West Midlands Franchisee Case Studies on whichfranchise.com

A product I'd be proud to sell

Tue, 27 Jan 2009 04:05:01 GMT

West Midlands Franchise Oppotunties at WhichFranchise.com

‘I went into business with WPA because I wanted a product I’d be proud to sell,’ says Keith Iliffe.

Keith, 54, has been the WPA franchisee covering Warwick, Stafford and Leamington Spa since November 2006. ‘I know I am selling an ethical product, and that WPA will deliver what I say it will,’ he says.

Keith had no experience of financial services before he joined WPA, having worked in hospitality as a business development director, run a sales training consultancy and then a property agency in Spain.

‘When I returned to the UK I was looking for a new business opportunity. I had a friend who worked with WPA and saw how much he enjoyed what he was doing.

‘I had also had a family policy while in one of my jobs, so knew the service was good,’ he says.

After seeing WPA at the National Franchise Exhibition in Birmingham, attending an open day with his wife Jen, and speaking to several franchisees, he decided to take the plunge.

‘WPA’s training gave me a thorough grounding in the products, which is vital because it is your product knowledge that gives you credibility with customers,’ says Keith.

‘It is certainly not the hard sell. I am more like a consultant or advisor, listening to my customers’ needs and guiding them as to their best product choice.’

After two years in the business he is planning to employ his wife Jen in the New Year to support existing clients and help with claims issues, leaving him more time to concentrate on sourcing new business.

He advises others considering a WPA franchise: ‘Don’t be daunted by the idea of selling medical insurance. You get good initial and on-going training and there’s a back-up team at the end of the phone to ask about anything you are unsure of.

‘WPA has a sound range of products, and an ethical way of doing business.’

Success at Servicemaster franchise

Fri, 27 Feb 2009 04:05:01 GMT

Success at Servicemaster franchise

West Midlands Franchise Oppotunties at WhichFranchise.com

Tony Quinn ServiceMaster Contract services Stoke.

I bought my ServiceMaster Contract Services franchise in January 1997 and after some training, advice and network support I started trading in February 1997. By following the systems that I had been advised and trained to follow by ServiceMaster I gained and started my first cleaning contracts in April. (After 10 years I still service these contracts). I now employ almost 200 staff and have a turnover in excess of £1,000,000.

I bought the franchise after researching other franchised operations in a variety of service industries. The ServiceMaster franchise appealed to me because of the relatively low cost of purchase and the opportunity to gain and maintain a regular customer base. Although, as in all businesses, it can be hard work, the rewards can compensate for this in seeing my business grow and develop and the opportunities that it has created for the employment of others in assisting me to run the business effectively.

I have found that the network of fellow franchisees of like-minded people with similar issues and businesses to run are of a great help, particularly if you are new to the industry and need support and advice.

By following some basic principles and planning I can vouch for a successful ServiceMaster Clean business.

Card Connection franchise recruits new Birmingham franchisee

Mon, 09 Mar 2009 04:05:01 GMT

Card Connection franchise recruits new Birmingham franchisee

West Midlands Franchise Oppotunties at WhichFranchise.com

Leading greeting card publisher and franchisor, Card Connection, has today announced that it has recruited a new franchisee for the Birmingham area. Former convenience store owner, Asif Malik, is now responsible for delivering and merchandising Card Connection’s extensive range of quality greeting cards and gifts to more than 200 retailers in the region which include the likes of Netto, Budgens, Londis, Spar and Shell.

“I worked with Card Connection franchisees for around eight years as a retail customer,” confirms Asif Malik, Birmingham franchisee for Card Connection. “I was therefore, well aware of the quality of Card Connection’s products and the company’s award-winning merchandising service. I did spend some time researching other greeting card companies before buying the franchise but I found none were comparable in terms of the professionalism and dedication I experienced from the Card Connection team.”

“We are delighted to welcome Asif as our newest franchisee,” confirms Andrew Cutler, franchise director for Card Connection. “His extensive retail and management experience makes him well placed to establish his business quickly. I know he already has exciting plans to take on additional merchandisers in order to maximise the potential profits of his territory.”

Card Connection itself is one of the UK’s largest card publishers and is the market leader in the franchised distribution of greeting cards. Using a proven system, franchisees place greeting card ranges in retail outlets on a ‘consignment’ basis. The award winning merchandising service provided to retailers by local franchisees is second to none and has established the company’s excellent reputation especially within the convenience sector.

Card Connection has limited vacancies for franchisees who are keen to run an expanding business. Successful candidates would ideally have some management experience as, once established, they would be expected to employ a small team, operate a warehouse and have several liveried vans on the road.

