in with us and it all tied in when I discovered Petpals at the franchise fair.

“We haven’t looked back since and I certainly couldn’t go back to working in an office. There’s nothing to replace the outdoor life.”

Over the last six years, Petpals Fleet has built an enviable reputation for excellent service whether it’s dog walking, visiting cats and other small pets at home or boarding dogs.. and even a gosling.

Said Clare: “That was one of our more unusual requests. I was asked if I could ‘board’ a four-week-old gosling on its holiday from the farm! We get asked to do all sorts of things. One I particularly remember was when I had to feed some bearded dragon lizards while their owners were on holiday. This involved giving them live locusts, but not before they had been dipped in a vitamin powder!”

Clare and her dedicated team of pet carers work closely with the local community, including vets, the police and community groups to deliver a personally-tailored service that puts pets first.

Millie the golden retriever has been joined by Lucy the terrier cross and Esther the elderly cat, all sharing Clare’s home with daughters Holly, aged 12, and 14-years-old Beth.

Clare’s leap into the unknown when she set up Petpals Fleet has certainly paid off as she’s now one of Petpals’ top-performing franchisee. And Holly has overcome her fear of dogs.

Proven success with ComputerXplorers

Fri, 13 Mar 2009 04:09:00 GMT

Information on women in Franchising at WhichFranchise.com

Diane Taylor
ComputerXplorers
South Midlands
Commenced Trading : March 2007
Previous Occupation: Retail Area Manager for various companies including, Adams,MK1, Claire's Accessories

Why you chose to buy into a franchise?
Support without being stifling. Proven success (over 22 years in the US). Some elements of risk removed due to being a franchise rather than being out on your own - surveys show that 90%+ of franchises still trading after 2 years versus 20% of independent companies.

Why did you choose ComputerXplorers?
Utilising all my hats i.e. Manager and Mother. Many transferable skills from retail which are appropriate also a sector that I can include my whole family in. Imagine working in Ann Summers and your children asking about where you work! Support structure without being stifling. Balance of lifestyle seeing more of my children and they can be involved in my work. New opportunity so, there is some ability to help mould the direction of the business i.e. sharing of best practice.

How have you found the training and support given by ComputerXplorers?
Excellent for a business in its infancy. Some of the US training is obviously American orientated but the overall experience of going to U.S. was excellent. UK training is focused being on marketing, sales, recruitment etc. Support when required without being too intrusive. The level of knowledge is improving weekly due to all learning from new experiences daily.

How has the business started for you?
Slowly but steady. Summer a great deal more successful than first anticipated. September will be amazing. A case of the chicken and the egg when getting started, when it comes to teachers and classes.

What has been the response of customers (schools, parents, children)?
When they experience the classes they love it. Very few drop out from one term to the next.

How do you see the business progressing?
I would forecast that the business will be catering to in excess of 25 schools by January. Nurseries are slow on the uptake but I would envisage approximately 6 by the same time. As people become familiar with the brand it will grow. Brand awareness is the key to its success.

Do you have any advice to anybody considering ComputerXplorers as a franchise?
You need to be self motivated and passionate about the sector. It can be lonely but very rewarding.

Natalie Davies launched her Auditel franchise

Wed, 29 Apr 2009 04:09:00 GMT

Information on women in Franchising at WhichFranchise.com

Name: Natalie Davies
Location: Salisbury, Wiltshire
Franchise: Auditel – Cost and Purchase Management Consultants
www.auditelfranchise.co.uk

Why I chose franchising:
I needed flexible working hours as I have three children. My options were working part time or working for myself, I chose the latter so that I could keep control over my own success and didn’t have to sacrifice salary.

What I did before taking up a franchise:
I was a Senior Business Analyst for a large financial institution. I loved my job and my colleagues, but found that childcare was increasingly becoming a headache, I dreaded every school holiday. I tried part-time hours but found that I was not taken as seriously as full- time employees and was constantly side stepped for challenging projects.

Experience of Recruitment Process
After researching franchises for some time, the question was not whether to choose Auditel or another franchise, but whether to choose Auditel or nothing. Throughout the entire process, the Head Office team were open, honest, friendly and helpful. The network of Affiliates is one of the many benefits the organisation has to offer.

How I raised the finance:
We sold our house and used some of the equity to pay for the franchise. I have a very supportive husband. I also agreed a £10,000 overdraft for working capital.

The training and support I receive from my franchisor:
The training and support I received was fantastic and way beyond my expectations. Head Office and fellow franchisees have also kept me motivated and sane throughout the early stages and the ongoing training is limitless.

The challenges I have faced:
It can be distracting working from home and I have to maintain focus when there is housework to be done. I still find it hard to juggle work and childcare, frequently working evenings and weekends. However life is infinitely easier than working for someone else and my work life balance has improved significantly. I am now able to rearrange my working week in order to attend school events, nurse sick children or manage the school holidays.

My advice to someone thinking of buying their first franchise:
Go for it, I have never had any doubts. Find a franchise that fits with your personality, skills and interests. There is no point buying a client-facing franchise if you don’t like speaking to people. Above all research your franchise, my due diligence took 2 years!

Progress in the marketplace so far:
I am way ahead of my business plan and the outlook is good. It’s amusing when I think back to my initial concerns, none of them have materialised. I have been faced by new challenges that I hadn’t anticipated; surprisingly these are mainly my own personal traits such as time management and organisation.

My plans for the future:
The plan is for my husband to join me in the franchise and achieve the ultimate work life balance. We would both have complete control over our time and finances. Life doesn’t get much better than that!

No Regrets in Franchising

Wed, 29 Apr 2009 04:09:00 GMT

Information on women in Franchising at WhichFranchise.com

Jackie Bligh

Torquay, Paignton and Exeter
February 2011

I had spent 15 years working as an accountant in multi nationals and was becoming increasingly disillusioned with the ever increasing workloads and the headcount slashing mentality.

I had seen TaxAssist on the internet but hadn’t considered starting my own business due to being a single mum with no real assets. I made enquiries and found the government offered support in the way of the EFG loan scheme, and Tax Credits. After several meetings with Head office and the bank, I quit my well paid cushy job and jumped into the unknown!!!

I joined the TaxAssist training course in Oct 2005. I opted to go straight into a shop front and I opened for business in Torquay on the 2nd Jan 2006.

My first month was absolutely phenomenal and wouldn’t have been possible without the support I received from the accountants and tax specialists that run the helpline. They are dedicated solely to helping out the franchise network, and with their help I invoiced over £6k in my first four weeks and submitted around 20 self assessments, not bad for a beginner!

At the end of my fourth month I had 92 clients of which 65% were walk-ins!

What initially was my biggest fear, sales & marketing has become what I enjoy the most ….you can never be too pushy; If you don’t ask you don’t get and don’t forget your business cards if you’re going down the pub …..

Year 1 saw phenomenal growth, year 2 was the year of managing the existing clients, and year 3 was making the work more profitable, thank you kindly Mr Mack (Franchise Development Manager)! Marketing was put to one side at the end of Year 1, sadly, as I needed to cope with what we had and getting clients is the easy bit!

Year 3 saw the start of the credit crunch, and during the year we lost a fair number of clients as a result of the economy. Fortunately my sign up rates of new clients remained constant, and the net effect was that we grew by 40 clients. Even during a recession I was pleased to see growth albeit much slower than previous years ……..

Here I am updating my testimonial having celebrated my 5th year in the franchise in October 2010. Since I last wrote my update I have expanded massively, I opened my 2nd shop front in Paignton, Devon in August 2009 and then purchased an existing franchisees business in July 2010, giving me a total of 3 shops, 11 staff, 700 clients (excluding directors and partners) and turnover is circa £450k. Busy two years all in all!!! Rapid expansion does bring its headaches and is definitely not for the feint hearted!!! The last 6 months has been especially hard, merging two practices and hitting year end was tough, however I survived, learned a great deal, and once again a big thanks to the support centre!!!

What will the next 12 months bring? Well we are back to profitability of the acquired client base, there is little point in having all these clients if we are not making money!!! Plus I think if I mentioned expansion right now to my long suffering bank manager he may turn grey and retire!!! So the next 12 months will be natural growth and consolidation!!! I say this tongue in cheek as the diary is full over the next few weeks, we have seen an increase in walk-ins referrals and internet enquiries, so maybe the recession is well and truly over and my period of natural growth may in fact not be that calm!!!

With the merger I have been able to employ a tax manager and a full time sales and marketing manager, so I can now pull away from the “doing” and look more to the “managing” of the business!!! My aim of turning into work at 11am drinking coffee and chatting to clients may soon become a reality!!! Generally I am pretty exhausted having just overcome the worst of the merger and year end, however I’m not complaining we invoiced £105k in 7 weeks and I have rewarded myself with a 55” 3d TV J

I smile each time I am asked to update my testimonial as I can see how far I have come in a very short space of time, there is nothing quite like seeing your business grow!!! If I do have a down day, and we all do, it’s not long before I am smiling again and I have no doubt the next opportunity won’t be too far away!!!

I have absolutely no regrets whatsoever…I can honestly say leaving corporate life was the best thing I ever did…. my only wish is that I’d done it sooner!"

Female entrepreneurs enjoy benefits of franchising

Thu, 14 May 2009 04:09:00 GMT

Information on women in Franchising at WhichFranchise.com

Domino’s Pizza franchisee Juliet Liebenberg, is an example of a female entrepreneur who has chosen franchising a career that enables her to enjoy the benefits of running her own business while also allowing the flexibility to work around family life.

Juliet and her husband Kevin decided to take the plunge and opened their first Domino’s store in Sandhurst in 1998. Juliet explains: “We had always wanted to run our own business, but with a young family at the time, we wanted to set up a company with a level of security that just wasn’t possible if we had started up a business from scratch. Domino’s was the ideal choice for us as we knew we were buying into a proven business with a well-known brand and that we could also count on the advice and support of the franchisor.”

Following the success of their first Domino’s store, Juliet and Kevin went on to open a further four in Brighton, Bagshot, Hove and Peacehaven. The couple have three children, aged 15, 11 and nine years old. “Running a franchise is ideal for our lifestyle and allows us to get the best of both worlds,” continues Juliet. “I can work from home and fit it in around my family commitments so I never a miss a sports day or school assembly, but at the same time, it offers the great benefits and rewards of owning your own business.”

Juliet and Kevin plan to continue growing their business, with a sixth store set to open this year.

Leading the class with a Dream Doors franchise

Tue, 19 May 2009 04:09:00 GMT

Information on women in Franchising at WhichFranchise.com

Three years ago, mother-of-four Elaine Ryan knew nothing about franchising. Having worked for ten years supporting children with special educational needs she felt ready for a change, but to what she didn’t know. Then, while having a coffee with her husband John at a franchise exhibition, she spotted the Dream Doors stand.

“We found ourselves sitting directly opposite Dream Doors, and some of their team were demonstrating how quickly and easily an old kitchen could be made to look like a new kitchen – just by changing the doors and worktops. I was impressed by what I saw and said to John: ‘that’s something I wouldn’t mind having done in our own home’. It was at that point we realised there must be a market for people who would rather have a quick kitchen facelift than have their entire kitchen ripped out. That was the moment we started to think about buying a Dream Doors franchise.

At first, even though John was happy to get stuck into working full-time in the new business, I was nervous about leaving my existing job and losing a main income. All of my experience in the past had been working with children, and although I loved the job it didn’t give me the flexibility I wanted. Now, running my own business, I’ve found ways to merge work and home life more effectively, and I get to see more of my own children.

In the early days, when John was getting things off the ground, I did seriously think about working part-time at the school and Dream Doors, but it soon became clear that this would be unrealistic and that it would make more sense to commit fully to the franchise. I definitely made the right choice and don’t regret taking the step to becoming my own boss.

Some people might think that being a Dream Doors franchisee requires a lot of technical knowledge, but it doesn’t. In reality you don’t need any kitchen industry experience at all. Everything I wanted to know was covered in the training provided; I’ve never fitted a kitchen in my life, and would never want to, but that didn’t matter because our franchise manager Polly helped us recruit a great team of fitters.

For John and myself, the bulk of our daily work involves selling. Although it wasn’t something I was completely comfortable with at first, I’ve been out on sales visits a lot more recently and have discovered that I’m very good at it. In fact I’ve been successful with nearly every appointment I’ve had lately, so I’m enjoying it a lot more.

One thing I would say is that running a franchise with someone you’re so close to can be challenging. John and I often have very different ways of working, but if you’re mature about things you can use these differences to benefit the business. Most Dream Doors franchise owners are husband-and-wife teams. What we’ve learnt from listening to them, as well as from our own experiences, is that when the doors to the showroom and office close in the evening, any work problems should be left there to deal with the following morning.

Enthusiastic for Razzamataz franchise

Thu, 25 Jun 2009 04:09:00 GMT

Information on women in Franchising at WhichFranchise.com

Ellen Jameson
Littlehampton
Razzamataz Theatre Schools

Why I chose franchising
I decided to go down the franchise route as it provided me with the opportunity to have a national brand in a local area. The Razzamataz brand had achieved a high profile through its successful investment on the television show ‘Dragon’s Den’ (BBC). Capitalising on that meant customer recognition and an understanding of what to expect from Razzamataz Theatre Schools.

What I did before taking up a franchise
Before buying my franchise I was the President of a theatre company in Miami Beach, Florida. Prior to moving to the States – I had been a BBC broadcaster and Fleet Street Journalist.

How I raised the finance
I funded 50% of the franchise fee and start up costs from savings and raised a Business loan on the other 50%.

The training and support I receive from my franchisor
The start up and on going support has been comprehensive and unfailingly encouraging – all aspects of legal and statutory requirements regarding the training of children in performance arts; launch procedures, dealing with customers, increasing students numbers and marketing, advertising and direct mail outs have all been thoroughly explained ; administrative and accounting processes have been facilitated through templates and a dedicated resources site.

There is no aspect of setting up, running or maintaining a theatre school that has not been covered in the manual and the management team are approachable and accessible by emails and telephone support.

