elitefranchisemagazine.co.uk
Take it easy Flexible working isn’t about slacking off but balancing a career and family
Printing power Couple reinvent their careers as Minuteman Press franchisees
OCTOBER 2018 £4.50
Dancing on air
From Yorkshire to Canada, Claire O’Connor’s babyballet is teaching the joy of dancing globally
Come up roses
Endura Roses is the franchise giving flowers everlasting life
In the driving seat Ian McIntosh took on the challenge to bring RED Driving School back from the ashes and the business is now off to the races
In business for yourself, but not by yourself... As a McDonald’s Franchisee you’ll have the opportunity to build your own business, with the support of a global company currently celebrating 49 consecutive quarters of growth in the UK. You’ll have access to a wide range of resources including the support of an experienced Franchisee Consultant to advise you as your business develops. There’s no telling what the future will hold, but you’ll have the training and the support to make sure you make the most of our award winning system. Reema, Franchisee – North London
Come and talk to us at one of our Insight Days in 2018 5th - 6th October, Birmingham 19th October, Leicester 9th November, York 23rd November, Belfast 7th December, London Register your attendance at www.mcdonalds.co.uk/franchising
TheNational FranchiseExhibition
5 & 6 October 2018 | NEC, Birmingham
It’s time to be your own boss 100+ franchise brands | Expert one-to-one advice Business skills training | Inspirational speakers In association with:
Event sponsor:
Supported by:
Incorporating:
Book free tickets at FranchiseTickets.co.uk Untitled-2 1 392x270_Elite Advert.indd 1
24/09/2018 17:30
Save £15* use code ELT3
“At the exhibition, I found a company which reflected my main interest and whose ethos I felt a total affinity with.” Previous visitor Exhibitors at this event includes**:
FOR FIRE & SECURITY SOLUTIONS
*Terms and conditions apply. See website for details:
**Correct at time of press
Save £15 with code ELT3 Untitled-2 2
24/09/2018 17:31 13/09/2018 16:16
18
COVER STAR
Shifting gears
Ian McIntosh has always been spectacularly single-minded. Luckily, he’s used this focus since 2012 to steer RED Driving School towards a glorious future 6 elitefranchise | OCTOBER 2018
contents.indd 1
21/09/2018 16:47
contents 10.18
72
REGULARS 9 Welcome & contributors 11 News & events
105 Franchise diaries
Catching screen time
COLUMNS
Phones and tablets have revolutionised how franchisors recruit franchisees
13 Pip Wilkins 15 Sussanne Chambers 29 Frank Milner 33 Nigel Toplis 37 Tony Bowman 57 Chris Roberts
FEATURES 40 Flower power
Endura Roses is stalking success as a blossoming franchise
46 Remedy business headaches
Find the cure to the most common franchisor migraines
50 Baby steps
Claire O’Connor’s babyballet is taking the world by storm, one pirouette at the time
60 The power of planning Freestyling is no way to run a franchise. You need a business plan to succeed
78
78 In your own time
Is flexible working the future for franchising?
84 Don't stop the presses
The Minuteman franchisees who did everything in their power to stay in business
88 Cross-border franchising
Get the legal knowhow to grow abroad
46 OCTOBER 2018 | elitefranchise
contents.indd 2
7
21/09/2018 16:47
1 NEW SHOWROOM EVERY WEEK WORLDWIDE
SUCCESS FOR OVER 50 YEARS Schmidt Kitchens are the leading kitchen retail brand in Europe with a turnover of over â‚Ź472 Million and employ more than 1500 people. Since 1989 we have been developing an exclusive showroom concept and now have more than 700 showrooms spread around 25 countries.
Having been successful in France, Germany and Spain where we have exclusive showrooms, our strategy is now to further develop in the UK. Our aim is to distribute our products through a network of dealers who manage their own showroom in line with our concept while getting ongoing help, assistance and support from us: n
No franchise fee and no royalties.
n
No stock: Kitchens are delivered directly to the consumer.
n
No cash flow issues: Monies received before you pay for goods.
n
Exclusivity in your catchment area. We help with the search of premises, the staff recruitment and support to set up your business plan to finance your project with our bank partners.
n
8 weeks of theoretical and practical training to contribute to your success.
n
Monthly regional meetings to share experiences and best practices to improve your showroom performance.