Because the franchise networks in the UK and Ireland are complete, the available opportunities now consist of acquiring an already-established territory from an existing franchisee. These vary in price according to their level of development, but start at £20,000 (+ stock) with earnings potential in excess of £50,000 per annum.

Family business at United Carpets franchise

Tue, 17 Mar 2009 04:05:01 GMT

Family business at United Carpets franchise

West Midlands Franchise Oppotunties at WhichFranchise.com

Andy and Diane work as a team at United Carpets and emphasise to customers the family business aspect. Diane only started working in the shop two years ago but it gives her the flexibility to work around the demands of having a daughter at school with a busy after school life.

Andy worked as an Area Manager for a national joinery and kitchen company and was looking to start his own business. Diane came from an Import/Export background working in an office, therefore had no retail experience but had good customer service skills.

Diane says “working in our family business with my husband obviously means I see a lot more of him than ever before, but so far it seems to work. I now do not worry if I have to leave early or if our daughter has a day off school as I have the flexibility to be there for her. I started by doing the administration but soon started selling as a lot of the more mature customers seem to be more comfortable dealing with a female”

Andy says” I was looking to start my own business in retail but the only premises I could rent were small shops, I realised that if I wanted a larger retail business from day one then franchising was the answer.

I then took on the United Carpets franchise in Northfield which opened in March 2005. Despite early setbacks such as, the Rover car factory, less than a mile away, closing down shortly after we opened and a couple of weeks later road works starting, to build a relief road around the high street which lasted 2 years and has only just finished. Even with this adversity we broke even in year one and grew the business so at the end of year two we has achieved sales 54% higher than year one.

We are now in year three at Northfield and the sales continue to grow as we build a reputation in the area for value for money and excellent customer service. I can honestly say that I have never had any regrets about taking on a United Carpets franchise. I am in control of my own business with a support network of other stores in the area as well as head office. We have excellent products with great group buying power from our suppliers which means we can sell at extremely competitive prices.

Recognise Success

Tue, 07 Apr 2009 04:05:01 GMT

Recognise Success

West Midlands Franchise Oppotunties at WhichFranchise.com

Prior to buying a Recognition Express franchise, Alex Newman had worked for the company for six years.

Nigel Toplis – Managing Director, Recognition Express

“When you go into a franchise, you need to be sure it’s a business you can trust, with a proven track record. With Recognition Express you can be part of a major success story.”

Before you go into a franchise be sure it is one you can trust and with a proven track record:

bfa Franchise of the Year 2003
Over 30 years’ experience and profitability
Top Franchise Owners sales over £1million
Year on year growth
Full member of the bfa since 1980
Europe’s number one industry provider

It is unusual for a franchisee to have inside knowledge of a franchise prior to joining it, however when Alex Newman became a Recognition Express franchisee his six years’ experience of working for the company meant he had a unique understanding of the business.

“Before becoming a Recognition Express franchisee I was working for the franchisor as an IT manager and I was involved with the training of new franchisees,” explains Alex Newman. “Although I looked at other franchises, the fact that I had prior knowledge of Recognition Express was a major reason for me joining. I also liked the fact that the franchise is sales and marketing based with production and design work involved too.”

Recognition Express provides businesses with a wide variety of products including name badges, promotional items, corporate clothing and small signs. Franchisees can either produce the products themselves using state-of-the-art computerised equipment or sub-contract this element out and operate as sales and management hubs.

Despite having worked for the company, Alex underwent the same training as all new franchisees. “The training was excellent,” remembers Alex. “It covered every aspect of the job such as sales, marketing, accounts and finance, using the software and training on products.”

Since the launch of his first Recognition Express in Coventry in March 2005 Alex has had support from the franchisor whenever he needed it: “Due to my knowledge of the company I’ve not needed a lot of support, however I did get support on sourcing products and with accounts. I’ve also needed some help with sales and marketing, as I’d not really has much experience with that aspect. There is also a network of support among franchisees and we all try to help each other out when we can.”

With his last year turnover of £200,000 and having opened a second Recognition Express franchise in Warwick in July 2007 Alex is pleased with the way his business is going. “I really enjoy running my own business and being my own boss. Making money for myself and having the flexible hours that comes from working for yourself is great.”

Still building-up is franchises Alex advises those looking into franchising:

“Be prepare to work harder than when you were employed. Also make sure you check out the franchise before you sign-up, I was lucky to have inside knowledge because it is important to know what you’re getting into.”