Ongoing training has also been provided in Head Office and site visits have been undertaken.

The challenges I have faced
The challenges have involved moving from a comfort zone of knowing how to mount productions but now needing to oversee the bigger picture and manage all aspects of running the business. This has proved to be beneficial now that I have a hands-on approach to the overall company and can guide members of staff in delivering the complete Razzamataz experience and philosophy. There has also been the challenge of increasing sales and pupil retention while continuing to deliver value for money.

My advice to someone thinking of buying their first franchise
I advise anyone thinking of franchising to buy into a business model in which they have either experience or a true enthusiasm – or preferably both. It is time consuming and worrying running your own business and you will initially likely be overwhelmed with taking care of the business almost to the exclusion of everything else. You will also need to ensure that you have the support of family or partners – business or personal – as you will require help in many areas other than those for which you are in a position to employ and pay people. Crucially you will also need their understanding of the need for you to be completely committed to your chosen venture. Also be realistic about profit potential – it will probably take longer than you anticipate to grow your numbers and be in a position where you are not needing to put all profits back into the company.

My plans for the future
Although I would have liked to pursue an ambitious expansion programme into other areas, I have now modified that proposal to allow me to concentrate on developing and growing the current school offering extended and diverse services. Customer loyalty is hard won in a competitive market and my commitment is to servicing those customers and building a long term client base.

Franchising is the best decision I could have made to give me the business I wanted – and the expertise to drive it.

Lighterlife franchise gives confidence to Yvonne

Thu, 25 Jun 2009 04:09:00 GMT

Information on women in Franchising at WhichFranchise.com

Yvonne has felt the impact of LighterLife in both her personal and professional life. After losing 4 stone on the programme and reaching a slim size 10, she became a self-employed LighterLife Weight-Management Consultant, helping others like herself throughout Wokingham.

The biggest thing for her was that LighterLife had given her the confidence to succeed in her career. “I used to be a European HR Director for an IT company and my fat would hold me back. I had no confidence at work and often felt fat and stupid. I wouldn’t take on extra assignments or go for a bigger job with more responsibility because I had no self-esteem in the workplace because of my fat”. Yvonne’s change of direction was a big leap but once her confidence grew due to losing the weight, she could re-assess her career, and realised that her previous job wasn’t making her happy.

Before LighterLife Yvonne would never have thought about starting her own business but afterwards her confidence went through the roof. “I knew that it would work and would put me in a win/win situation. Having tried other diets and weight loss programmes, I thought that the whole counsellor impact of the programme was revolutionary. It opened my eyes to a whole new way of thinking about food and I knew that it would work for the masses”.

Setting up the franchise was easy for her and within the first four months she had 90 clients, purely from word-of-mouth, the LighterLife website and referrals. Being the first counsellor in Wokingham she had a huge area covering Berkshire, High Wycombe, Newbury and Basingstoke; however, with her new-found confidence and passion for the programme Yvonne found this no problem and relished the challenge.

She now has 200 clients coming through her door and is planning on opening a second location due to the amazing success of her venture so far. Business is good and she has a certified nutritionist to speak to her groups quarterly, as well as recently starting a quarterly newsletter. It certainly keeps her busy, but she manages to balance her work and personal life well, making sure weekends are ‘family time’ and driving her children to school every morning.

Yvonne’s LighterLife career has gone from strength to strength and she would have no hesitation recommending the franchise to anyone else, especially during these tough economic times. “If you want to be able to manage your own destiny, then running your own business is your best opportunity as it leaves you in charge of what you want to do. From an industry point of view, LighterLife’s weight loss programme outweighs the competition because it works. It is much easier running a business with a product that has such a high success rate”.

From secretary to Plumplanet franchisor - with a lot of hard work!

Mon, 13 Jul 2009 04:09:00 GMT

Information on women in Franchising at WhichFranchise.com

To build and run Plumplanet franchise has taken a lot of hard work and some knocks along the way. It has not always been easy!

I turn 50 this year, and have worked hard my whole life since leaving college. Leaving college with only 5 GCSEs in those days meant I could either become a nurse, housewife or secretary, I chose the latter.

I worked in a number of secretarial posts, including one in a large manufacturing company. At the age of 23 I decided that paying rent to get someone else rich was doing nothing for me, so I purchased a studio flat. I was made redundant the next day!

To supplement my lack of income, I joined forces with a solo singing artist, and started literally singing for my supper!

The caretaker of my new flats then told me about a new software company that was potentially looking for administration workers. I approached them and started shortly after as a secretary. Whilst in the job, I was intrigued by the job of the salesmen. Watching them I felt I could do their job easily so I asked for the chance to do more, and it was granted.

My initial sales areas were tough as the company had no penetration in them i.e. Dublin and Scotland. I finally got to work in the London area with major blue chip organisations and banks such as Bank of England, NatWest, Lloyds Bank etc.

I was the only women working in this industry, and I loved that part of it. It was working here that I also met my husband.

Just as things were going well for me, I got an injury to my back which paralysed me for 3 months. After I recovered, I got a new job in a software company as the branch manager of a branch that was turning over £3 million.

Then disaster struck again, the company collapsed overnight putting 350 people out of work. This led to myself and two colleagues setting up a company called Oaktree Software; we turned over £¼ million in our first year. The partners in the firm had families to feed and were taking too much out of the company, so I left to start something new as I knew the company would never be allowed to grow to its full potential.

In 1993 I got married, and in 1994 we had our daughter. I was still keen to work but wanted to do something that allowed me to work around my daughter.

One day a friend asked my advice on a computer course he had been recommended to invest £500 in. It was completely over the top for what he needed so I spent some time talking him through what he did need, based on all my previous experience in using them for work. As it seemed to help him, he suggested that I should start a business teaching people how to use the computer.

In 1994 I started Keystroke Associates. I took a teaching qualification as well as a one day a week Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) for 2 years.

To widen keystroke’s exposure I took on self-employed trainers; all of whom are still doing well and enjoying the flexibility and independence that the job offers.

We also all enjoy the troubleshooting aspect of our job because you are learning new things all the time as technology changes almost by the hour. We have exceptional relationships with our client base as it is such a personable business and your clients almost become friends.

Because of the success of the trainers working locally, my husband suggested franchising out our business. We created a Ltd company under the name of Plumplanet; formed from “plum” my nickname, which also means desirable and “planet” because we want the world to be part of our franchise.

I decided to franchise because I wanted to give other people the thrill of running their own organisation just like I have, but with the added bonus of support all the way. I also wanted to see Plumplanet’s name around the country.

It has been tough at times. I’ve lost a long term friend in creating the franchise and I have met sceptics and disbelievers, but I believe in the service we offer and the way we offer it. We want other people to enjoy the fantastic feeling you create for yourself being your own BOSS.

My vision is to create a business that is known throughout the UK and to see our company name outside a number of office blocks. I want to see people grow and develop with their business as I have, and to feel that marvellous sense of achievement.

All my life I have been presented with opportunity, my advice to anyone is to grab it with both hands and never look back.

Enormous benefits with Rosemary Conley Diet and Fitness franchise

Fri, 31 Jul 2009 04:09:00 GMT

Information on women in Franchising at WhichFranchise.com

When Sarah Skelton started work as an optician’s receptionist, she never expected she would end up running her own business. But, by working and studying hard, Sarah became a dispensing optician and went on to run a Specsavers’ franchise. Sarah joined her local Rosemary Conley Diet and Fitness Club in an attempt to shed the excess weight she’d gained over the years and, along with gaining a brand new figure, Sarah acquired a brand new career, too.

After qualifying as an Exercise to Music teacher and running classes for her local instructor, in September 1998, aged 28, Sarah bought a Rosemary Conley Diet and Fitness Clubs franchise in Norwich and has never looked back. Whilst the first year was hard work, having to spend time getting known in the area and doing lots of marketing, within two years Sarah had managed to build up a good, profitable business, and she has continued to run it successfully for the past eight years.

Sarah has three children and has found that running her franchise suits family life. The flexibility of the working hours in the day works well with bringing up children and her husband, Andrew, is able to help in the evenings when Sarah is out taking her classes. Sarah genuinely loves her job and takes great pride in the help and support she gives to her members, several of whom have been with her for all of the eight years! She says: "The benefits of franchising with a well known name such as Rosemary Conley are enormous. You already have people who are aware of Rosemary, her formula of diet and exercise is excellent and you get great support from the team to help build your success."

Loving the energy of the Monkey Music franchise

Tue, 11 Aug 2009 04:09:00 GMT

Information on women in Franchising at WhichFranchise.com

Name: Jeni Eastlake

Location: Putney, Barnes and Fulham

Family: Husband and 3 children, Patrick, 10, Adam, 7 and baby Robyn.

What is your career background?

I was an Early Years and Key Stage 1 teacher and music co-ordinator in primary schools for almost 10 years. Although I enjoy playing the piano, I don’t have any formal music qualifications, (although I do have grade 5 on the trombone!). However, I’ve always been passionate about music and loved being in charge of the music at my school. Monkey Music was a great way for me combine music, teaching and family life, and I haven’t looked back!

How did you first hear about Monkey Music and the franchise opportunities available?

I read an article about franchised music classes, and thought it would be a good opportunity for someone of my experience to work flexibly around my child care needs. I was aware of Monkey Music in my area, so got in touch with Angie to see if there were any opportunities. When I observed the classes, I loved the energy and enthusiasm of the teachers – all the children and grownups were having a great time, and each class covered so many teaching points. I knew straight away that Monkey Music was the perfect thing for me!

How often do you work?

I currently teach three mornings a week and work in the office two or three afternoons and some evenings and weekends! (I have teachers taking some of my classes and a part-time administrator). I have had some periods when I have taught much less. This is one of the great things about a Monkey Music franchise: you can vary the amount you take on, (although it’s always hard to pass up on venue opportunities and my franchise does seem to have grown each term – which is great, but does make for more work!).

How does the job fit around your family life?

Really well most of the time. I am free from teaching during school holidays so I can spend lots of time with my children. I can usually fit some of my office work around naps and school times. My children love having all the props and instruments around, and are a great help when I’m learning any new songs!

Do you get support/training?

I have had a mentor to support me and answer any questions. She has always been at the end of the phone, and has been very willing to help and give advice when I’ve needed it. HQ have always been great if I’ve ever needed their help. On going training is available, which is really important to keep the classes fresh. My nearby franchisees are all really lovely and we occasionally meet up for a chat which I find really supportive.

How many classes do you run?

45 each week. This has grown considerably since I started, (I ran 15 classes each week when I first started).

How much do you earn (roughly)?

Annual turnover last year was about £150,000

What is the best thing about Monkey Music for you?

There are lots of things I love about Monkey! It’s great fun and so rewarding. The babies and children are gorgeous and I love welcoming new baby brothers and sisters from families who have been coming to my classes for as long as I’ve been doing them! I can vary the amount I work, (within reason!), still pick up the children from school myself most days, and usually be there for class assemblies and school productions.

Would you recommend this franchise opportunity to other Mums?

Absolutely! It is sometimes challenging fitting everything in, and I do always seem to be rushing around, but I wouldn’t have it any other way! It’s a fulfilling, rewarding career – I can’t think of anything else that would work around family life so well!

Petpals: Believe in a brand name you can trust

Wed, 19 Aug 2009 04:09:00 GMT

Information on women in Franchising at WhichFranchise.com

Jo Davies

Petpals Franchisee

Salisbury

What I did before taking on a franchise business

Before I established Petpals Salisbury in January 2009, I worked in the financial world as a manager for Abbey for more than seven years. Previously I had been a manager in the car hire industry for 10 years.

Why I chose franchising

I felt a good, strong brand name, such as Petpals, would be recognised by people, and I would benefit from the backing and support a franchise system offers. Another factor was that there are a lot of dog walkers in my area - the feedback I get from my clients is they want to know they have someone they can trust going into their homes.

How I raised the finance

We sold our beloved Mini Cooper!

The training and support

My fellow franchisees, such as Nick who used to run Petpals Crowthorne and particularly Jan at Petpals Winchester have been great. Tracey at Head Office has been a great support too. They have all been there if I have needed them. And, of course, my friends and family have been a huge help also.

Challenges

There are various challenges when you set up a new business. Getting a good name for myself in the area was crucial for me. And actually walking the dogs can be a challenge. I have a lot of big, disobedient guys and I have been pulled over a few times which initially knocked my confidence a little. Now I have learned how to make my life as easy as possible by using correct leads or getting friends to come and help.

Also delivering all 10,000 marketing leaflets door to door within the first three months was no mean feat!

Advice for someone thinking of buying a business

It’s a fantastic idea to go down the franchise route. I wouldn’t have done it without the Petpals franchise and having the brand name behind me. I think if you are really serious about making a good living/job out of it, you need to be taken seriously by your clients.

Plans for the future

I would like to employ staff by the end of my first year, to support the growth of the business. I also hope turnover reaches £20K turnover in my first year.

Driver Hire franchisee challenges male dominated industry

Fri, 11 Sep 2009 04:09:00 GMT

Information on women in Franchising at WhichFranchise.com

Being a woman in a male-dominated business environment has never fazed Sue Crilly one bit. And neither has the fact that she operates her Driver Hire franchise from Wisbech – a small market town in the depths of rural East Anglia.

“Male or female? I don’t think it matters,” says Sue. “In general terms, women have a more dogged and cautious approach to business. But in my view we can make every bit of much of a success of it as our male counterparts. As for the area, I’ve lived in East Anglia for many years and I know there is huge business potential here. Although we are not strategically well-placed for the transport sector we do have a thriving food processing industry and that’s what I’ve been concentrating on. You have to adapt your business to the demand that exists in your particular area.

Sue and daughter, Cat, are certainly proving that. They collect regular awards for sales turnover as they build the business and at a recent Driver Hire Annual Conference their efforts were recognised with a ‘Special Endeavour” award.