WANT TO LEARN MORE? Request more information and start your very own lucrative career within the kitchen industry. For more information please contact: Rosalyn.hastings@groupe.schmidt Schmidt FP.indd 1
02/08/2018 16:40
welcome Volume 06 Issue 10 / 2018 EDITORIAL Zen Terrelonge Editor Eric Johansson Acting Web Editor Varsha Saraogi Junior Feature Writer Angus Shaw Editorial Assistant Yoana Cholteeva Editorial Intern editorial@cemedia.co.uk
Timing is everything
L
DESIGN/PRODUCTION Darren Marriott Head Designer Dan Humphris Designer Lizzie Thurgood Junior Designer production@cemedia.co.uk Dan Lecount Web Development Manager dan@cemedia.co.uk
ike creatures of the night going bump in the dark on Halloween, time is equally adept at creeping up on us without warning. So with moments ghosting by before we realise, it stands to reason to keep moving and take chances. Almost two decades as a franchising executive was enough for Awais Babar to shake things up and start a franchise of his own. With Endura Roses there have been thorny moments but his network now appears to be taking root. Elsewhere, Claire O’Connor has seized her time with both hands. The “Halifax girl” behind babyballet has relocated from Yorkshire to Canada with her family in a bid to grow her infant dance franchise internationally, building on her success in Australia. Finally, Ian McIntosh revels in keeping things moving – quite literally as the CEO of RED Driving School. Not one to shy away from tough times, he actively sought a company going through a rough patch and has successfully turned the franchise around, despite potholes along the way, to amass 1,500 franchisees.
SALES & MARKETING Jemma Tonge Senior Account Manager jemma.tonge@cemedia.co.uk Richard Smith Senior Account Manager richard.smith@cemedia.co.uk Taylor Blayney Account Executive taylor.blayney@cemedia.co.uk Ore Akinniranye Marketing Assistant ore@cemedia.co.uk CIRCULATION Amy Coleman Data Compliance Assistant amy.coleman@cemedia.co.uk ACCOUNTS Sally Stoker Finance Manager sally.stoker@cemedia.co.uk
■ ZEN TERRELONGE - EDitor
DIRECTOR Scott English Director scott.english@cemedia.co.uk Circulation enquiries: Channel Edge Media Call: 0124 567 3700 Elite Franchise is published by Channel Edge Media, 1st Floor, Regency House, 16 Victoria Road, Chelmsford, CM1 1NZ Copyright 2018. All rights reserved. No part of Elite Franchise may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form or by any means, without the prior written consent of the editor. Elite Franchise will make every effort to return picture material, but this is at the owner’s risk. Due to the nature of the printing process, images can be subject to a variation of up to 15%, therefore Channel Edge Media Limited cannot be held responsible for such variation. cemedia.co.uk
Contributors
2
3
4
Frank Milner
Varsha Saraogi
Kate Legg
Tony Bowman
In his monthly column, the CEO of Tutor Doctor had his say on how to showcase your brand at a franchise exhibition and the top tips to make the most out of it.
Our feature writer spoke to the founder of Endura Roses about the challenges and victories of growing a budding business and coming out smelling of roses.
Going overseas is a big step and Legg has the legal answers to your questions so your franchise skyrockets internationally without too many hurdles.
Cutting a franchisee off isn't the most pleasant experience but Bowman explains why the practice is sometimes necessary for the wellbeing of your franchise.
1
elitefranchisemagazine.co.uk october 2018 | elitefranchise
welcome.indd 1
9
24/09/2018 17:33
The mark of excellent care
“…it’s an opportunity to run a successful operation whilst to a high standard.”