Sir Bernard Ingham, bfa President

“I have always found Recognition Express to be a model franchise. It is an outstanding example of a company which takes ethical franchising seriously. The benefits are shared by Recognition Express, its franchisees and its customers. And that is why it is successful.”

Kall Kwik franchise reveals secret of Superbrand success

Fri, 24 Apr 2009 04:05:01 GMT

Kall Kwik franchise reveals secret of Superbrand success

West Midlands Franchise Oppotunties at WhichFranchise.com

Business design and print specialist, Kall Kwik has been awarded Business Superbrand status for the fifth consecutive year, highlighting its status as one of the UK’s most recognised brands.

Kall Kwik was put through a rigorous selection process, which monitored the opinions of an independent council of experts and more than 1500 business professionals surveyed by research agency YouGov, in order to maintain its Superbrand status.

Mike Dewsbury, Managing Director of Kall Kwik, unveils the secrets to achieving Business Superbrand success:

Consistency – Brand positioning and recognition is key. A business brand must convey your company offering, service and values at a glance. It must be safeguarded at all times to ensure integrity and trust amongst your existing and potential client base.

Coverage – Your brand must be visible, be that through the footprint of your operations or by a defined advertising and brand strategy. Kall Kwik operates a network of more than 150 centres UK wide, which operate out of very visible business premises. The challenge is ensuring the same service and delivery from each and every one of our centres.

Development & Growth – A business should always promote development and growth in order to re-energise the brand. Regularly review that it does ‘what it says on the tin.’ A fast growing company can often lose sight of whether its brand continues to reflect the company’s product or service delivery.

Differentiation – Staying ahead of competitors seems like an obvious way to guarantee success – but can often be the single hardest thing to achieve. A combination of keeping abreast of industry developments, whilst listening and reacting to your client’s needs on a constant basis will stand you in good stead.

Values - Stand by your own company ethos and values, clients will respond better to a consistent and trustworthy over a changeable and transient brand.

Clients must feel confident that the package you sell to them is exactly what they are going to get right through from brief to delivery.

Mike adds: “Securing the Superbrand status for the fifth consecutive year is a great accolade for Kall Kwik. Our brand and offering has continued to evolve, expanding into creative design in recent years. We still continue to be one of the most recognised names in our industry which is testament to keeping our eye on safeguarding the brand and its values, as well as the market place.”

Kall Kwik provides high quality print, direct mail and design services to businesses throughout the UK using the latest digital printing equipment, graphics design software and fully trained network of more than 150 franchisees.

Positivity of franchising with Cartridge World in the face of the Credit Crunch

Mon, 15 Jun 2009 04:05:01 GMT

Positivity of franchising with Cartridge World in the face of the Credit Crunch

West Midlands Franchise Oppotunties at WhichFranchise.com

Stuart Lloyd

Cartridge World Nuneaton

Background

Stuart Lloyd opened his Nuneaton franchise of Cartridge World in May 2006. Prior to this he had built up a number of transferable skills while managing a private health club. His strengths had been looking after the membership, ensuring their satisfaction and therefore encouraging them to sign up again year after year.

A combination of factors encouraged Stuart to look beyond the health club sector, and also to investigate operating his own business. The increased ‘hard-selling’ in the health-club industry and the management structures influenced his decision. Stuart wanted to be accountable for his own decisions, rather than accountable for edicts handed down from a higher tier of management.

Stuart has brought his knowledge in delivery of the best customer services to his Cartridge World franchise.

What introduced them to Cartridge World

It was however the health-club industry which introduced Stuart to Cartridge World. The partner of the health-club’s assistant manager ran Cartridge World Rugby and Stuart had been aware of this business for some time. After leaving the health club, and to gain further insight into the Cartridge World model, he spent two months in the Rugby store learning more about how the business operated. Stuart has very much based his Nuneaton store on experiences taken from the Rugby store.

Success to date

Since its launch, Cartridge World Nuneaton has shown stead month-on-month growth. Stuart readily admits that getting the business off the ground was not easy, with the first 12 months in business being tough.

One area of substantial growth in the last 12 months is B2B customers. In November 2007, Stuart engaged a local telesales company to work with the franchise and build the B2B database. During this time, business customers have gone from 30 to over 100.

This is not to the detriment of B2C customers. Stuart’s figures for September are up almost 50 per cent on the same month a year ago. Consumer business continues to grow steadily – importantly his current customer base remains happy and keeps returning, while more new customers learn about Cartridge World.

Stuart says ...“I definitely recommend that you speak to a few of the Cartridge World franchisees before you launch your own franchise. This will give you a clear overall picture.