Sue does have some past history with Driver Hire having worked in the Peterborough franchise for 10 years. When the previous franchisee decided to move on, Sue and a colleague split the territory between them and the rest is history. “Being part of a network is another plus point,” says Sue. “I have a great relationship with all the other franchisees around me; we all help each other out. Deciding to buy the franchise was a big decision -- but I’ve certainly no regrets.”

Thriving on Franchising

Tue, 06 Oct 2009 04:09:00 GMT

Information on women in Franchising at WhichFranchise.com

Liz Wilson was able to return to her favourite part of the country, Dorset, and work in partnership with her husband thanks to a franchise with music and movement group, Jo Jingles.

Liz has been running Jo Jingles Poole for over seven years now ably assisted by her husband Russell and their respective backgrounds make them the perfect team. Before becoming involved with children’s music groups, Liz worked in the hotel and catering industry, primarily teaching front of house studies. She thrives on being with people and interfacing with customers, whereas her husband’s former position as a Director at Barclays Bank, has equipped him with enviable business and administrative skills.

It was the Poole location however, which first attracted mother of two, Liz, to Jo Jingles.

‘We lived in Poole when we were first married and always wanted to move back, but thought it was something we would do in later life,’ explains Liz. ‘But when my daughter was eleven and moving school anyway we happened to see an advertisement for Jo Jingles franchises in the local paper. I met with Gill Thomas and was really inspired by her enthusiasm and knew she was someone I’d be happy to work with.’

And so the family moved to Poole. Jo Jingles Poole was born and Liz and Russell Wilson haven’t looked back. Jo Jingles provides a fulfilling and lucrative career for both of them, but the real profit for Liz is seeing how children develop through attending her classes.

‘It is wonderful to see how they progress and react to the music,’ says Liz. ‘I get a real buzz when I see little ones starting to join in clapping and jiggling along in time to the songs.’

Liz also enjoys the movement part of the classes, since her own love of music was fostered primarily thorough ballet classes she attended from the ages of 5-15. Her family was inherently musical. Her father played the piano and Liz sang in choirs with both him and her brother.

Liz’s wish to encourage a love of music in her own children was the route through which she became involved with music and movement classes in the first place. When her son was two she took him along to an independent class in Surrey, where the family was living at the time, and the class teacher eventually asked Liz if she wanted to help out.

Leading music classes proved the ideal job for Liz, utilising her teaching and customer interfacing skills and fitting in well with family life, an important factor since her husband was then away a great deal which meant she could not rely on him to help out with childcare.

Inevitably, Liz’s own children have developed a love of music. Her daughter has achieved grade 4 flute and her son made grade 5 piano.

All the class teachers were introduced to Jo Jingles by bringing their children to the classes and these children are now seeing the benefits now they are at school - one is playing the piano and another taking the lead role in the School Play.

‘It is results like this that make it all so worthwhile,’ says Liz. ‘At my daughter’s school they taught basic notation, at the age of 4, through walking around a room and she still remembers it vividly. We have a basic notation module in Jo Jingles classes that takes a similar approach and I like to think we are planting such strong musical memories and roots in the children we are teaching today.’

Jo Jingles Poole is now so busy that Liz employs three other class teachers and the four of them lead 45 sessions a week, many in nurseries. They are also regularly asked to run special Jo Jingles birthday parties.

Liz’s business success was recognised when she won the 2008 Jo Jingles Franchisee of the Year Award.

Martin & Co owner rides the waves of franchising

Fri, 16 Oct 2009 04:09:00 GMT

Information on women in Franchising at WhichFranchise.com

"Sink or swim!" That’s the motto of franchise owner Susan Hume who opened the Martin & Co franchise in Dundee earlier this year.

Susan had always wanted to run her own business and the franchising opportunity with Martin & Co gave her just that. However the flexibility the franchise business model offered here was top of her list. Susan’s daughter is the British swimming champion for 100m and 200m freestyle and is training very hard for the 2012 Olympics. Running her own business, Susan can support her daughter with her early morning training sessions and accompany her on important competitions. The Commonwealth Games in India in 2010 is next!

With a strong customer service and sales background, Susan’s can do will do approach has already begun to pay off as within 6 weeks of opening her doors in June, she had over 40 properties on her books and her business continues to expand.

No stranger to property, Susan has worked extensively in lettings and has been a landlord herself, giving her a good understanding of landlord expectations. She insists that all her staff have the same high level of expertise.

“Selecting Martin & Co was the easy bit!” commented Susan (having been employed at Martin & Co Fife as a senior negotiator prior to becoming a franchise owner).

“I have seen Martin & Co grow as a brand and felt that buying into a proven franchise model would give me the additional specialist support I needed to run my own lettings business. Dundee has a large student population and significant regeneration has taken place. The lettings market and future in this area is certainly buoyant! she added.”

Belvoir franchise - an opportunity for success

Fri, 23 Oct 2009 04:09:00 GMT

Information on women in Franchising at WhichFranchise.com

“With Belvoir nothing’s hidden and you know exactly what you’re getting.”

Sharon Walker, owner of Belvoir Glasgow North is one of a growing number of people who have turned redundancy into an opportunity by tapping into the nation’s buoyant lettings industry and investing in a Belvoir Franchise.

Sharon was offered voluntary redundancy last year after 26 years of working in the business sector. “I decided to view it as an opportunity to do something completely new,” she says. “I wanted to set up my own business, but with no experience I began investigating franchises.

“I researched several - including coffee shops. However I have a young son, and soon realised that running a coffee shop would not work for me, because of the late hours and long shifts. Running a lettings agency suited my lifestyle perfectly.”

Sharon visited the team at Belvoir’s Central Office in Grantham and says: “I was very impressed with everyone I met. Afterwards I contacted other Belvoir Franchise Owners and asked them about their experiences. Their feedback was very encouraging and positive.”

Belvoir’s corporate image particularly impressed Sharon. “Belvoir’s branding is fantastic and I instantly felt comfortable with it,” she says. “Everything’s transparent, nothing’s hidden and you know exactly what you’re getting.”

Sharon attended a three-week intensive training course at Central Office, which was very informative. “I’d done my research beforehand but the course certainly highlighted how much more there was to learn,” she recalls. “I realised how much I needed the support of a franchise to run a successful lettings business.

“During the training each of us visited a landlord with a mentor. We had to assess the landlord’s property for rental and provide a valuation– the next morning we were given feedback about how we did and what we could improve. This on-the-job experience was invaluable. Three weeks is a long time to be away from home but I thoroughly enjoyed the course and learned so much.”

Sharon launched Belvoir Glasgow North in March 2009 and now employs staff to help her run the business. This gives her the flexibility to work for herself and enjoy being a mum to her young son. With ambitious future plans, Sharon says: “This is a big territory and in the long-term I’d like to take on another shop. It is all very exciting and I’m certain I’ve made the right decision.”

David Spackman, Head of Recruitment at Belvoir says: “Belvoir Franchise Owners come from all walks of life and previous experience is not necessary as full training and support is provided.

“We have several successful Franchise Owners whose situation mirrors Sharon’s. Redundancy can be a shock but as Sharon discovered it can also be a perfect time to do something completely new. There is no doubt that running a Belvoir Franchise involves a great deal of commitment and effort, but it can also provide the opportunity and flexibility to improve the quality of your personal and family life.

“Belvoir is highly regarded within the lettings and franchise industry and this is reflected by the appointment of Mike Goddard, the CEO and founder of Belvoir as Chairman of the British Franchise Association. Our research shows that there is a shortage of specialist lettings agents in Scotland and we are actively recruiting here. I would encourage anyone who is interested to get in touch with me and find out more.”

bfa reports a rise in women setting up franchises

Tue, 27 Oct 2009 04:09:00 GMT

Information on women in Franchising at WhichFranchise.com

The British Franchise Association (bfa) is today encouraged by results from a recent survey* proving that more women than ever, now own and operate their own businesses through franchising. With 835 franchise brands in the UK today employing over 467,000 people with an £11.4 billion turnover and a 90 per cent success rate; franchising has proven to be a growing and secure industry.

In the late 1990s just 20 per cent of total franchise owners in the UK were women, whereas today that figure stands at 27 per cent, with 34 per cent of all new franchise owners being women. When combined with statistics that the total number of franchise outlets has risen during that time from 21,500 to 34,600, this rise shows a significant increase.

However, Tom Endean, marketing manager at the bfa believes that there is still room for improvement; particularly in educating both men and women on the feasibility of franchising as well as encouraging more women to consider franchising as a viable, financially stable business option.

“There are many women looking to return to work after maternity leave or having taken time-off to raise children. Juggling work commitments with family at home can be difficult; the opportunity to work from home within the constraints of their current job is often more limited, or in some cases, non-existent, despite many improvements with technology. The option of starting a business gets around this issue, but the risk involved is high; with so many new businesses never getting off the ground.

“Time and again, franchising has greatly out-performed other start-up businesses. Its formula of a locally owned and run enterprise, driven by a small business owner, with branding, economies of scale and support from wider network, gives the consumer the best of both worlds and the business, a far better chance of success.

“Buying into a system that has already gone through many of the early hurdles of starting up a business and is proven to work, means the franchise model provides a more secure and stable platform for starting your own business.”

The bfa is keen to reiterate that franchising still requires hard work, investment and dedication. However, taking the franchise route offers a proven business model, with a protected brand, marketing advice, sales advice, and specific training to run the business.

The bfa has seen many of its members become very successful brands, with many of these being successful female franchisees. This was highlighted at the end of 2008 when the bfa’s Franchisee of the Year Award went to Angie Baynes; a very successful franchisee of Venture UK.

Survey*

This is the 25^th annual survey commissioned by the British Franchise Association (bfa), sponsored by NatWest and conducted by independent research consultancy BDRC. The survey is available from the bfa, telephone 01865 379892 or visit the website www.thebfa.org

From redundancy to high life with NIC franchise

Wed, 09 Dec 2009 04:09:00 GMT

Information on women in Franchising at WhichFranchise.com

Since launching my NIC franchise in February 2006 my lifestyle has definitely improved,” says Charlotte Eccleston who, despite the recession, is aiming to achieve a turnover of half a million pounds by the end of 2009. “My silent partner Kerry Miller has now come onboard full time so together we are looking to double our current turnover of £250,000 by the end of this year.

“I’ve bought a buy-to-let flat that I am currently renting out and I go on five star holidays. In addition to the financial benefits my lifestyle has improved in that I don’t work as hard as I used to and my hours are flexible.”

Charlotte first began looking into franchising when she was made redundant from her previous job. She recalls: “I worked in sales for TNT and when I was let go I took a few months out to decide what I wanted to do. I began to look at commercial cleaning franchises, a sector that stood out for me because there’s no limit to your potential earnings and the service is essential.

“During my research I saw an advert for NIC and I got in contact with head office. I met with senior members of NIC and was impressed with the back-up and support they provide to franchise owners, which is important because I had no previous experience of running my

own business.”

NIC is a commercial cleaning business that offers a management franchise opportunity. As

part of the franchise package franchise owners are provided with comprehensive training and ongoing support. “In addition to the induction training I received at NIC head office I have also had ongoing training,” Charlotte reports.

“Furthermore the support NIC has provided has been excellent. I have a good relationship with head office and they assist me in producing contracts and putting quotes and proposals together. They also sort out my staff wages and collect payments, which allows me the time to concentrate on building up my business.

However I do feel that although NIC are in the background offering support, they will also leave you on your own to run your business.

“I really enjoy running my franchise, especially being my own boss and the independence that brings. I am a much more relaxed person now and I hope that I never have to go back to working for someone else. I want to keep developing my business to a point where I can sell half of it.”

Facing a new challenge with Maid2Clean franchise

Fri, 22 Jan 2010 04:09:00 GMT

Information on women in Franchising at WhichFranchise.com

After successfully running our own businesses for the last fifteen years, we decided the time was right to face a new challenge.

Not wanting to put all our eggs in one basket we decided on a totally new venture - Maid2Clean franchise.

We can definitely say that our first year of running Maid2Clean Cambridge has been a real challenge and test for us but has also been rewarding in many ways. Being part of the Maid2Clean family has helped us develop new skills and opportunities. We are going from strength-to-strength and are beginning to reap the rewards.

Maid2Clean franchise manages work-life balance

Fri, 22 Jan 2010 04:09:00 GMT

Information on women in Franchising at WhichFranchise.com

Watching the growth of the Maid2Clean franchise network from her position as a nurse was the trigger that encouraged Linda Kenyon to make the transition to Maid2Clean franchise owner. She always had a desire to build a successful business of her own. She purchased the North Manchester Territory and has made such a success of her business that she acquired the Wakefield Territory also.

"It was the best thing I ever did" says Linda. "I was impressed with the simplicity and solidity of the system."

Maid2Clean is an introductory agency that helps cleaners looking for work hook up with householders looking for cleaners. "Maid2Clean is a turnkey operation," continues Linda. "All you need is a good attitude and ability to follow the proven system alongside a car, home office, PC and telephone.

The Maid2Clean business model involves no cleaning by the Franchise Owner and a number of core services to clients:

a) Advertising for cleaners

b) Interviewing cleaners

c) Vetting cleaners in their own home

d) Placement of cleaner with client

e) Insuring cleaners against damage caused

f) Replacing cleaners if they are sick, unsatisfactory or go on holiday.

Householders can choose from regular weekly cleans to one off blitz cleans. have a wide variety of domestic cleaning services to choose from including one-off blitz cleans, laundry help, linen changing, house minding, standard house cleans, waiting in for deliveries.

"I am really excited about being in control of my future with Maid2Clean. I will develop the business to the point where I have a willable asset in addition to a considerable residual income, while working fewer hours a week than I did as a Nurse.

This means I will be able to see more of my granddaughter and time to visit my holiday home abroad.

No Letting Go franchise first choice for self-employment

Thu, 28 Jan 2010 04:09:00 GMT

Information on women in Franchising at WhichFranchise.com

Working with the Metropolitan Police as a radio engineer in a male dominated environment was always going to be a challenge for a woman, but the life skills Lorraine Verlander picked up during her 20 year stint as an engineer and later a manager, have proved invaluable in running her own No Letting Go inventory management business.