You can become the next Caremark homecare franchise success story. for more information speak to our recruitment team on 01903 266392
www.caremarkfranchises.com caremarkfranchises.com Untitled-2 3
24/09/2018 17:34
news
bfa Chairman’s Charity Day raised over £7,000
The bfa is always encouraging collaboration between franchises. But doing that at the same time as raising money for a good cause is a great thing to behold. That was exactly what the bfa did on Thursday September 13 when it held its annual Chairman’s Charity Day. During the event franchises and franchise support organisations like D&T Chartered Accountants, Home Instead, London & Zurich and EnviroVent challenged each other in games such as human table football, inflatable gauntlets, go-karting and laser clay pigeon shooting. At the end of the day the people attending had raised over £7,000 for The Franchise Trust, the bfa’s charity. The organisation offers courses developing people’s business knowledge, skills and capabilities. Networking, fun and raising money for a good cause? Now that’s something to write home about.
Events Franchise Now Expo17/18 October 3
BY Eric Johansson
Dwyer Group becomes
Cardiff City Hall Cathays Park Cardiff CF10 3ND
The National Franchise Exhibition October 5 - 6 NEC, North Ave, Marston Green, Birmingham B40 1NT
The Franchise Future – Manchester October 18
1 Spinningfields Square, Manchester M3 3AP
bfa Prospective Franchisor Seminar Oxford October 30
The British Franchise Association, 85f Park Drive, Abingdon OX14 4RY
West Coast Franchise Expo November 2 - 4 Los Angeles Convention Center, 1201 S Figueroa St, Los Angeles, CA 90015, USA
bfa Empowering Women in Business November 15
Nottingham Belfry Hotel Mellors Way, Nottingham NG8 6PY
Companies changing their names is more common than you might think. For instance, Google used to be named BackRub and Pepsi originally used the moniker Brad’s Drink. And now Dwyer Group has added its name to the list by rebranding as Neighborly. The multi-brand franchisor announced the switch in mid-September after launching a platform in the US with the same name in 2017. The platform made all its brands – from Mr. Electric to Mr. Rooter – available to consumers in one place and encouraged franchisees from different brands to cross-market their services. “The rebranding reinforces our commitment to helping today’s consumers to easily connect with service provider experts to repair, maintain and enhance their homes and businesses,” says Jeff Meyers, vicepresident of international operations for Neighborly. What’s in a name, ey? From Anytime Fitness to énergie group, more gym franchises are riding the rising tide of people wishing to whip themselves into shape. And you can’t blame them – the 2018 State of the UK Fitness Industry Report estimates the UK sector to be worth £5bn. So it’s hardly surprising more chains are interested in making some serious gains in Blighty. The latest one to pump up its operations in the country is the Australian franchise Jetts Fitness. Having established five gyms in Britain since 2017, the franchisor announced in September it’s adding another two to the mix. Not only is this great news for fitness aficionados everywhere but it also speaks volumes about the potential of British franchising.
Jetts Fitness bulks up UK franchise
OCTOBER 2018 | elitefranchise
news.indd 1
11
24/09/2018 09:36
Join Century 21 UK as a franchisee and benefit from:
Additional earning through the SDL Group
Global brand presence
Continuous support & training
Market leading technology
If owning a C21 franchise sounds like it would be up your street, contact us today and you could be up and running in as little as 6 weeks!
ONE OF THE UK’S FASTEST GROWING FRANCHISE NETWORKS OVER 8000 OFFICES ACROSS 81 COUNTRIES!