“Some people invest in a franchise to develop for a number of years, sell and realise the profit. For me it was important to create a small and friendly operation. I want to remain involved and hands-on day to day. I’m in this for the long term.

“The training at Cartridge World Franchise Support in Harrogate was great – and really enjoyable. Even though I already had some instore experience, it was really beneficial to see the recommended methods of refilling.

“There is so much to take in but the support remains very good. Even after two years trading, we’re in touch with Technical Support regularly. Having access to that knowledge is massively beneficial for the business.”

Cartridge World in the Credit Crunch

The credit crunch is affecting the business in different ways. From a business management point of view, Stuart’s dealings with the bank have certainly been affected by the stagnation in the banking system.

On the shop floor the credit crunch is not necessarily a bad thing. The risk is that B2B customers go into administration while still owing Cartridge World money. However, on the upside, the credit crunch appears to be having a positive effect as consumers and businesses seek cost effective alternatives. Cartridge World Nuneaton is, as a result, receiving increased numbers of enquiries.

Stuart says: “The cost element is key in seeking the alternative to the original manufacturer’s replacement product. With the savings offered at Cartridge World, we are able to say that, to date, the credit crunch has not had a negative effect on sales. Most likely, its influence is the complete opposite and it is helping the steady growth of the business.”

Carving out a niche with Cartridge World franchise

Thu, 18 Jun 2009 04:05:01 GMT

Carving out a niche with Cartridge World franchise

West Midlands Franchise Oppotunties at WhichFranchise.com

Steve Smith

Cartridge World Wylde Green, Birmingham

Background

Steve Smith needed a change. He’d been working for the same logistics group for 20 years, gaining valuable experience as a finance manager, but felt he wanted to carve out his own niche.

What introduced him to Cartridge World

Already a Cartridge World customer, Steve knew that the company to be a strong brand and the biggest name in cartridge refilling and remanufacturing in the UK. When he delved into the details further and learned about the profitability of existing franchises, his mind was made up.

Progress to date

Steve opened his brand new store in July 2006. His business-to-business sales have been increasing significantly, which Steve reckons is in part due to the recession, as businesses increasingly look for ways to save money. The high quality products and service, along with the fact that Steve operates as a local business and can resolve problems for customers straight away, are also factors he attributes to the business’s success.

Steve can’t speak highly enough of the Cartridge World technical team, which has provided him with comprehensive support and ensures that the range of products available for him to sell is consistently industry-leading.

Steve also takes advantage of the support offered by the team at Cartridge World’s UK head office in Harrogate, North Yorkshire, which provides, among other things, national marketing and advertising campaigns and ongoing research and development. Steve also has a Business Development Manager assigned to his store.

Longer-term, Steve aims to keep raising revenue, but to keep the business at a size where he can remain ‘hands-on’.

Making a contribution to the community is something that Steve takes pride in. In a show of support for one of his customers who suffers from a heart condition called cardiomyopathy, Steve donates £1 for each cartridge placed in a collection box to the specialist department at his local hospital.

Steve also runs cartridge collection schemes enabling local schools to raise money and regularly donates printers as prizes to local fairs and fetes.

Steve says...

“I have been impressed with Cartridge World right from the start – beginning with the intensive training I received at head office before I opened my store, which was not only incredibly useful but fun too.

“The environmental benefits of the business are important to me – it’s why I originally became a Cartridge World customer – and it’s an issue that society as a whole is taking more and more notice of.

“The money-saving aspect is really crucial, especially now, given the recession. It’s getting to a point where customers are seeking out my business, rather than the other way round.

“My ultimate aim is to set myself up comfortably for retirement – and I really believe that’s possible with Cartridge World.”

Worthwhile hard work with The Camping and Caravanning club company

Wed, 24 Jun 2009 04:05:01 GMT

Worthwhile hard work with The Camping and Caravanning club company

West Midlands Franchise Oppotunties at WhichFranchise.com

Franchisee case study

Lynn & Bill Sayer, Hereford

After 27 years of running his own training consultancy, Bill Sayer was semi-retired and, as he put it, “bored”. Bill’s wife Lynn, an account director of a call handling company, also had ideas of doing something different.

Bill commented: “I wanted to be busy doing something new but I just hadn’t found the right opportunity. Ideally, we wanted a complete change of lifestyle. I suffer from “SAD” (seasonal affective disorder) and feel ill during most of the winters in the UK. The perfect role for me would be to work in the summer and to be able to take winters off but I knew that positions like that are virtually impossible to find. I’d have to create my own.”