A gritty determination to succeed, a willingness to learn and adapt to changes in environment, coupled with proven communication skills all stood Lorraine in good stead when she made the decision to go it alone last year as a No Letting Go franchisee.

Having risen to a managerial position supervising two teams, Lorraine recognised the limited career progression opportunities in her current role, and felt the time was right for her to consider running her own show.

Franchising had always been Lorraine’s first choice as a means to start her own business but she was keen to identify a franchise which would offer a chance to operate in a totally different culture from the civil service environment that she had been used to. Lorraine was also keen to establish her business in a market sector which presented significant long term growth opportunities.

It was a former Metropolitan Police work colleague who first introduced Lorraine to the No Letting Go concept. Chris Holmes was one of the founder franchisees of the now 18 strong No Letting Go franchise network, which has undergone a massive 130% growth in the last 12 months. Chris’s enthusiasm for the business combined with the natural fit of Lorraine’s skills / experience together with the impressive training and support on offer from head office made the decision making easy for the former engineer. Following a couple of weeks shadowing a fellow franchise owner and an inventory clerk, Lorraine’s mind was made up and she signed up to take on the Bexley / Bromley territory on 18th June 2009 – a decision which she now claims is the best move she ever made!

The decision to set up a business via the franchise route has been ratified many times for Lorraine. “You really do get the best of both worlds, the chance to run your own show but with the support and backing of a well established organisation,” says Lorraine.

And in terms of quality of life the changes have been equally gratifying “I used to spend three hours of my working day travelling, now I work from a home office, get to see my son off to school on a daily basis and enjoy a far great degree of flexibility in my working life. I had calculated that I might earn back my franchise fee in 11 months but in six months, I’ve already clawed back my investment and am earning a living out of the business consistent with my previous earnings – but with the added benefit of a greatly improved quality of life.

Of equal importance to me is the fact that I now own a prosperous business which is poised to enjoy further growth in the years to come – so I have not only matched my original investment – my investment is continuing to grow – something which is very difficult to achieve in the current economic climate!”

Monkey Music franchise brings music into the lives of children

Thu, 28 Jan 2010 04:09:00 GMT

Information on women in Franchising at WhichFranchise.com

It’s the National Year of Music and, for hundreds of thousands of young families across Britain Monkey Music has become a rite of passage, introducing pre school aged children and their parents to the joys and benefits of music.

Since its creation in 1992, Monkey Music’s weekly classes have become synonymous with the delivery of high quality musical education. And, as one Britain’s most lauded franchise companies, it has also nurtured the business and teaching careers of hundreds of women across the country.

The driving force behind Monkey Music is founder, managing director and mother of five, Angie Coates. Angie started out her professional life as a concert oboist but it was her experience of teaching music at a leading London prep school that convinced her of the importance of music in children’s lives. She had a gift for teaching and quickly understood the crucial role that regular music sessions played in the nurturing a child’s innate musicality and wider educational development.

Monkey Music is Born

1992. With the birth of her first child, Millie, Angie looked around for music sessions she could share with her daughter. She wanted Millie to benefit from music in the way her pupils at school were doing. But there was nothing.

And so Monkey Music was born.

Angie resigned from her job as Head of Music and concentrated on finding parents of very young babies who would become the first guinea pigs participating in the first ‘official’ Monkey Music classes, which were to be aimed equally at parents and very young children. The idea was an overnight success and the demand for Monkey Music grew at such a rate that Angie franchised the company in 1998.

Today, over 10,000 babies and young children visit Monkey Music every week and Angie’s pioneering curriculum and teaching style have become the template and standard for pre school music education across the UK.

A Modern Business

Whilst Angie’s distinctive and creative musical personality is certainly intrinsic to the success of Monkey Music, it is her sharp commercial and business sense that has driven the growth of the business. There are now 51 Monkey Music franchises around the country and over 130 teachers delivering the progressive Monkey Music curricula.

It is no coincidence that Monkey Music attracts mainly women to its team. Many of these women have joined Monkey Music seeking flexible working hours, returning to work after the birth of their first child. For many of the franchise business owners, Monkey Music is the perfect answer in their desire for a change of career. They are all motivated by the exceptional high standards and musical integrity behind the company and also the fact that they earn an excellent return on their own time and any personal financial investment.

Monkey Music’s top franchisees turn over in excess of 100K with a net profit of 50%. The Company’s network turnover has doubled over the last four years to circa 2 million and Monkey Music has record numbers of potential franchisees for 2010.

In 2005 the success of the Monkey Music franchise was recognised by the British Franchise Association in awarding Monkey Music ‘Brand Builder Of The Year’ in the prestigious British Franchise Awards. In 2008 Monkey Music won Best Toddler Development class in the What’s On For Little Ones Awards. And during 2009, Monkey Music was invited to make its debut at the Edinburgh Fringe appealing to the very youngest festival goers.

Continuous Development

Angie Coates continues to play a major part in the running of the company and developing the curriculum. Following the birth of her fifth daughter in 2006 she wrote a brand new stage of the curricula called ‘Rock n Roll’ which is aimed at families with newborn babies. This was written in response to demand from the current generation of parents who, more acutely aware of the benefits of early exposure to music, now want to come to classes straight after their baby is born!

Angie says that all her own 5 children have been a constant source of inspiration shining through Monkey Music in different ways. Her oldest daughter, who was the first ‘Monkey’ at Monkey Music, is now 16 and an accomplished musician who has recently been offered a 100% music scholarship to one of the country’s leading music schools. Her other sources of inspiration come from children everywhere and their own fascinating innate responses to all the different music they hear in the world around them.

The Future

Angie revels in her work and it fits around her life. And its also the case for her team - the women involved with Monkey Music organise their own working hours and are rewarded for their determination, combining a rewarding career with the every day demands of family life.

So, quite apart from bringing music into the lives of 100,000s children, Angie Coates and Monkey Music’s hard working team of creative women are now building a famous brand while enjoying a wonderful working life.

Women are ideal for franchising with Clive's Easylearn Pop Music Schools

Fri, 19 Feb 2010 04:09:00 GMT

Information on women in Franchising at WhichFranchise.com

Sophie Brooks
Operations Director
Clive’s Easylearn Pop Music Schools

“Although we welcome franchisees from both genders, we’ve increasingly found that women fit wonderfully well into our pop music schools franchise network. They possess the softer skills needed to win the confidence and trust of both children and their parents, and are generally great at developing relationships within the local community. We’ve also found that women often have tremendous organisational skills, and are very customer-orientated. Our female franchisees tell us that they enjoy the pleasant, friendly and creative nature of our franchise and it’s flexible part-time hours, which fit in well with existing family commitments, and provide a very significant second income for the household.”

Joining PACE Partners franchise offers end to corporate politics

Fri, 30 Apr 2010 04:09:00 GMT

Information on women in Franchising at WhichFranchise.com

Alison chose to invest in the PACE Partners International franchise in 2009 and began trading as a PACE Licensed Associate Partner in January 2010. She has proved that if you follow the system, the PACE brand will enable you to attract and be billing your own clients within 6 months.

Alison is passionate about commercially-driven organisation development. She has been instrumental in leading innovative global learning and development strategies in previous roles.

She spent 10 years at United Distillers & Vintners in the Central Training Department, involved in leading edge learning and development initiatives across the UK manufacturing division. She left after having her second child, taking a two year break.

Alison decided to return to the corporate world, establishing the learning and development at Wood Mackenzie. She saw the organisation grow from 150 to over 500 people and expand globally. Alison had employed the services of PACE and seen the power of PACE thinking helping this growth. It was an exciting place to be, but after 7 years, the role was becoming more specialized, with increasing travel commitments. With her family her priority, she took another break to spend time with her children, become an NLP Practitioner and manage a property development project.

Why Alison chose PACE

Over the years Alison has focused on ensuring she balances her work and family life. The corporate world was becoming less appealing, but she missed the challenge of her previous roles. Alison heard about the Associate Partner opportunity and knowing the people and power of the system felt it ticked all the boxes. She invested towards the end of 2009 becoming one of the three pilot Associate Partners and securing her local area, Edinburgh.

“I have worked with John for many years and we have a similar attitude to business development. PACE is made up of a group of incredible people; experienced, intelligent, driven and motivated with unquestionable integrity. I am delighted and proud to now be part of this powerful network,” commented Alison.

A better lifestyle

Alison has lived in the suburbs of Edinburgh with her husband and two daughters for 7 years. They love the city enjoying the arts, culture and walking in the surrounding hills. Family life is very important to Alison. As a PACE Associate she can work from her home office which has allowed a new addition to the family, Murphy, a Border Terrier puppy.

“Being a PACE Associate allows a lifestyle of contrast. I can ensure I have quality time with my family whilst also continuing to work developing businesses, combining my skills with the proven PACE system,” commented Alison.

Alison’s advice to new franchisees

When asked what she would say to someone looking to join PACE Alison replied: “They are great people and PACE is a very powerful brand. I never feel alone, it’s a comprehensive package, almost like being part of a company!”

From Wallstreet Journal to Go Kart Party franchise

Thu, 06 May 2010 04:09:00 GMT

Information on women in Franchising at WhichFranchise.com

Lynne Lamont,

Go-Kart Party Franchisee

Crawly

Previous life

Lynne worked in the marketing and advertising sector for the Wallstreet Journal before making the decision to look for a business opportunity. Initially, after some life changing personal experiences she decided to do something new and different which led her to a London exhibition. “I met Go-Kart Party at an exhibition called One Life Live It. I loved the business concept and I thought this would work and it certainly does,” says Lynne.

What she thinks about her Go-Kart Party Franchise

“I am a big kid at heart and I love the idea of seeing children having fun and their faces light up. Being in charge of my own company, I can choose the hours I want to work - parties at the weekend and calls in the week. I can plan my time off,” explains Lynne.

Lynne's secret to success

With her background in marketing, Lynne really understands how to deliver what the customer wants! She says her secrets to success are in offering a personalised, tailored party every time. “It is a fantastic business and it has changed my life completely. I still advertise but so much of my business is referrals. I give an individual service and that is why I have a long waiting list of children wanting parties. I have some kids waiting 5 weeks for a birthday party!”

What Gerry Ussher, Director of Go Kart Party says:

“Lynne is a determined lady and certainly understands how to give kids a party to remember. Her hard work and determination has got her to where she is today and we are delighted to have her onboard as part of our ever growing franchise network,” says Gerry.

Helping build dreams with Razzamataz franchise

Thu, 10 Jun 2010 04:09:00 GMT

Information on women in Franchising at WhichFranchise.com

Franchisee: Charlotte Dixon
Franchise: Razzamataz
Territory: Penrith and Whitehaven

Her first international performance was with Lionel Ritchie in Amsterdam, she’s performed with top stars including Shirley Bassey and she was part of the team who danced in Beijing in 2000 for the 2008 Olympic bid – now Charlotte Dixon is the Principal and Dance Teacher at Whitehaven & Penrith's Razzamataz Theatre Schools helping local young people work towards their performance dreams.

Charlotte, 28 began dancing at the Robinson Read School of Dance in Lancaster. She went on to train at Performers College under the direction of Brian Rogers and Susan Stephens.

This further education college for performing arts gave Charlotte the solid foundation for musical Theatre and Commercial style teaching.

“It was while I was part of the production cast at Butlins that I discovered how much I liked teaching. My boss’s daughter’s dance teacher was on maternity leave and they asked it I could take the class. I really enjoyed it. A short while later I met Denise Hutton-Gosney who was looking for teachers for Razzamataz and the rest is history. I started teaching dance and drama for Razzamataz in 2005 and taught at the Carlisle, Whitehaven & Dumfries schools. In 2006 I bought the Penrith Franchise and in 2007 I bought the Whitehaven School as well. I still teach at the Dumfries School and the Durham School since it launched in April 2008.

“As the schools require me to teach in the evenings I am free during the day to concentrate on the administration side of the Franchise including keeping up with the latest advertising, local events and opportunities for the students at the school, it fits in with my lifestyle as I'm not a morning person!!

“Razzamataz has been an amazing opportunity for me and I feel very fortunate to enjoy going to work every day and not stuck in a job I hate. Dancing and performing is a short-term career and you can't do it forever, now I love seeing the students progress and grow in confidence each term

“There are plenty of opportunities for the students to perform. Each year the students produce a Summer Performance and sometimes perform at our annual Christmas Awards. In November this year some of the Whitehaven and Penrith Students will be performing at Her Majesty's Theatre in London where I performed during my time at Performers College, this will be a once in a lifetime opportunity for the students and an unforgettable experience.

“I have been fortunate to have worked with many celebrities such as Martine McCutcheon, Ross Kemp, Linda Lusardi and Cheryl Baker during my time performing as a dancer, singer and actor, and more recently I’ve choreographed and produced professional shows incorporating many different styles. I want to give the students at Razzamataz the opportunity to enjoy performing like I did.”

Freedom for Snack in the Box franchisee

Wed, 11 Aug 2010 04:09:00 GMT

Information on women in Franchising at WhichFranchise.com

“This business is ideal for women – I'm surprised there aren't more of us doing it” - Debbie Shrimpton

Working in a call centre for two years had left Cleveland based Debbie Shrimpton frustrated and fed up at being tied to long and rigid hours. Before that she'd been a line-manager at a KP factory where, despite the stringent working conditions, she got a valuable insight into the snack food industry. She says: “I've gone from manufacturing snacks to selling snacks for a living, and I know which one I prefer! Snack-in-the-box is a people business, and that was what attracted me to the franchise in the first place. I love meeting my customers, spending time chatting with them and knowing they appreciate seeing me every week. After all, I am bringing them something they want – those snacks and little treats that keep their employees happy!”

Snack-in-the-box franchisees deliver top branded confectionary and savoury snacks directly to the workplace. Debbie Shrimpton bought a 'Self Service Box' franchise, which relies on its customers leaving money in the box in exchange for the snacks they take away.