United Kingdom
Untitled-2 3
0115 902 1002 opportunities@century21uk.com www.century21franchise.co.uk
24/09/2018 17:37
Pip Wilkins chief executive bfa
The importance of empowering fellow women in business Pip Wilkins, the CEO of the bfa , believes women should champion, empower and learn from one another
W
ith only 8% of influential nonexecutive roles being held by women, according to Cranfield School of Management, it’s important to celebrate success and push for more progression. That’s why for the past six years the bfa has been organising an annual women-only event to celebrate the successes of women in franchising. This November we’ll have up to 200 women attending, sharing inspiring stories about working against adversity and networking with other like-minded women. Formerly, this was restricted to women in franchising but this year it extends to empowering women in business in general, with key themes revolving around leadership, culture and wellbeing. Reaching out to our own network as part of a separate editorial campaign around the Empowering Women event, I’ve been wowed by the diverse range of incredible stories women have to tell about business and franchising. But Lesley Wallace, a Dream Doors franchisee and a multiple awardwinner – including Checkatrade’s Franchisee of the Year 2015 – recently shared insights that really spoke to me about how she had to overcome prejudices and misconceptions. She chose a complete career change in 2012. Formerly a music teacher specialising in teaching children with special needs, Wallace wanted to be her own boss. So she learnt the ropes
as a franchisee by taking the time to understand all the essentials for the job. Having been supported by her business development manager, Wallace managed to secure three clients in her first month, generating £25,000 in the process. Even though that was six years ago, she still occasionally feels like an outlier in the traditionally maledominated industry. “Turning up as a lone woman on a job can generate an interesting mix of reactions,” she said. Not only does she still get the odd raised eyebrow but also has to suffer through worse comments. “Turning up with a big heavy tool bag, you can still get the odd patronising remark: ‘Did you consider this? Did you consider that?’” Wallace revealed. How are these preconceptions handled? Rather than through any kind of conflict or awkwardness, Wallace simply presents her skills and knowledge: “I normally give them some piece of technical information in the first five minutes that they haven’t thought of.” Failing that, there’s always the more industrial option: “Or I just give them a really heavy tool bag to carry from my van – that can help to keep people a bit quieter.” Still, she wouldn’t change her life as a franchisee for the world. “I like being out and about and working
with people,” Wallace said. “I like having succinct projects to work on. I think underneath everything I like being a homemaker. I like to decorate my own home and I love all the before and after pictures for other people’s DIY projects. “I’ve always loved all that and I like helping other people find what’s right for them. I don’t think I’ll ever get bored of that.” It’s imperative women share their success stories in business and explain how they’ve overcome obstacles to become successful businesswomen. Wallace’s story is just one of many where there's something to shout about, so let’s keep making noise and empowering women in business. October 2018 | elitefranchise
column_bfa.indd 1
13
21/09/2018 11:49
make their
FUTURE your
BUSINESS
Are you looking for a career with all the rewards of helping children achieve and the independence of running your own business?
Kumon is the UK and Ireland’s largest supplementary education provider. As an independent business owner and the Instructor of your own Kumon Maths and English Study Centre, you will reap the rewards of developing children as you grow your business. We offer: • Thorough and transparent recruitment process • Low cost start-up fee • Support of a dedicated Area Manager • Comprehensive training programmes If you can demonstrate the educational skills and business acumen to succeed, this full-time opportunity could be for you. Apply now to attend an orientation meeting near you:
0800 854 714 www.kumon.co.uk
Untitled-2 1
08/01/2018 09:52
Sussanne Chambers founder and managing director HomeXperts
Dream team Whether you’re an elite athlete or just standing on the starting blocks for your business, it’s all about the team
recently read Jessica Ennis-Hill’s autobiography, which was an inspirational and fascinating read. What came across strongly throughout was how fundamental Team Ennis was in helping Jessica achieve her gold Olympic medal in 2012. So I started thinking about the team of people I have around me at HomeXperts and how invaluable they've been in the success of our franchise. Everyone needs a team of people backing them. Your home team, whether parents or partners, should be your biggest supporters. The home team roots for you - not causing stress or making life difficult. If the home team isn’t helping you move forward then it’s holding you back, which means it's time for an attitude change.
I
Your employees can make a huge difference. If you're starting your business from scratch then you can create a dream team by handpicking each member and building up a portfolio of relevant skills to help growth because every team needs variety – as tempting as it is to recruit mini me-type people. If you identify your strengths and weaknesses then you can recruit staff to fill in the gaps in your skills. Recognising the contribution each team member makes is fundamental in running a happy business. While everyone’s input may be at a different level, every cog in the wheel is equally important. Whether the employee is the CEO or an apprentice, the business needs each worker to do the job to the best of their abilities. Getting the most out of every recruit and recognising what motivates them is a whole different skill-set and worth spending some time and effort on.