Having previously started his own business from scratch, Bill knew only too well that in the first few years of any new venture you can make some very expensive mistakes. Now in their fifties, Bill and Lynn felt they did not have the time to recover from ‘expensive mistakes’. Bill was also certain that he had had enough of being a sole trader. While they had never worked together before, neither of them ruled out the possibility.

“By chance, a fellow-caravanning friend came round one evening for a drink and mentioned that The Camping and Caravanning Club were offering franchises”, Bill explained. The opportunity ticked every box for Bill and Lynn. They applied to the club that very same evening.

After the formalities had been completed and they had been accepted by the Club, Lynn and Bill started looking for a suitable park. They sold their house so they would be able to complete immediately they found the right one but it was to be another two years before they were able finally to realise their dream.

“We remained very optimistic, because we were keen to get going but it is a fact that during that time very few parks came on to the market. We eventually found one called The Millpond set in an idyllic spot in Herefordshire. It was a 26 acre under-performing park, with a three and a half acre fishing lake, which needed much investment and improvement”, Bill said.

An instant decision was made and within six weeks they were the new park owners. The first winter saw them installing a shop, a new reception area, an upgraded shower and toilet block and roads. They also increased the number of hard standing pitches with electric hook ups and generally improved the campsite’s landscape.

“However, all the hard work has been worthwhile because from the time we opened here in Hereford in March 2008 our site has been very successful and our life just fabulous. We have a wonderful campsite in a beautiful area,” they commented.

Lynn and Bill moved from Northampton to Hereford and “absolutely love it”. “The business and our lifestyle here continue to tick every single box for us. We love the area, the local people who were very welcoming and supportive and our visitors, who come from so many different places. In fact, we would continue to live here even without the park,” they said.

“Not that we ever want to retire, we love it so much that we’ll probably carry on working until we are too old to do it anymore,” Bill added.

Being part of the Club’s franchise has many advantages, not least the national and international marketing, the inclusion in the Club’s annual directory for its 400,000 plus members and the website, as well as Club Rez, the centralised advance bookings system.

“The franchise promotes our site to holidaymakers in a way that a lone operator could never hope to achieve. We certainly wouldn’t want to be alone running a completely independent site. It’s a great feeling to be part of a team, so that when we are on holiday in the winter, perhaps sipping a G & T by a pool, we know that Club Rez is taking bookings for us while we’re away,” Bill said.

Bill and Lynn both say that, leaving aside the lifestyle advantages, the Club franchise is a great business to have. They comment: “This has been a solid investment. It has been hard work but the returns are very good and the ability to build repeat business is excellent. We have one customer who has returned 17 times in the last year. We, nor the park are perfect, but we guess we are doing most things right!”

Franchising with Cartridge World a cost effective alternative

Wed, 01 Jul 2009 04:05:01 GMT

Franchising with Cartridge World a cost effective alternative

West Midlands Franchise Oppotunties at WhichFranchise.com

Hugh and Alex Pattison-Appleton

Cartridge World Hereford

Background

Husband and wife team Hugh and Alex Pattison-Appleton made some substantial changes in early 2008. Not only did they opt to work together, but they chose to run their own business.

Hugh had previously spent 15 years ‘running schools’ while Alex had been self-employed at various times, so both brought relevant experience to their new venture – a venture they spent some time and effort researching. In reality it was circumstances that led to Hugh and Alex operating a business together – however it was something they had always believed they could do successfully and when the opportunity arose, they had no reservations in pursuing it.

What introduced them to Cartridge World

Hugh and Alex looked into a number of very varied businesses, both service and manufacturing, though Cartridge World was the only franchise system they investigated. They were looking to take over an established business and in February 2008 they bought Cartridge World Hereford because, in their own words, ‘the figures stacked up.’

With increased talk at the time of a looming recession, Cartridge World seemed the most ‘recession-proof’ which was another influencing factor. Hugh and Alex were encouraged by the access to Cartridge World’s R&D and technical support – after all they were going to be first-time business owners and they knew back-up would be welcome. Hugh and Alex were also impressed that the staff had remained with the business for some time - one since the business had first opened 4 ½ years earlier in 2003.

Success to date

Both Hugh and Alex would admit that getting an established business to operate as they wanted took longer than expected, but they had clearly identified the B2B potential for Cartridge World. In the short time since they bought the business, they have watched this side of the business grow steadily.

Despite operating within a franchise system, Cartridge World gives franchisees the flexibility to develop their own business as they see fit. Developments brought in by Hugh and Alex have been welcomed by the staff who are enthusiastic to watch the business grow further under its new owners.

Hugh and Alex are genuinely enjoying working together – though they do admit they talk far too much about the business. It has lifestyle as well as working benefits. It means that they can manage their lives around their children more easily with one of them always at home.