“This is such a simple idea,” says Debbie. “It's a cash business, and the franchise model is so easy to understand. Everyone needs a little refuelling during their working day, and we make sure there's always something there. All we ask in return is they leave the correct amount of money in the box. That's the honesty box policy, and it works. And let's face it, Mars wouldn't put their name to something that doesn't work either!”

Franchising since 1996, Snack-in-the-box now has more than 100 franchisees serving over 16,000 customers each week. Its franchise network boasts a number of women franchisees including, among others, twin sisters, and a mother and daughter team.

Interestingly, when Debbie first took on her franchise, she turned to a female family member to help her to run the business. “Initially I went into partnership with my sister-in-law,” she says. “She could only work part-time and wanted to fit something in between looking after her two young children. We were able to run a full-time business by working three days a week each – and made £30,000 a year between us. Once my sister-in-law's children had grown up, she decided to go back into full-time employment, and by then I was ready to take on the business by myself. Snack-in-the-box was perfect for someone in her situation, as it gave her the flexibility she needed to look after her family, and the opportunity to have a share in her own business.”

She adds: “Now that I'm a grandmother, it's great to be able to help look after my granddaughter wherever and whenever I'm needed. Unlike most employees, I don't need to ask for a day off. Nor do I need to fill in forms just to take some time to help out my daughter. In fact, I don't need to justify my family commitments to anyone. Snack-in-the-box is a great business for those that have a life outside of work, and who genuinely enjoy getting out and meeting people. This franchise is ideal for women. I'm surprised there aren't more of us doing it.”

Barking Mad franchise giving confidence to franchisees

Fri, 27 Aug 2010 04:09:00 GMT

Information on women in Franchising at WhichFranchise.com

Franchisees: Jen and Carolyn

It was the summer of 2007 and I had had a particularly bad day at the office (I had been working as an administrator for the NHS for the past 22 years). I was sitting on my patio listening to Chris Evans’ Drive Time radio programme, when he had a lady on his business section called Mary who ran a Barking Mad franchise. Mary explained what the job entailed and I was struck by the thought that this was my perfect job. I loved dogs, having two of my own, and could chat to anyone as long as they were prepared to listen to me about my lovely four legged friends. After hearing Mary on the radio I immediately went to my PC, found the Barking Mad web site and emailed them to request a franchise pack. I went to work the next day with a spring in my step, thinking that this could be the way out of the rat race and not really believing that there was a job that was so interesting and perfect for me. The franchise pack arrived and I immediately rang Lee at Head Office to find out more and arrange to meet her in Lancashire.

The meeting happened early October 2007 and I was smitten, this really sounded the perfect job for me, my husband came along to the initial meeting and has been supporting me ever since. I did my training in January 2008, along with three other trainees. The training was very thorough, covering all aspects of the business. I was very confident that I could cope with the day to day running of my business, together with the accounts and diary management. The only reserve I had was marketing, I was not the most confident person in the world and the idea of visiting vets, groomers etc terrified me. On the last day of training we were taken to a small village in Lancashire where all four trainees descended on the high street and went off in different directions to tell people about Barking Mad. I very tentatively went into a chemist where they were very friendly, I then went to a gallery and framing shop and again they were lovely and asked me more questions about Barking Mad, and this response went on and on, marketing was not as bad as I thought.

I started my business on the Monday after training. Head Office had arranged a press release and all the local advertising for host families. I went home with a huge box of stationery, marketing brochures and fliers. While on the training Barking Mad signage had been added to my car so I was all ready to get noticed. I spent a couple of days with my neighbouring franchisee Linda, who kindly took me around to meet new customers and hosts. Head Office are very supporting as are the other Barking Mad franchisees, if you have a query or just want to run something past someone, they are just there.

The hosts started to come on board and then the customers and I was going around with a smile on my face. I set myself targets to get all the marketing done and the more I did the more confident I became. Every three months we attend an area meeting where you get to meet your colleagues and discuss new initiatives and pool all our successes. In the spring we have our annual conference, which is a really great affair and such a lot of fun.

I had been trading for about 16 months when the Plymouth franchisee told me she was thinking of selling (I had initially bought a franchise slightly away from where I lived but didn’t mind the travelling involved). I really wanted to buy this other franchise, but knew even in the early days it would be impossible for just me to run two franchises. My sister Carolyn had been starting to get a bit fed up with her job and she had the chance to take voluntary redundancy. The timing of this was perfect, so we purchased the Plymouth franchise and have now been working together for 18 months. We support each other and work really well together covering both areas. We have seen both areas grow amazingly over the last twelve months and may possibly have to look to employ someone within the next couple of years.

Once your customer base is established and you are supplying them with a good service they start to recommend Barking Mad to their family and friends and some even choose to become hosts as well as customers. There is nothing better than getting a new customer from a recommendation.

When I first started Barking Mad, people would ask me what I did for a living I used to mumble that I worked for myself. Now when I am asked I say very proudly that I run a business with my sister. Barking Mad has given me not just the perfect job, it has also given me so much extra confidence to tackle most things in life.

Dream realised with Barrett & Coe franchise

Tue, 19 Apr 2011 04:09:00 GMT

Information on women in Franchising at WhichFranchise.com

Name: Julia Taylor

Location: Worthing

Franchise: Barrett & Coe – Fantastic Photography

Why did you choose franchising?

The thought of becoming a full time photographer seemed completely out of reach and I started to wonder if I had made the right decision, or if it was even possible to set up my own business with no previous experience. Then I found out about Barrett & Coe. It was very clear to see that their training programmes were extremely comprehensive and effective, and their support mechanisms were well established. I decided that I wanted to set up my own studio and opted to progress along the fast track franchise route. This option provided me with a comprehensive programme of photography training and business support and gave me all the knowledge and skills I needed in order to be up and running with my own studio in a matter of months.

What did you do before taking up a franchise?

I had worked in a corporate environment in the financial services industry for 20 years. I had always been a keen amateur photographer and was always the one taking photos during social events with friends and family. Ready for a change in career, I started researching the various courses on offer and talking to colleges and training establishments.

How did you raise the finance?

All sorts of ways, but you have to make sure you have enough to keep you going in the first few months you are starting, as there are obviously some outlays first before you start taking money!

What training and support did you receive initially and ongoing?

Following the initial photography training with Andrew Coe and other specialists, I had regular meetings with Elaine Sheppard, the Studio Development Manager, who helped me choose the studio location, including layout and design, including equipment requirements. Since then there has been regular contact to help ensure my business was running effectively, along with regular visits to the studio which included observations and feedback on viewing processes. We are also helped with ongoing marketing initiatives and helped with identifying those local to us. We constantly review figures to help manage my targets and I was also lucky enough to receive a Barrett & Coe scholarship with David MacDonald who has helped transform my photography.

What challenges have you faced?

I will not say it was an easy 6 months, as there was a lot of work involved in setting up the business, alongside all the photography training. However, I’ve never been shy of hard work, and did not begrudge the long hours I was working (after all, I was working for myself now) and I knew I would be the one to benefit from it in the end.... I also loved the challenge that I was giving myself. The support provided by Barrett and Coe was superb, with someone to help me along every step of the way.

Has becoming a franchisee changed your life, if so how?

The studio has now been up and running for 17 months and is progressing well. My diary is kept busy. There is never a quiet time, be it a shoot, a viewing, editing, admin, marketing, accounts etc, all such varied elements... I can honestly say that I absolutely love my job, and will never go back to the life I had before. I meet great people every day and its tremendous buzz to see them walk away so happy with the results of my work.

What advice would you give to someone thinking of buying their first franchise?

Make sure it’s the right one for you and be prepared to change your lifestyle for a while until things get established. Take advantage of the support given, and the knowledge of the best business practice, for whatever franchise you choose. Be prepared to work very hard!

What are your plans for the future?

Barrett & Coe have lots of actions and ideas to progress the business. I am inspired to move my marketing strategy to the next level. The sky’s the limit!

Would you do it again?

Definitely!

Enjoying the flexibility of the Creation station franchise

Tue, 17 May 2011 04:09:00 GMT

Information on women in Franchising at WhichFranchise.com

Franchisee: Anna

Franchise: The Creation Station

Territory: Southwell, Nottingham city, and West Bridgford

I first started my franchise in September 2008. I run the North Nottinghamshire franchise and this covers a wide territory, which allows me a great scope to establish partnership links. I run pre-school sessions in the following areas at the moment, Southwell, Nottingham city, and West Bridgford. Along with the sessions I also run Arty parties all over Nottingham.

When I first saw the business advertisement in the Buzz magazine for franchisees to run the Creation Station, I thought it was a great idea, but I was a bit worried as although I am creative, I am not artistic. I soon learned that children are the artistic ones and the ones with all the ideas!

I had always liked the idea of working for myself but would never have had the courage to actually go it alone. I knew the Franchise opportunity was a great way for me to do this, but also receive support if I needed it.

I was taking a year break from my job as I had taken voluntary redundancy but knew that I could not go back into a 9-5 job. Although I actually loved what I was doing. I was a teacher of adults with learning difficulties at a college, but there was so much paperwork and administration involved, lesson planning and record keeping, so I often ended up working late into the evenings. I was a single mother of 2 children and it was difficult having to commit to such a role. I knew I needed a job that fit around me and my children and not something which I had to fit around.

I decided to call Sarah Cressall the Director and she invited me to a Discovery morning in Leicester. As soon as I saw what was happening, I felt absolutely certain that taking on the Franchise was for me. I knew I would love working with the children, the parents and the carers and what is more I would still be able to use all the skills I had gained from my teaching experience. The fact that the sessions focussed not just on the artistic capabilities of the children, but also the educational and social needs of the children too was a big factor. I loved the idea that the children were learning, discovering and exploring as well as having fun too and spending some special quality time with their parent/carer.

In this 3rd year of my business I feel that now my reputation as a great party entertainer in and around Nottinghamshire has developed successfully and parents/carers are much more aware of the Creation Station brand and what we are all about.

I am still so honoured to be a Creation Station Franchisee. I still firmly believe in what the Creation Station offers to children, parents and carers and families and I am extremely proud to be part of an exciting, and ever-growing team of Women Franchisees!

Embarking on new life with Riverford Organic franchise

Wed, 22 Jun 2011 04:09:00 GMT

Information on women in Franchising at WhichFranchise.com

When Mary Watson and Husband Chris decided to embark on a new life in business together, they had no idea it would coincide with so many other life-changing events. Four years later Mary explains how they managed, and why they’re now reaping the rewards: as contented parents, new homeowners and veg box profiteers. Interview by Matt Pigott.

Says Mary: It’s been just over four years since we made our first delivery – that was back in May 2007. My husband Chris and I had been mulling over the idea to set up, or buy, our own business for years. Chris worked long hours in advertising, with an early commute, and I worked in admissions at the University of Warwick. We’d reached the point where we realised we both wanted a change. At first we considered starting our own business from scratch, but soon came to the conclusion that might be a little overambitious because we’d had no experience doing anything like that before.

Before we became franchisees, we were actually customers of the Riverford Organic veg box scheme in Leamington, where we were living at the time. Almost by chance, Chris was browsing through the Riverford website when he read that they were opening a new farm in North Yorkshire, and that the Sheffield territory – where I’m from – was available.

First steps

I was 5 months pregnant and had already left work, and Chris and I had also been discussing ways we could move back to Sheffield so that we could be closer to family. It seemed like the right time for us to look into the franchise opportunity, before it went to somebody else, and so we went to the franchise expo in Birmingham, where we met some of the existing Riverford franchisees. Next, we made a trip down to Riverford’s main farm in Devon. We were so excited after that we went ahead and lodged our formal application to buy the Sheffield area straightaway. When we were in the process of submitting our business plans everything became rather hectic: I went into labour two months before my due date, and our son Zachary was born on December 8th 2006 – seven weeks premature. We still managed to get everything in on time and found out our application had been successful just before Christmas, at the same time we were getting ready to bring Zach home from hospital. April 2007 was scheduled for the launch of our business so the next few months were a blur of selling our house, Chris working his notice and getting to grips with being new parents! When we first moved back to Sheffield we went to live with my parents in their spare room for six months while we waited for our house purchase to go through. It actually worked out pretty well having live-in babysitters at that time!

Time together

Everything has obviously settled down now, and we’re into a steady routine. I love being a mum while also working on the business part time. For Chris, the biggest benefit is that he’s been able to spend more time with Zach. Before Riverford, Chris would have been out of the house for 13 hours a day in his job as an Account Director for an ad agency, and he’d have seen very little of him Monday to Friday. Now, even though Chris starts work very early – at around 5.30am – he’s usually home by early afternoon. My commute is to the office at the end of the garden – even shorter than the school run!

Show business

In summer, we do a lot of local shows, which is one of the best ways to get new customers. Almost all of the shows are on weekends, meaning you have to be prepared to work Saturdays and Sundays. But it’s vital for us to keep on meeting potential new customers to grow the business, and shows are great for this as customers can see our fantastic produce and chat with us about which box will suit them best. Of course, you have to remember to stay focused on your existing customers too, particularly around holiday periods when a lot of people go away and put their orders on hold. The main thing is to ensure you regularly stay in touch with all of your customers in some way as it makes them feel valued and also reminds them that we’re here.

One of the things we’ve learnt over the last few years is that customer retention is just as important as acquisition, because it’s harder to acquire new customers than satisfy the ones you already have. So we, and the farm, work extremely hard to keep our existing customers happy.

Well supported

The availability of our virgin territory coincided with the opening of Home Farm. We’ve had a lot of support from Riverford head office from day one. They’ve helped us with everything from setting up the business to our initial launch campaign, which included PR and leafleting. In our first delivery week we had just 60 deliveries to make. We’ve now got 500+ per week, with plans for further expansion.

Loyalty matters

We did really well in our first couple of years, and had excellent growth. Now we’re going through a period of slower growth. But I’m pleased to say we have a really solid and loyal customer base. There are a lot of customers we’ve got to know quite well, which is one of the best things about being a Riverford franchisee – the fantastic people you meet. Whether it’s at their home on the doorstep, by phone, email or at shows, it’s nice to talk or spend a little time with the people who make your business work. When we’re doing shows, customers we’ve never met face-to-face often come up and introduce themselves, which is lovely. You really feel like you’re a part of the community, and people notice when you go the extra mile.