In my past corporate career, one of my duties was to talk to every team member at least once a week - no mean feat with 180 staff. But as a result, this high-performing, fast-growing business kept a constant finger on the pulse of the team. They considered the time spent well worth the effort and we created an amazing team spirit that helped the company become one of the fastest growing in the UK. It may be a smaller team in your company but it’s still worth taking the time to discover what each individual’s ambitions are. Explore how these aspirations and goals can be channelled through the business for joint success. Being part of a winning team is one of the best feelings at work. Creating team goals and a shared sense of purpose can be intoxicating. It will really help deliver a rewarding work experience for everyone involved and, like Team Ennis, ultimately we all want to be part of a winning team.
OCTOBER 2018 | elitefranchise
column_S.Chambers.indd 1
15
21/09/2018 11:50
Franchise with us
Franchise with us
Shops, kiosks, drive thru and vending
Proven success in busy high street locations
Shops, kiosks, drive thru and vending
Great arabica blend coffee at great prices
Proven success in busy high street locations
Quality food options and great service
Great arabica blend coffee at great prices
Innovative equipment and smart technology
Quality food options and great service
Support and training from committed team
and smart technology JoinInnovative the orangeequipment coffee revolution Support and training from committed team the orange coffee revolution VisitJoin www.easy.coffee/franchise or call us on 0333
433 0311
Visit www.easy.coffee/franchise or call us on 0333
easyGroup_24_elite franchise dps_aw.indd 1
433 0311
Franchise Franchise with with us us
Franchise Franchise with with us us
AA new new storage storage service service that that costs costs less less
Nationwide Nationwide fitness fitness gyms gyms that that cost cost less less
Pack Pack || Collect Collect || Store Store || Access Access || Return Return
Industry-leading Industry-leading classes classes for for top top results results
AA competitive competitive new new business business model model
Membership Membership includes includes free free group group training training
AA growing growing market market with with great great potential potential
Premium Premium fitness fitness equipment equipment
Successfully Successfully launched launched in in London London
No No long-term long-term customer customer contracts contracts
Exciting Exciting opportunities opportunities throughout throughout the the UK UK
Friendly Friendly professional professional staff staff
Excellent Excellent support support and and expertise expertise
Top Top reviews reviews from from happy happy customers customers
Visit Visit our our website website or or call call us us on on
Visit Visit the the website website and and apply apply at at
0800 0800 061 061 4091 4091
www.easygym.co.uk/franchise www.easygym.co.uk/franchise
Shifting gears 18 elitefranchise | october 2018
cover story - October.indd 1
21/09/2018 12:33
Ian McIntosh
After pulling RED Driving School back from the brink, Ian McIntosh isn’t afraid his efforts will be for nought with the rise of driverless vehicles. Instead, he’s estimating a glorious future for the franchise’s roughly 1,500 franchisees and is actively leveraging tech like Instagram for a smooth ride BY Eric Johansson / photography by emilie sandy
R
ED Driving School needed to change with the times. When Ian McIntosh took over as CEO and bought 11% of the franchise in 2012 he had a huge undertaking at hand. Not only did he face the challenge of turning the failing business around but also had to hot it up to fit a rapidly transforming market where self-driving technology threatens to make his whole industry obsolete. However, his bullishness is almost palpable six years after the takeover. “We’ll be training people to drive cars for decades and decades,” he says. “I’m absolutely 100% confident about that.”And he has reason to be optimistic. Meeting Elite Franchise at 100 Wardour St, the swanky Soho bar, McIntosh claims RED Driving School, despite what the name may suggest, has been thoroughly in the black for more than two years. “It’s great, isn’t it?” he says. “When your mission has been to stop the cash flowing out and you reach the month where you’ve got a positive cashflow that’s a major turning point.” While he’s adamant the growth has been thanks to both the hard work of the franchisor and its franchisees, a lot of this success can be attributed to McIntosh’s love for a good challenge. “Life’s short,” he says. “Find something exciting to do that