There are other benefits as well; with both partners working in the business they get twice the tax allowance.

Hugh and Alex say ...

“With both consumers and businesses feeling the credit crunch, Cartridge World can now prove it is recession proof. This is an opportunity to begin conversations with people who wouldn’t necessarily have gone looking for a cost-effective alternative – but virtually every customer who comes through our door is delighted at the money they are saving. And delighted customers tell their friends and spread the word.

“There was one main reason why we bought Cartridge World Hereford – the numbers worked. If you’re looking to operate your own business, that has to be the best advertisement possible.”

Cartridge World in the Credit Crunch

Hugh and Alex have found that who would have previously only used the original manufacturer’s replacement cartridges are now, as a result of the credit crunch, far more receptive to refilling and remanufacturing printer cartridges. They honestly believe that the credit crunch is influencing growth for their franchise.

Customers who have become aware of Cartridge World are thrilled with the money they can save. They are also aware that refilled cartridges often last longer, and the quality is equivalent. People who have been burned by cheaper cartridges causing their printer to play up need reassuring that with Cartridge World this is not the case. Once reassured, they are committed to the brand.

Perfection with Perfect Pizza franchise

Mon, 13 Jul 2009 04:05:01 GMT

Perfection with Perfect Pizza franchise

West Midlands Franchise Oppotunties at WhichFranchise.com

Coming from a background in Graphic Design and having operated a successful Domino’s franchise in the past, I decided that it was time to get back into the pizza business. In the summer of 2008 I started my research into the pizza delivery market. I have always had a great passion for the pizza business, but even though I have many years experience in this market, I didn’t want to go out totally on my own as an independent - I wanted to work with a well-known, professional brand.

I fully appreciate the benefits of operating a franchise, and, having researched the Perfect

Pizza brand and tasted the product on several occasions, I decided to open a store in the West Midlands.

The best thing about franchising is that it provides the opportunity to duplicate a tried and tested business model. With the right amount of enthusiasm and drive it will succeed.

There are obvious benefits to being linked to an organisation like Perfect Pizza. You pay to be part of a very strong brand - one that is well known throughout the UK and synonymous with quality. Independent pizza delivery operators couldn’t afford that sort of marketing spend, but working together, we can have a much greater impact. I really value the unrivalled training and management support from Perfect Pizza.

Perfect Pizza offers an excellent back up service in terms of training, financial advice, marketing and product development. Lots of people open independent pizza businesses but only a small number succeed, owing to lack of marketing and operations support.

With Perfect Pizza, I have been provided with training in all aspects of the business - including learning how to make the pizzas, operate the equipment and all other necessary skills required to deliver a top quality product.

Perfect Pizza is a great company - it’s very innovative and exciting, the people are always developing new concepts and ideas. The prospects are fantastic.

Tapping into a gap in the market with Merry Maids

Tue, 21 Jul 2009 04:05:01 GMT

Tapping into a gap in the market with Merry Maids

West Midlands Franchise Oppotunties at WhichFranchise.com

I was a sales person for a company supplying and maintaining plant displays in hotels, banks, offices etc.

I was looking for a change in my career and was aware of the need for reliable domestic cleaners in the area I live; I decided to research various options for starting my own business.

I was attracted to franchising as I had no previous business experience and the franchisors proven system covered all these needs in their training programme. Plus I was looking for the ongoing support that a franchise gives.

After researching some alternative franchises I found I particularly liked Merry Maids due to it having a strong brand name. I also liked the camaraderie which now enables me to share with other franchisees our experiences and knowledge.

The thing I most about working for myself is the independence I have in running my cleaning franchise business.

There are many benefits in running my own business; mainly I have been able to build up my business to the point where I do not have to be working in it everyday. Meeting with other franchisees to share experiences is also invaluable.

ServiceMaster/Merry Maids contribute towards our support or growth; I can call on the specialised, knowledgeable support personnel when required.

My husband and I employ a Manager, Quality Supervisor, Trainer and Maids. The business is run from a unit, which is set up to cater for the growth of our business over the coming years.

I enjoyed running and building up my own Merry Maids franchise so much that I joined ServiceMaster to use my knowledge and experience to support other franchisees.

Autovaletdirect franchise is the right direction to me

Fri, 22 Jan 2010 04:05:01 GMT

Autovaletdirect franchise is the right direction to me

West Midlands Franchise Oppotunties at WhichFranchise.com

Name Paul Salmon

Location Birmingham

Franchise AutovaletDirect

Why I chose franchising

I wanted to run my own business, but I also wanted the backing of a professional organisation behind me, able to advise me and point me in the right direction.