Last Christmas, when we had more than a foot of snow, Chris, the drivers and even some members of my family worked relentlessly to make sure that our customers got their deliveries on time. The conditions were perilous, but Chris and the boys got all of the veg boxes out. We had so much positive feedback as a result of their efforts. People felt extremely valued, and delighted that their Christmas dinners weren’t missing any vital ingredients!

From passion to profit

Riverford started out as a small family business, and it’s refreshing that they’ve managed to maintain that family feel. Guy Watson, the founder, is really approachable. Ultimately, his passion is organic farming, and everything stems from there. I think the family business ethos flows right through the business – from the farm to the franchisees, to the customers. It’s what makes it special.

From a purely business perspective, the staff members at head office are fantastic too. They take up a lot of the slack for us; so if we can’t speak to a customer for any reason, somebody at the Farm will handle the call and they provide holiday cover for our emails and phone calls. In addition, the website and all of the marketing materials are produced and managed centrally, which frees me and Chris up to get on with the business of delivering the produce and developing our business locally.

I suppose what I’m saying is that you never feel alone as a Riverford franchisee; you always feel that you’re part of something bigger.

Ex-police officer has essential assets for Mail Boxes Etc. franchise

Thu, 21 Jul 2011 04:09:00 GMT

Information on women in Franchising at WhichFranchise.com

Laura Mills had many years’ experience of dealing with people of all ages, backgrounds and walks of life when she decided to realise a long-held ambition to be her own boss and chose retail-based Mail Boxes Etc. to start a new career as a franchisee.

After almost 20 years as a Woman Police Officer, latterly as a prosecuting sergeant, Laura chose early retirement in 2009, relishing the challenge of doing something new and different. “I felt it was time for a change and I was ready to move on and try something else,” she said.

“I’d always wanted to work for myself. I like people and can handle difficult situations but I had no real business experience so I knew I would have to develop some new skills whatever I did. If I bought a franchise, I would get professional training and on-going support, both big considerations,” she continued.

“I explored franchising thoroughly, went to some franchise exhibitions and then researched different franchises, including Mail Boxes Etc. I looked in depth at a couple of businesses but in the end felt that Mail Boxes Etc. was the franchise that appealed the most,” Laura continued.

Laura’s previous working life had required tact and diplomacy, as well as efficiency and good organisational skills, all essential assets for a retail-based franchisee. Before she joined the Police, Laura had been a Superintendent Registrar, having worked her way to the top with a series of promotions. In fact, she was the youngest woman Superintendent Registrar in the country when she was appointed to the most senior post aged just 31.

Laura has been a franchisee for almost a year now. She thoroughly enjoys being her own boss, secure in the knowledge that she has support from her franchisor, as well as help and advice from other franchisees.

“I am refining my new skills, getting tremendous support from head office with marketing and networking and from other local franchisees, who are only too willing to help me when I hit a log,” Laura said.

“With my staff I offer all the usual Mail Boxes Etc. services, from printing and mail boxes rental to courier services and am developing quite a niche with local auction houses. Franchising offers so many benefits and advantages over starting a new venture on your own, not least the franchisor’s very comprehensive training and also knowing there is always help available when you need it. I am very optimistic about the future,” Laura summed up.

From the public to sector to the open road with Riverford Organic franchise

Fri, 29 Jul 2011 04:09:00 GMT

Information on women in Franchising at WhichFranchise.com

“I went to buy a veg box and ended up buying a veg box business!”

Vanessa Cook left her public sector job in 2005 to join her husband delivering organic vegetables, and other produce, in the Milton Keynes area. Here she talks about her transition from 9-5 office work, to life on the open road as a Riverford Organic franchisee.

Says Vanessa: “My husband Russell used to be a high level electronics engineer working for global companies. He was fed up about always being away from home – staying in hotels and living out of suitcases. And I was tired of my corporate policy and communications role within local government. We both wanted to make a life change and had been discussing starting a business, but we hadn’t considered buying a franchise.

Then Russell saw a Riverford Organic van while he was stuck in a traffic jam on the M40. We’d used a veg box scheme in the past, and liked it, but had stopped using it, probably for circumstantial reasons. Russell knew I’d wanted to find another veg box provider because I really don’t like going to the supermarkets. So he called me as soon as he had the chance to pull over, and suggested that I give Riverford a call to see if I could arrange a delivery.

Perfect Timing

When I called Riverford, I found out that nobody was delivering in the Milton Keynes area because it was too far away from the main farm in Devon to make distribution to Milton Keynes viable. But, a sister farm – Sacrewell Farm – was about to open in Cambridgeshire, and Riverford were ready to begin further expansion. What that meant that was the Milton Keynes territory was available for somebody to buy and develop. It seemed like a perfect opportunity for Russell and I to invest in an area that already appealed to us.

Three weeks later, in June 2004, Russell went down to the Devon farm, and was taken on a tour. After that he met with existing franchisees and liked everyone he met. Then, in October 2004, we signed the franchise agreement and became the owners of the Milton Keynes territory.

Seeds of development

We sold our first box in February 2005, which was a bit scary but also an exciting experience. We finished that first round very late. Everything was new to us. We had to count the takings, and enter the figures into the system Riverford had given us. It was a tiring but thrilling initiation to the business.

At the time, I still hadn’t left my job. Initially, the idea had been for Russell to operate the business while it got off of the ground, and for me to continue working for the local government for the added security in the early stages. But I found it impossible not to get more involved in the veg box business, which interested me more. So in June 2005, I took voluntary redundancy.

From office life to the open road

When we first started out we had 54 deliveries to make on the first day, and 130 in the first week, all found for us by Riverford. That was another thing – the level of support from head office was extremely high right from the start, and enabled us to quickly gather momentum once we started.

Today we have around 800 weekly deliveries and have taken on further territories and drivers.

The thrill of the ride

Personally, I love driving the van around and meeting customers. It’s great fun, and even though I still do a fair bit of administrative work at home, I’ll always want to keep one round going for myself.

Going out in the van is a freeing experience, and meeting people face to face enables you to find out what they want, and need. Engaging with customers also helps to foster their loyalty. In this business, retention is phenomenally important to ensure continued growth. You have to work hard to get new customers, and so that makes it even more important to keep the ones you’ve got. Russell and I thank our customers every night for making our business a success.

Unexpected opportunities and marketing for growth

In December 2009 Riverford asked us if we wanted to also take on the Stevenage territory – mainly because they knew they could trust us to do a good job of running it – and we took it on. Then, in February 2010, we also took on the Luton franchise. The existing franchisee had become very ill and needed to get out quickly, which is why we stepped in.

To promote further growth in our three territories, we do a lot of shows where we can meet people and tell them how Riverford works, and how our products and service can benefit them. We do the shows right through the summer to boost business for the busier autumn and winter months, and they’re also great for generating enthusiasm about the brand. We’re quite evangelical about Riverford, and about organic food, and I think our passion certainly helps when it comes to getting people to try a veg box for the first time.

We also get a lot of additional exposure from the branded vans. The vans are obviously an essential part of the core business, but they also work wonders as a marketing tool. After all, that’s how we found out about Riverford in the first place!

Combined with leafleting, and some advertising in smallish local magazines – plus the genuine quality of produce, which sells itself once people have tried it – we manage to get a good flow of positive word-of-mouth, which helps ensure that we regularly gain new customers.

Over the last six years, we’ve become a strong feature in the local community. All of our customers know we live in Milton Keynes, and for many of them buying organic food from a local business has become very important.

Knowing your Kohl rabi

Once customers have signed up to a veg box delivery, there’s quite a lot of personal interaction and support. We’re very focused on the educational side of the business. That means if a customer doesn’t know what to do with Kohl rabi, we’ll give them some tips or recipes. And if they’re concerned that their carrots are bendy, we’ll remind them to twist the green tops off, which suck up the moisture. These little bits of useful information put people in touch with what fresh organic veg is all about, and they also help to build the essential relationship between our customers and us. As a Riverford franchisee, you really become part of the fabric of the community; you even get to know, for example, if somebody has just had a baby, or if somebody’s relative has just passed away – you become a part of peoples’ lives – and that feels good.

The right balance

Running a Riverford Organic franchise is hard work, but Russell and I have an infinitely better lifestyle than we did when he worked as an engineer and I worked in the public sector. We enjoy a much better quality of life, and although we know Riverford isn’t the kind of business that will make us millionaires, it is a profitable business, and one that makes us very happy – something that’s of far greater value.

From staff member to franchise owner

Mon, 08 Aug 2011 04:09:00 GMT

Information on women in Franchising at WhichFranchise.com

"Before I became involved with Tumble Tots, I was a full time mum with three children at home; two step daughters aged 19 and 15 and my little girl, who was 5 and starting full time school. I had already taken her to the Tumble Tots classes and wanted to be a part of that environment. The kind of place where children have fun and learn, where the staff have a genuine interest in the little ones and you have all the holiday’s off to enjoy your family.

I started working for Tumble Tots as a leader in September of 2004 and loved every minute of my job, so when I found out that a local area had come up for sale I knew that this would be my vocation. 12 months after first joining Tumble Tots as a member of staff, I was now the owner of the franchise for the Wilmslow and Macclesfield area.

So 2 years later, have I achieved my personal goal? Well I hadn't really set myself any; I just take each challenge as it comes and enjoy myself. I think to truly love your job is a great ambition and one which I can say I have fulfilled".

Nicky Miller, Tumble Tots Wilmslow and Macclesfield

It all adds up with Bluebird Care franchise

Mon, 15 Aug 2011 04:09:00 GMT

Information on women in Franchising at WhichFranchise.com

Nicola has been running her Bluebird Care franchise for about 8 months. For the ex-accountant, running her own business had always been her aim. “Like many people I have worked for other people for most of my working life but decided it is time to put all my efforts into my own business” said Nicola.

Nicola identified that the best way for her to get into business was either to buy an established business or explore the franchise route. She attended the Manchester Franchise Show in June 2010 and came across Bluebird Care.

“I had some exposure to the care sector in my last Financial Controller role for a large care home group, so was attracted by the possibility of running my own care at home business as I knew this was a fast growing area.”

“I also was keen to have a business where I could be part of the community and make a difference in providing a high quality of care – I have seen what a difference it makes to people’s lives if they are looked after properly and in their own home” she states.

At the Show Nicola was instantly impressed with Bluebird Care. “The Company’s professionalism shone through from the start and there was a real passion for providing a high quality care service to their customers- something very dear to me”

Following a meeting at the Bluebird Care’s headquarters in Hampshire, Nicola was convinced she was making the right choice of franchise partner. “I looked at other care franchises but Bluebird Care was head and shoulders above the others with their experience in both care and franchising and the franchise package” she continues “and although some offered a cheaper start up cost, I realised Bluebird Care were giving me good value for money”

Having attended the initial franchise owner training course and received her registration with the care authorities, Nicola opened her business earlier this year. “The support from my franchisor has been excellent both to get me ready to trade and since I have been trading. I have a regional Business Development Manager who is always available for help and advice and takes a keen interest in ensuring I am on track. Bluebird Care has delivered what they said they would – and more!”

Due to the careful and detailed preparation of her business, as soon as she was registered as a care provider, Nicola had customers from day 1 and has continued to grow steadily. “I am pleased to say I am ahead of my business plan” explains Nicola “and am delighted with the way the business is growing. I have an excellent care manager, Anna Walker, who has assisted greatly in helping us get to where we are now”.

“Would I do it again – most definitely!” enthuses Nicola “I am realising my dream of running my own business and controlling my own destiny. It is a joy to see my business growing and enjoy the excellent reputation for high quality care we have earned”

Any advice for others? “Do your research, choose your franchise partner carefully and you can be as happy with your business as I am with Bluebird Care” she concludes.

Discover a career in franchising to suit your lifestyle

04:09:00 GMT

Information on women in Franchising at WhichFranchise.com

Working Mum at Raring2go! franchise

Tue, 27 Sep 2011 04:09:00 GMT

Information on women in Franchising at WhichFranchise.com

Helen Murray, a 45-year old former primary school teacher originally from New Zealand, joined Raring2go! almost three years ago and is the archetypal example of a Raring2go! franchisee.

With her two children growing up, Helen really wanted to work as well as ‘just being a mum’. She has a son of six and a daughter, 9½ , who has a lot of ill health so her family have very special requirements. Helen felt employers would hardly be banging at her door to take her on as she could potentially be often absent when her daughter needed her.

She had what she describes as her ‘Eureka moment’ one day while at the hairdressers. She read an article in a magazine about a mother who published a Raring2go! magazine. “I thought ‘I can do this’ and it sounded like it could be the right opportunity”, Helen remembers.

Before making such an important decision though she spent several months researching and questioning the franchisor, and realised it did tick all her boxes – a flexible, fulfilling business opportunity although one which needed commitment, hard work and dedication.

“One of the great things about running a Raring2go! magazine is that I can do it from anywhere. My laptop comes everywhere with me – I take it on holiday and even into hospital – and I can put in the hours as it suits me” says Helen, “but it’s really rewarding, very creative and it means I get the social side that I don’t get as a stay at home mum. I actually get to talk to adults on a daily basis!”

Describing running the business as “incredibly hard work”, Helen says she gets a buzz each time she sends off a magazine to the printers and can’t wait until she gets it back to see how great it looks in print.

“It’s certainly a five day a week job” she adds, “especially when there’s a deadline looming, but normally I’m at my desk by 9.30am and leave at 2.30pm for the school pick-up. I love the challenge and daily workout my brain gets in the process of pulling a whole magazine together.