stretches you and makes you want to get up in the morning and go to work. I guess it’s always been a little bit like that with me.” Indeed, as a young boy he became the only representative of East Yorkshire’s scouts at the 1971 World Jamboree. Never mind that he was only 14 at the time or that the event was held in Japan, McIntosh put his mind to raising the money and off he went. Despite the planned two weeks of camping being cancelled due to a typhoon he still enjoyed the experience, not to mention overcoming the hurdle of going there. “So there is a pattern there I suppose,” McIntosh shrugs. Similarly, after acquiring a master’s degree in management at University of Bradford in 1987, he found an apprenticeship at Mars Incorporated, the sweets and pet food manufacturer. “They would literally throw you in at the deep end and see how you’d get on,” McIntosh reveals. Unsurprisingly, given how he thrives when being challenged, McIntosh quickly proved his chops and was hired permanently. No doubt the experience had a huge impact on his future career. “In the years I worked there I did all sorts of amazing stuff
october 2018 | elitefranchise
cover story - October.indd 2
19
21/09/2018 12:34
job-wise that gave me a lot of skills but also a lot of confidence – some might argue over-confidence,” he laughs. In the following two decades he continuously challenged himself with a series of top executive roles. But by 2010 he felt that being the president of the west division of AAK, the vegetable oil company, wasn’t enough. “I was running North and South America and most of Western Europe and living on an airplane,” he says. “It was a great job and good money and so on but it wasn’t my business.” Indeed, this feeling of not being in it for himself kept growing. But rather than launching a startup from scratch, he began searching for a company to buy equity in. So over the next year he attended lots of meetings with private equity firms, looking for the perfect opportunity. As luck would have it, he was presented with three struggling companies searching for a new CEO. “I chose RED simply because it sounded like the most challenging opportunity as the business was really, really struggling,” he says. So what had gone wrong with RED? “It was simply mismanaged and ran out of cash,” states McIntosh. Although, it’s a little bit more complicated than that. Lansdowne Venture Group (LVG), which also owned Airport Driving School, launched the brand in 2004. While the company had been off to a reasonably good start, things went sour
We intrinsically forgive human error because we all make mistakes but how forgiving will you be when a robot kills somebody? around the time of the 2008 recession. For one thing, the financial downturn slammed the brakes on the demand for driving lessons, including the ones to become driving instructors, which was RED’s primary revenue source at the time. Moreover, up until 2009 Barclays had provided point-of-sale loans for training organisations like RED Driving School. However, the bank stopped the praxis around the recession. Additionally, McIntosh is critical towards the business’ old leadership. “It had been basically wasting money on things that weren’t necessary,” he says. “Spending far too much money on frivolous things and paying the directors money they hadn’t earned.” As a result, LVG went into administration in February 2010 and was subsequently bought by Kelso Place Asset Management, the private equity firm. “It bought it out of administration for next to nothing,” explains McIntosh. “They then spent another couple of years trying to fix the business.” By 2012 it was clear that the changes Kelso Place was looking to make weren’t happening fast enough and the firm began to look for a new CEO to spearhead the turnaround. “And that was when they parachuted me in,” he says.
Having accepted the offer, one of the first things McIntosh did was overseeing a strategic change in the model – from only training instructors to becoming a driving school for everyone. And it’s hardly a secret why the business suddenly changed lanes. “Teaching people to drive is a massive market,” he says. “So there’s a lot of customers to go at.” That being said, the company is still training instructors even though it’s not its main source of income, providing an additional revenue stream as well as a stable pipeline of potential franchisees that could join the network. “We teach our trainees to be driving instructors and we then invite them to join us as a franchisee,” he says. “They aren’t obliged to but you hope to win their hearts and minds that this is a good thing to do.” But to make the new direction work he had to convince the network’s franchisees to back it. “So from very early on I started travelling the UK and meeting the franchisees,” McIntosh says. However, those get-togethers were rarely fun and mostly consisted of instructors telling the new CEO about how they weren’t getting enough clients, that their cars were breaking down and offering long lists of other complaints. “The first couple of years were full of those sort of meetings,” he says.