Also the chances of success with a well organised franchise is much higher

What I did before taking up a franchise

I was a retail Store Manager with British Home stores

How I raised the finance

I received a Business loan from Lloyds TSB.

The loan became a lot easier to process, when the bank knew the loan was to invest in a franchise, especially a franchise with a BFA affilation.

The training and support I receive from my franchisor

The training and back up was excellent. I had 2 weeks of thorough one to one training with an experienced franchisee, as well as the franchisor, feedback was always given.

The training didn’t finish there because 2 weeks after going back to your franchise area, the franchisor would then come to you for up to a week and spend quality time in giving you more training and advise.

There was always someone to speak to for help and advise, be it the franchisor or an experienced franchisee.

The challenges I have faced

The challenge is to be self motivated, to go out there and actively seek out the opportunities to grow your business.

You are going to have a lot of people who are going to say no to you, but you have to keep going because there are a lot of people who will say yes

My advice to someone thinking of buying their first franchise

Research, research research.

Make sure there is a market for what you are proposing to do.

Speak to as many of the franchisees as you can to get their feedback.

My plans for the future

My plan is to be successful franchisee with Autovalet direct.

Continue to build my customer base, because it can never be too big.

Use my retail background in improving the customer service that I am offering

Make a difference with Home Instead franchise

Wed, 11 Aug 2010 04:05:01 GMT

Make a difference with Home Instead franchise

West Midlands Franchise Oppotunties at WhichFranchise.com

Franchisee: Judith Herrod,

Franchise: Home Instead Senior Care

Territory: Stone, Staffordshire

Judith Herrod took ownership of the Stone franchise in Staffordshire in January 2008.

If you ask Judith why she became involved in the care business she will tell you about her parents, an independent couple in their 70’s who travel abroad almost every month and who enjoy life to the full. She will then tell you that their biggest fear is losing their independence.

Like many others who are involved with Home Instead Senior Care, Judith fully understands the importance of supporting the elderly in their own homes and sees how, by providing this care, elderly people can gain many years of independent living.

When you ask Judith how she became involved in care she laughs: “I woke up in New York on my 50th birthday and thought – what shall I do with the rest of my life?” Judith had always been interested in the franchise model for businesses so on arriving home she went on the internet and searched for the latest franchise opportunities. It was here that she read about Home Instead Senior Care, Judith continues: “I saw the words ‘Making a Difference’ and that was it, I just knew this was the business opportunity for me.”

Prior to purchasing her franchise Judith had enjoyed a successful career as Head of Fundraising for a well-known children’s hospice in the Midlands, and before that had owned and run an estate agency/property management company in the Costa Del Sol with her husband.

Whilst Judith found her fundraising role with the hospice hugely rewarding, she did find it unrelenting. “At times I felt like a hamster on a wheel. We constantly had targets to meet and it seemed never ending. I was good at what I did and the job was well paid but I suppose when I hit 50 I decided that I needed to be my own boss again, but I still wanted to do something worthwhile.”

Judith’s friends think she is crazy setting up on her own but she says: “I have less stress now than in any of my previous jobs. Home Instead is already operating as a successful and proven business model so all the systems are there – it’s just down to me to get on with it. The team at head office are great and are there if I have any queries or need any additional support.”

She continues: “What’s really unusual is that there are no targets to meet other than those I set myself. This is the first private company I’ve found that has the ethos of the voluntary sector – they really do want to make a difference. I’ve never been happier.”

Change of career gives Mac Tools franchise a bright future

Mon, 25 Oct 2010 04:05:01 GMT

Change of career gives Mac Tools franchise a bright future

West Midlands Franchise Oppotunties at WhichFranchise.com

A former panel beater from Hammerwich has beaten the retreat from his old career and is now his own boss in charge of the Mac Tools territory for Walsall.

Spencer Pallett’s new role takes him all over the area calling on garages and dealerships as a dealer for Mac Tools, a business which supplies tools and equipment to the automotive industry.

Spencer, who lives in Hammerwich with his wife Maria and their two children, Lincoln, six, and Hudson, three, says his fledgling business can only get bigger and better.

Spencer, 36, knew about Mac Tools through his local dealer, and when his knees begun playing up as the years on the shop floor started taking their toll, he decided on a career change.

He is learning quickly how to be a businessman. “I never thought that I would be doing anything like this, I’m learning all the time, and there’s still a lot of questions, but it has been great so far. The support I receive from Mac Tools head office is excellent.

“It’s been a really good start, and I know that it can only get bigger and better. It’s already starting to do that, with more sales coming in.