“No two days are the same. It depends where in the life-cycle of the magazine I’m at and can involve anything from writing sales letters or emails, phoning prospects or advertisers, chasing artwork, designing the magazine or even driving around delivering. It’s quite difficult to switch off as when you work from home, it’s tempting to just check emails as you pass the computer, and it’s amazing how many I get outside of normal working hours. I do a fair bit of business at weekends, before the kids go off to school and late at night. Most of this is with other working mums also trying to fit in work around their families. My husband and I have been together 25 years and work well as a team. He’s great with the kids and gives me lots of space to work on the magazine.

My advice to others looking at franchising as an option is to do lots of research first. Check out the competition and see if there’s a place in the local market for you. Talk to other editors, ask lots of questions and be honest with yourself about whether or not you’re really happy selling advertising space, which is probably one of the things people feel less confident about”.

Helen clearly has a flair because she has already been successful as a Raring2go! editor and has expanded her territory into the neighbouring area. She now runs her original patch of Salisbury where she cut her teeth together as well as the bigger Bournemouth territory and is relishing the fresh challenges that the new area has brought.

Raring2go! franchisees benefit from full training and support right from the start and are supplied with a computer, IT training and magazine templates as well as the guidance and friendship of fellow editors and neighbouring franchisees The Head Office team continue supporting franchisees with friendly, experienced guidance and care and are always at the end of a phone and often out in the field too.

If you want to find out more about the principles of franchising and the opportunities it offers, the British Franchise Association is a good place to start. Raring2go! is an associate member, subscribing and adhering to the bfa's code of conduct and practices.

*Source: 2010 bfa franchise

Gaining satisfaction from Recognition Express

Tue, 08 Nov 2011 04:09:00 GMT

Information on women in Franchising at WhichFranchise.com

Name: Jan Chidley, Hull & East Riding

Commenced Trading:

Previous Job: Full time mum

Jan Chidley, 45, was born in New Zealand and first came to England at the age of 21 for a working holiday.

Jan did a multitude of jobs, including banking, working as a nanny and a credit controller, before meeting her husband Chris and starting a family. Jan and Chris have twins, Sam and Sophie who are at University, and Holly who is almost 16. Having been a full-time mum providing stability for the children whilst they travelled the world with Chris’s job, Jan decided in June 2008 that it was now her time and set up Recognition Express Hull and East Riding. Although Jan is the sole franchisee, husband Chris has been a big support along with the head office staff.

What attracted you to franchising?

“I had a business back in New Zealand with my father, growing apples. We sold it and I decided that I wanted to do something in the UK now that my family are nearly all grown up. I like the idea of doing something that is my own business but where I am supported.

“My husband, Chris, is the CEO of a large nationwide franchise, Driver Hire, and I could see the benefits of being a part of a franchise. There is a list of support needed when starting a new business, and on a day to day basis it is good to know you can pick up the phone and there will be help at the end of the line.”

What was it about Recognition Express that attracted you?

“Nigel Toplis and the team are very supportive, there is a wide range of good quality products and hence a broad range of potential customers, and the business model is sound.”

“My husband Chris was aware of Recognition Express and had met Nigel on several occasions. We both felt that Recognition Express was the right sort of business for me.”

What advice would you give to other women thinking of starting their own business?

“It is hard work, with a lot of commitment required, but if you get it right it is extremely satisfying. It is all about meeting people on a regular basis, forming good relationships and being able to deliver the end product.”

“Having my own business gives me flexibility around my home life, however it is important to remain focused on the business and to continue to put in the time required to keep things on the up.”

“It is not a hobby.”

Would you recommend franchising to other women?

“I would recommend franchising to other women. Whilst you have to do your homework before signing on the dotted line you should be buying into a proven business model. For busy women this can be an appealing option.”

Cafe2U - from survival training to running your own business

Thu, 17 Nov 2011 04:09:00 GMT

Information on women in Franchising at WhichFranchise.com

Laura Macrae, 40, had spent several years working for a survival training company but when she decided to start her own business, franchising was her survival net.

Cafe2U is the world’s largest mobile coffee franchise system, delivering fresh espresso coffee and great food to businesses, events and functions. With over 50 franchises in the UK and over 100 franchises in the rest of the world, their proven business model gave Laura a sense of confidence when starting out on her own.

Laura, Cafe2U’s Aberdeen West Franchise Partner, explains why she chose franchising and why the Cafe2U franchise stood out for her.

“My journey with Cafe2U started when my husband came home from his first day at a new job, raving about the mobile coffee van than parked up outside his office! I had decided that I wanted to start my own business and opening my own café has always been a dream of mine. My husband was already a fan of the Cafe2U coffee but I never would have thought that just a short time later it would be the basis of our household income and that my Jack Russell Terrier would be partial to a cup of Cafe2U too!

“I studied Hotel Catering and Management and spent many years in the hotel industry after college. A change of direction took me into the private sector working in logistics for a survival training company, then 6 years with Visit Scotland as supervisor of Aberdeen’s visitor information centre before a final 2 years with another survival training company as an Accounts Manager.

“I knew I didn’t want to start a business from scratch – it was too big a risk. I already knew about franchising from the big players like McDonalds and Subway and so I searched on the net for more information. It was the Cafe2U concept that caught my eye and the excellent reviews I had received from my husband about their quality products and service that drove me to find out more.

“After discussions with the Cafe2U team, I was really keen on this established and thriving concept and it was clear that there was a good support mechanism in place. I also loved the van which was fitted out with everything you could need – barista equipment, warming oven, fridge – plus it stands out from the crowd and it has an airhorn which announces to everyone when you have arrived – just like an ice-cream van!

“I decided to go ahead with the purchase after just 4 weeks of research. As my franchise territory was being sold on from another franchise partner I was able to spend some time with them learning the ropes as well as the normal formal training programme that every franchise partner takes; I spent 4 days on the van with the previous franchise partner and 2 days in Leeds at the head office. Cafe2U provide ongoing support via phone and email and I receive regular quarterly visits from a member of the Cafe2U team.

“In June 2009 I took my first drive out in my new Cafe2U van and have never looked back. I think it is our unbeatable coffee and great ongoing support from the head office team that makes us a winning blend. I wouldn’t hesitate in recommending this franchise to other people looking to start their own business.”

“My advice to anyone looking at buying a franchise is to research ALL the details and especially the small print, make sure you will always get ongoing support and backup from your franchise brand’s head office, not just when things go wrong.

Laura was recently shortlisted in the Best Drinks category of the Beverage Standard Awards 2011. Even though Laura didn’t win the overall award, the judges commented that her hot drinks were outstanding and the best they had tasted from a mobile coffee van in 2011, resulting in an additional special commendation for her overall standards and delivery.

“My weekday customers are all office-based and 80% of those are linked to the oil industry. I make 30 stops in a day on average. They know when the van arrives as the air horn goes off and customers come out to me. I also take the van to some weekend events, like the Highland Games and agricultural shows, which are another way to boost sales.

“Looking to the future, I want to continue to build a loyal customer base and maybe own a coffee shop as well so that everyone in Aberdeen can enjoy our great coffee!”

If you would like to know more about Cafe2U, why not join one of our Discovery Days? You can register by calling 08456 444708

Giving back to community with the Creation Station

Mon, 19 Dec 2011 04:09:00 GMT

Information on women in Franchising at WhichFranchise.com

Lucy wanted to give something back to her community and found the values of The Creation Station could help her achieve a fulfilling and rewarding business opportunity.

Lucy Jane Titterton passionately believes that strong relationships are crucial to a child’s development. As a new Creation Station franchisee she is now able to pursue her ambition to support families as they build those vital bonds.

“After completing an NVQ in Business studies aged 19 I worked in admin, sales and then a variety of management roles but really wanted to work in the field of child development,” admits Lucy Jane. “I took the first step towards this by gaining a Degree in Education Studies. My aim was to run parenting sessions and I began to write my own programme that would build up the closeness between a parent and child.”

Then Lucy Jane discovered the Creation Station – an award winning and successful educationally based programme where families enjoy art and craft creativity in a fun and relaxed setting. “My life changed overnight! Here was a ready-made package that could fast-track me to building my own business, doing something I truly believed in. It was an opportunity to invest in myself.”

After attending a Creation Station Discovery Morning, where potential franchisees see children and their parents/carers participating in the programme, Lucy Jane was convinced this was the perfect business for her: “I could see the potential immediately it mirrored my own thinking and aspirations.”

“My classes are growing and I am involved with many partnerships in my area. I’m l very excited and my head is spinning with ideas. I have big plans for my business and I’m delighted that at last I have the chance to fulfil my ambitions and support families in my area.”

Franchising is no longer just a man's world

Tue, 31 Jan 2012 04:09:00 GMT

Information on women in Franchising at WhichFranchise.com

The franchise business model is no longer just for men. More and more women are setting up their own franchise business and making a great success of it too. Just a handful of key advantages of buying a franchise include a helpful support team who are always on hand to help guide you, as well as a comprehensive start-up package and a training programme to get you ready.

With a recent case study of 220 female business owners by the business support network Enterprising Women, concluding that many felt stuck when it came to taking their business beyond the start-up stage to the next level, which is why franchising is such a great opportunity to build an excellent profitable business.

One successful franchise story is Anne Hitch from Signs Express (Peterborough). Anne is a full time working mother who has to be very organised in order to juggle a busy workload, motherhood and other commitments. Anne is an active member of the business community, in particular the Cambridgeshire Chamber of Commerce as well as the Chairman of the Women in Business Sector.

Anne’s hard work and determination has inspired her sign making team, which has led to Anne receiving national recognition in the Sign Excellence Awards at the Signs Express Convention. Anne and her team were crowned the winner of the Best Vehicle Graphics project award, for a van completed for Top Hex suppliers of theatre products lighting and stage sound.

Commenting on winning the prestigious award, Anne said; “We are thrilled to have been recognised for this award, it’s great to have our hard work and achievements celebrated by the group. The graphics for the Top Hex van were printed and fitted in-house and it was great for our staff to be able to get involved with the whole process.”

The awards were independently judged by Val Hirst, Editor of Sign Directions Magazine and David Catanach, Director of the British Signs and Graphics Association (BGSA). Both judges advised how difficult their job was made by the extremely high standard of entries this year. Val Hirst, Editor of Sign Directions commented; “Signs Express (Peterborough) picked up this award in respect of its Top Hex vehicle livery. This appealed because it provides an instant and colourful connection to the world of dance and theatre in an eye-catching and amusing way.”

Signs Express (Peterborough) are based on Saracen Business Park, Peterborough and work with a variety of companies in the area. They provide a complete design, manufacture and fitting service for all forms of signage and offer a complete signage solution from interior and exterior signs to vehicle graphics, banners, window graphics and display products.

Select and Parkhouse franchisee finds success

Mon, 06 Feb 2012 04:09:00 GMT

Information on women in Franchising at WhichFranchise.com

Becky Harker
Swindon

Becky Harker loved the company she worked for so much, she bought a part of it!

With a progressive career in recruitment and four promotions under her belt at Select Appointments alone, she returned to work full-time in January 2008 as a new mother and a business owner.

After eight years working through the ranks from Consultant to Business Manager of Select’s Swindon office, she was offered the opportunity to acquire the franchise and jumped at the chance.

In her words “I had managed the team in Swindon for many years and knew the industry and market-place well. This has been the best decision I have ever made. The whole ownership, responsibility and knowing I can make it happen is a challenge and one I am enjoying every day.”

Her background spans industrial, commercial and accountancy recruitment and she chose Select over the competitors as they “had a reputation second to none and a brand that was clear and precise”.

Becky is a shining example of a successful woman in business. Her trophy cabinet bulges at the seams. In the company’s 2006 annual conference she took to the stage to collect the Chief Executive’s Special Award for Excellence, as well as the Most Improved Office Award. She has also coached and managed the Top Temporaries Consultant of the year.

While Becky had a progressive career in recruitment she admits that she is still learning about running her own business and this is where she calls on the expertise and infrastructure of Select as an established franchisor. Prompt answers to a range of operational questions, day-to-day training and development support, together with financial and property advice have all been invaluable resources.

Becky is as passionate about her business, her team, her candidates and her clients today as she was when she walked through the door eight years ago and felt she had found her home. Her passion is contagious and her results speak for themselves.

2009 saw Becky expand her business by purchasing the Parkhouse brand, this enabled her to service her clients increased requirements within the Industrial sector.

From family business to coaching superstar

Thu, 16 Feb 2012 04:09:00 GMT

Information on women in Franchising at WhichFranchise.com

“I’m a ‘do what it takes’ kind of a girl” says Hayley Erner. A casual glance at the meteoric rise of Hayley’s ActionCOACH business suggests she certainly is. In 5 years she has become one of the most financially successful business coaches in the world*, banking £40,000 per month, with a roster of A-grade clients and a waiting list.

However, Hayley Erner’s involvement with ActionCOACH began as a client, when she needed help with her family’s jewellery business.

“When my sister and I bought the business from our parents in 2002 I quickly realised that I didn’t want to step into my father’s shoes and work all the hours he’d worked.

So when, in 2005, a friend recommended the sisters try a local business coach, they jumped at the opportunity to find a better way to run things. He was an ActionCOACH and it was through working with him and learning how to manage their business more effectively that Hayley got the coaching bug:

“In just 6 months I learnt masses. Before long the business was functioning with far less reliance on me. I loved the coaching and what I was learning. It made me wonder ‘how many businesses could benefit from knowing what I’ve learnt?’”

It was while Hayley was having these thoughts that her coach invited her to an ActionCOACH conference and the spark of an idea turned into a flame:

“It blew me away, I just loved the people. They were clever, diverse and confident; the atmosphere in the room was brilliant. I suddenly thought, I’m doing the wrong thing, I should be coaching! I’d experienced for myself how an ActionCOACH can transform a business and I wanted to do that for others.”

“I had complete confidence in the ActionCOACH tools and techniques. Having experienced them first hand as a client, I knew they worked. It’s the world’s No1 business coaching company, so it made absolute sense to buy an ActionCOACH franchise.”

Hayley didn’t delay, she refinanced her home to buy the franchise and then, with single-minded determination, set about growing her coaching business:

Hayley wanted to bank £12,000 in her first month. To motivate herself she devised some little rewards if she achieved the target and committed to something unthinkable if she failed, namely that she would not ride her horse for 6 months. To ensure she reached the target, Hayley met with the UK ActionCOACH with the best conversion rate to learn how to handle prospect meetings.

This goal-orientated approach and focus on learning, helped Hayley succeed in that first month, and she has smashed every target she’s set for herself since. In her first year she was awarded ActionCOACH European Rookie Coach of the Year, she has since won numerous awards including the ActionCOACH Global Award for outstanding performance, while this year the IOD announced her Yorkshire & Humberside Business Advisor of the Year. Indeed Hayley is consistently ranked in the top 100 highest performing Action coaches in the world.

“Having spent 25 years in my family business I know first-hand how overwhelming and exhausting it is running a small business. It can dominate your family life. So it’s an absolute thrill helping business owners ‘get out of’ their business and get it working for them, delivering their dreams.

“I’m very challenging, I know I am. I’m passionate and unwavering as I can see what my clients need to do, but they stick with it because they can see the results.”

Hayley has a thriving highly profitable business, which gives her a six figure income, funds a great lifestyle plus leaves her with surplus cash to invest. What’s more the business is running on her terms. She doesn’t begin coaching each day until 10.30am, which leaves her free to ride her beloved horses.

Looking back over the last five years, Hayley is more convinced than ever that her decision to move to ActionCOACH was a good one.

*Source: 2012 ICF Global Coaching Study - RE: Annual revenue/ income from coaching "in 2011 the average annual revenues from coaching were $47,900"

Fulfilling dream of running own business and working with children

Mon, 16 Apr 2012 04:09:00 GMT

Information on women in Franchising at WhichFranchise.com

Hertfordshire Mum of two Raakhee Morrison decided to join Premier Sport after ten years working for HBOS. Raakhee launched her franchisee in May 2011 fulfilling her dream of running her own business and working with children.

In the short time Rakhee has been trading she has already set up thirteen extra-curricular clubs across eight local schools and exceeded her financial targets. Rakhee’s team has delivered a variety of activities including Athletics, Kwik Cricket, Gymnastics, Racket Sports, Basketball, Street Dance, Netball and Fencing.

Raakhee’s franchisee operates throughout Bushey, Watford, Stanmore Harrow, Rickmansworth and Northwood.

“I have always wanted to run my own business especially after having my children but I was always nervous about starting a business from scratch on my own, so a franchise seemed like the natural thing to go for. I spoke to the Premier Sport coaches at my children’s school and they told me about the opportunity with Premier. I love sports and I love children so it is the perfect career for me.

I believe sports and having an active lifestyle is the best remedy in life……………and if we can teach our children to enjoy sports and have the confidence in themselves from an early age, that is something they will stay with them forever whether they go on to sports professionally or not.”

As someone new to franchising and running your own business what has the journey been like?

“Rollercoaster ! All go !Overwhelming at times and a lot to learn - I love it !

I just love what I am doing now with my career and this is the first time I have felt this way, even though I put in long hours it does not feel like ‘work’ but more of a passion, it’s my business so what I put in I know I will get out. It is a lot of hard work but I have a real drive to succeed and achieve

Also being able to work from home, having the opportunity of working around my sons and my husband, some days it means working very late at night but I feel very lucky to have that option.

My long term aims are to offer great coaching in as many schools as possible, to offer PE Provsion as well a range of EC sports. Have a great team of Coaches who enjoy working with me. To ensure children are getting the best when it comes to sports.

What has the support from Premier Sport been like?

Great they babysit to begin with ( attend meetings with schools, get business on board etc ) then they let you get on with it, you have to find your feet but they are a phone call away when you need support or advice. I call my mentor for anything I am not sure about. Head Office are always keeping us updates with courses and anything else relevant going on.

The professionalism of Premier Sport and drive of their staff and ultimately the support that you receive to run a business has been fantastic.

I would absolutely recommend Premier Sport to people looking to go into business. You don’t have the hassle of starting a new business, the product is ready to sell so that’s half the battle, there’s a lot of support with the franchise business i.e. talking to other franchisee’s who have more experience and are on hand to advise you on anything. So you are not alone.

Premier Sport has extremely high standards which the company prides itself in. And that’s how it should be especially when you are working with children.

CeX franchisee overcomes male dominated industry

Tue, 01 May 2012 04:09:00 GMT

Information on women in Franchising at WhichFranchise.com

Franchisee: Zahida Patel
Franchise Business: CeX

What attracted you to Franchising?

I have experience of running my own business, previously managing a small chain of City Centre Newsagents. My existing business experience meant I could appreciate and understand the challenges of opening and developing a new franchised retail business.

The prospect of a franchised business offered several major advantages for me. It enabled me to set-up a larger business , potentially more profitable, far quicker than I could if I tried to do it on my own. The established identity of a Brand such as CeX’s on many UK High Street’s, means that I would have an instant customer base and it would grow much faster than if I was trying doing it on my own.

Some excellent internal processes and operating systems provided by the franchisor, further complement working in a fast paced retail environment within a Brand such as CeX. For example, they have their own bespoke EPOS system; this ensures that the decision-making is process driven, enabling me and my team to concentrate on looking after our customers.

In addition, I have had the additional confidence of a support network that would help me to prepare me to run my own retail store, and help me to avoid the some of the obvious mistakes that the franchisor had already learned. In addition, with Operational Management support, I have been able to maintain key Business Standards and bench-mark my business performance continually against others.

What’s it like running your own business?

I enjoy the independence of being my own boss, I can set my own goals and enjoy the success of getting things right! However, it can be very demanding at times, which I fully expected. Working in retailing involves long-hours and is not for everyone.

CeX expect the franchisee to be actively involved in their business on a day to day basis, which is a good thing. With the sort of investment required, this is a major commitment and I would not feel confident trusting this to others.

Has being a Woman presented any particular challenges in running your own business?

No, not really, but I’m lucky I think because of my family background and working with my brothers who each have their own businesses has been a great help.

Perhaps the greatest challenge I would say for women, is to appreciate and understand the time commitment that is involved. Long, often-unsociable hours aren’t for everyone, and it is not easy if you are trying to run a business and also cope with the demands that many women face with supporting a family.

Some customers initially treat me differently because I’m a woman. I overcome this by understanding my business and the products within it and I believe, by being confident in my own abilities.

What influenced you to run your own business?

My family have a wide range of experience in retailing and I saw that working within a well-established Brand, with a proven business model had its’ attractions for me.

Everyone considering starting their own business probably has followed their own path to reach that point, and has their own ambitions that they wish to realise. Certainly for myself, this was quite important.

What sort of challenges have you faced?

Lot’s of them! Apart from the obvious ones, such as raising the necessary finance and training. Probably the biggest challenge has been dealing with the demands such a large business places on you. My business is forecast to turnover in excess of £1 million in it’s first year, this can only be achieved with a good team of staff.

Learning to work with a large team of staff, currently I have 12 full and part-time employees, this is one of the biggest, and probably the most-rewarding challenges I face. I consider myself lucky that I’ve recruited a fantastic team of staff that I am very proud of. They’re a great team of people and they make the business work and provide great customer service, which is the key to the success of the business.

What are your ambitions?

I’m hoping to open an additional CeX Store in another town locally. I’ve been carefully planning and considering the requirements for a second business for some time now.

CeX the franchisor, have their own criteria that they wish franchisees to follow, which is all pretty much common sense, working mainly around contingency and succession planning.

What advice would you give a woman setting up a franchise business?

Understand what you are doing and what your long-term commitments are likely to be. Make sure you have a detailed Business Plan put together and take advice from the various professional organisations that work in franchising.

If you have not considered it before, look at the British Franchise Association (BFA) who can provide you with some excellent advice and introduce you to various affiliated organisations that can give you further specialist advice as and when required.

Dynamic female duo for Mail Boxes Etc. franchise

Tue, 01 May 2012 04:09:00 GMT

Information on women in Franchising at WhichFranchise.com

Franchisees: Bridget Maendl and Sehrinaz Celebioglu
Franchise Business: Mail Boxes Etc.
Territory: Waterloo

Bridget Maendl and Sehrinaz (Naz) Celebioglu, are the first exclusively female partnership in Mail Boxes Etc.’s fast growing and increasingly diverse national network of over 125 franchised stores across the UK and Ireland. They opened their store in Waterloo, London, in June 2011.

Neither of these two enterprising ladies was looking for a franchise to buy when they first discovered Mail Boxes Etc. Bridget was working for an estate agency franchise when her husband became interested in Mail Boxes Etc. and asked her to look at it for him. She was very impressed but wanted another opinion so she asked her friend Naz, who has an MA in international business and management, to cast her professional eye over it. Independently of each other, the two decided that Mail Boxes Etc. offered a very exciting opportunity and was just the sort of business they would both like to become part of for themselves. Meanwhile, Bridget’s husband decided to stay working in his existing business.

Whilst Naz and Bridget recognised immediately the potential for the franchise, they were cautious about making the next move and took a year to consider the proposition very thoroughly. They researched franchising, looked in depth at other franchise systems and talked extensively to franchisees in various parts of London.

At the time, Bridget and Naz knew each other quite well but were not particularly close friends. They were confident that they could work together very well and, objectively, they decided to combine their different – yet complementary – skills and talents into a strong working partnership. Bridget would draw on her vast sales and marketing experience and assume responsibility for this area, while Naz would use her financial and administrative expertise to grow and manage the business.

Both had some experience of their own business: Bridget as a partner in an electrical company with her husband and Naz as a finance administrator. Naz saw having a franchise as a way of being able to set up an independent business while Bridget wanted to be her own boss. She commented: "I always work hard so I thought it would be good to get the reward myself.”

After agreeing each other’s areas of responsibility, they started the franchise in new premises and worked hard to get the business off the ground. Their efforts were rewarded with an excellent start – “much better than expected” says Bridget – and they received glowing testimonials from their growing and loyal customer base.

They both liked the fact that there are several distinct areas of the business, with the flexibility to push those services which might be slowing up while enjoying boom sales on others. Currently, shipping is accounting for almost 75% of the business – and growing. They agree that getting the franchise off the ground, just like any new business, required plenty of effort to create brand awareness and that giving some extra service, for example collecting parcels from time-poor customers without charging for the collection, created much goodwill.

Having made an excellent start, Naz and Bridget are not letting up. “We had to create awareness so people would understand what we do, but we can’t be complacent now. We must continue to work just as hard to maintain our presence,” they said. “There are limitless opportunities for us to grow as so many new businesses are springing up in this area now, mainly creative ones such as film companies and art galleries,” they continued.

Naz is from a family of entrepreneurs: she is the youngest of seven siblings and they all have their own businesses. She came from Turkey to study at Westminster University and after graduation liked the UK so much she decided to stay. Bridget, originally from the West Country, was a specialist in residential property and lives in North London not far from Naz.

Chris Gillam, who heads Mail Boxes Etc.’s recruitment, said: “It is always great to welcome bright and enthusiastic people into the network, like Bridget and Naz who are our first all-female partnership. There are many other women in Mail Boxes Etc, those operating their own stores and others sharing with their husbands and partners.

“Mail Boxes Etc. is a business that suits men and women equally well and, just like any other, success depends on the individual’s attitude and effort, not their gender.”

Signs Express franchisee is one of the inspiring personalities behind the brand

Thu, 10 May 2012 04:09:00 GMT

Information on women in Franchising at WhichFranchise.com

Franchisee: Anne Hitch
Territory: Peterborough
Franchise:Signs Express

Signs Express is the UK and Ireland’s leading signs and graphics franchise, established in 1989 with a network of over 75 franchisees. Anne Hitch is Managing Director of Signs Express in Peterborough, and also owns an additional territory area operating the Kings Lynn area. As the only sole woman at the helm of a Signs Express franchise she is one of the inspiring personalities behind the brand.

We spoke to Anne about her career path and what qualities she believes makes her successful in business. As well as being an award-winning franchisee, Anne is a mother of two, an active member of her local business network and proactively supports charities and community causes.

“I started off my working life in office support roles but my longer term ambition was always to become by own boss”, explains Anne.

“Having a partner with professional interests abroad led to our living in the Middle East for 10 years, while our boys were young. Whilst away, I studied a part time correspondence business management degree and am very proud to have graduated with first class honors. We returned to England for the children’s schooling. Although I was initially looking into managerial jobs, my partner and I went on to buy a Signs Express franchise. As circumstances changed I began running the business by myself and have been doing that for three years now.

Anne observes that things have changed since she became sole manager. “I have an extremely supportive and highly skilled team. The hallmarks of my management style are diplomacy, empathy and flexibility. It’s a softer management style compared to some men I know but I think this helps to get the best out of people. I plan ahead so that production is consistent, avoiding peaks and troughs where possible. Everyone in the team has their specialism but is also trained to cover other roles. For example our sales person has had risk assessment training, so this is something factored in to initial contact with clients, rather than further down the line.

“Credit control and good financial management are my strengths. Yes, it’s good to know the technical side of things, but good business management is most important when running a management franchise, knowing your overheads and so on. The business degree gave me so much knowledge. You’re never too old to learn.

How does Anne balance work and motherhood? “Being a full time working mother, there are times when I’ve got to be in too many places at once. You have to ask flexibility of your kids sometimes. Being self employed, if I have to take someone to the hospital for example, I can do it. Things might not always happen when I’d like them to, but they do get done.

On women in business, Anne says: “Women have so much to offer. Being organised is critical to business success and this is where I think women excel. Many working women also run a household, do the shopping, cooking, cleaning and so on. Most of us intuitively juggle and multi task and that’s often played down. I think that women have to be confident in their ability. Sometimes this can come across as a bit hard but you have to be brave and have a go. I’ve had it all said to me in the past; “how are you going to do that”? If you believe negative comments you will lack confidence and won’t achieve.”

“I feel a bit of a pioneer, being the only lady operating as a sole franchisee within the Signs Express network. Hopefully I will inspire other women to seek out similar business opportunities.”