“I haven’t stopped working since I started this. Doing everything for the first time takes time but I’m loving every minute.”

Paul Clegg, Mac Tools recruitment manager, welcomed Spencer to the business. He said: “I am delighted that Spencer has decided to join Mac Tools. He has an excellent work ethic and brings a wealth of industry knowledge with him. We wish him every success for the future and look forward to helping him develop and grow his business.”

Long term confidence with McDonald's franchise

Thu, 06 Jan 2011 04:05:01 GMT

Long term confidence with McDonald's franchise

West Midlands Franchise Oppotunties at WhichFranchise.com

Afia sums up investing in a McDonald's franchise with one word: confidence. "Confidence that I have invested in a strong and relevant brand. Confidence that it's a brand which keeps close to its customers and understands that business never stands still.

Confidence in the fundamentals, with the most proven restaurant model in the world, delivering consistent quality, service and cleanliness. And, most of all, confidence that I've made the right decision."

"It's about being your own boss, but not being on your own. Knowing that your expertise and local touch is valued, and is central to the business. And knowing that you have the back up of the expertise and experience of a leading-edge brand. Whether it's award-winning training schemes, innovative marketing programmes, first-rate restaurant design or new, smarter ways of working, McDonald's is always on the front foot. I ran my own retail business for years, and I love that owning and operating a McDonald's franchise gives me the opportunity to put that hands-on knowledge to work, seeing the big picture, but never losing sight of the details."

Finding rewards with a ComputerXplorer's franchise

Thu, 10 Nov 2011 04:05:01 GMT

Finding rewards with a ComputerXplorer's franchise

West Midlands Franchise Oppotunties at WhichFranchise.com

Name: Stephen Hall, Co-owner ComputerXplorers Birmingham East

Commenced trading: 4.01.11

Previous occupation: Various sales roles

Stephen Hall, 35, was born in Omagh Northern Ireland, where he spent his childhood before moving to England in 1994, aged 18, to study for a Degree in Environmental Engineering at Sunderland University.

Stephen has been running ComputerXplorers Birmingham East with his partner, Fiona McGuigan since January 2011.

Career Background

After graduation in 1997 Stephen started working for a local pub company in

Middlesbrough before moving to Bolton to work for a national pub chain. He eventually managed the company’s flagship pub on Broad Street in

Birmingham.

“I really enjoyed the social side of the job and it’s where I met Fiona which was a big highlight.”

In 2003 Stephen decided to take a year out, to travel around Europe and Scandinavia, before returning to the UK to work for a national bowling and leisure venue in Birmingham.

After 3 years Stephen moved back home to Belfast where he worked in various sales roles, selling all manner of products from electronic cash systems to industrial storage systems. It was during this time that Stephen and Fiona decided that they’d like to move back to England and run their own business.

What made you decide to open your own business and why franchising?

“I ran the pubs and bowling venues as if they were my own business and that ethos was very much encouraged by management. On the downside you don’t really get the full reward for it so I always wanted to do something for myself.”

“I preferred the relative security of a franchise over opening an independent business from scratch.”

Why ComputerXplorers?

“I picked up What Franchise magazine at Birmingham airport when Fiona and I were flying back to Belfast and noticed ComputerXplorers. I’m a self confessed computer geek and love messing around with computers and new bits of software, so it’s right up my street.”

“The idea of combining my interest in ICT with having fun with kids really appealed to me.”

What happened next?

“We did a bit more research, met with the franchisor, Nigel Toplis, and went to see a class in action. That really sealed the deal. I wasn’t prepared for how brilliant the classes were and to see the children being so enthusiastic and absorbed really sold it to me.”

“We decided to set up ComputerXplorers Birmingham East and moved back to England on New Year’s Eve 2010, all ready for a New Year and a new start!”

How are things going?

“We planned for one of us working on the business and the other finding a job, but it’s taken off so quickly that we’ve both been full-time from the start.

We’re way ahead of our business target and have maintained our standard of living, which is pretty amazing for our first year in business.”

“It’s the best job I’ve ever had and I loved my other jobs! I never feel like I’m going to work.”

Would you recommend ComputerXplorers to potential franchise owners?

“Most definitely and I’ve already encouraged some prospects to go for it.

Teaching children is even more fun and satisfying than I thought it would be.”

“We get to work with children from all walks of life. For example we were recently asked to run cartoon-making sessions with children who visit hospital regularly. The aim is to make their visits more enjoyable, teach them some new skills and give them an outlet to express their feelings. It gives me such a buzz making a living doing something so worthwhile.”