20 elitefranchise | october 2018
cover story - October.indd 3
21/09/2018 12:34
Ian McIntosh
Unsurprisingly, with the unsatisfactory results provided by the previous franchisor, about a third of the old franchisees elected to exit the network. “There was a period where things got worse before they got better,” he says. Given the drain of franchisees and that RED Driving School was still haemorrhaging money, McIntosh isn’t afraid to confess to facing every day with a sense of having bitten off more than he could chew. “You know it’s going to be the same with any turnaround situation when you’ve got involved in a business that’s struggling,” he says. “The medicine is bound to be painful to take.” On the other hand, being in this desperate situation did have the benefit of easier decision-making – it was either do or die. “When it’s backs to the wall and cash is flowing out the door you need to stop it quickly, so decisions are made a lot more intuitively and with a lot less data and research,” he says. Two decisions would have a particularly huge impact on the business: raising the price and offering a quality of service that justified the cost hike. “What we want you as an instructor to do is to give great lessons.” he says. “You don’t sit at the road talking to save fuel. You turn up on time. If it’s a two-hour lesson you give two hours. You don’t drop students off early.” Still, some franchisees occasionally struggled to maintain the higher price, especially when clients asked if they could do a deal. While McIntosh is adamant every instructor is still free to negotiate their own prices with customers, he’s equally clear that it’s not ideal. “Before you know it your price has spiralled down to a point where you can’t make any money and this does happen,” he says. To avoid this situation from occurring RED Driving School is constantly teaching instructors how to respond when customers ask them for a special deal and to highlight what they’d get for the money. “It’s not cheap but it’s a fair price because we’re selling on value,” McIntosh reasons. Another change to the model was how the franchisor allocated students to instructors in an area. Essentially, whichever franchisee is at the top of the list gets the next client. Back in the day this service was free of charge, which was something McIntosh quickly changed. “If you get things for free, you value it less,” he says. The consequence of it being free was that some instructors felt they could skip lessons as there would always be a new client coming through the pipeline, an attitude that caused customer satisfaction to plummet. Instead, the franchisor opted to make the client allocation system something franchisees had to pay for. “If the franchisee paid the fee and then messed it up and gave a poor service, they didn’t get the fee back so it was going to cost them
money if they didn’t do a good job,” McIntosh explains. Not only did this reduce the number of complaints but also helped grow the number of referrals each instructor got from their own clients, meaning many opted out of the service as they could fill in their own schedules. To boost the franchise’s reach even further, McIntosh also devoted some marketing budget at finding ways to connect with potential clients. Recognising regular ads would be pointless for the industry, the franchise first focused on spreading word of mouth by providing a great service and secondly by finding ways to boost the franchise’s ranking on Google. “So we came up with the idea of teaching celebrities that will post and talk about us,” McIntosh says. And that was how Maisie Williams, the actress most famous for playing Arya Stark on HBO’s Game of Thrones, ended up taking driving lessons at RED Driving School in 2014. “And it worked really well,” he says. Since then the company has reached out to multiple celebrities and influencers and offerred them a similar deal. And slowly all these efforts paid off. “I think it was around Christmas 2014, when the turning point came where I could say that ‘we’re on the right path, we’re going to be okay,’” McIntosh recalls. However, they weren’t out of the woods yet. As January 2015 came along it became clear that RED Driving School wouldn’t be able to pay its VAT bill. Fortunately, the franchisor was able to negotiate a deal with the HMRC to pay it in instalments over the next few months, which meant in the spring of that year, the company had its first month with a positive cashflow in years. “We’ve never had a negative cashflow month again,” he says.
There was a period where things got worse before they got better october 2018 | elitefranchise
cover story - October.indd 4
21
21/09/2018 12:34
Ian McIntosh
In fact, he’s so bullish about the potential of RED Driving School that he’s not even worried about the rising threat of self-driving cars. Even though companies like Lyft, Uber and Waymo are all accelerating their efforts in putting autonomous vehicles on the roads, McIntosh believes people will still need driving licences for decades. “The technology is amazing but it’s a long way from being ready,” he says. Not only is he unsure about the tech being ready for complex road structures but he’s also sceptical about whether people would be forgiving to machines causing traffic accidents. “We intrinsically forgive human error because we all make mistakes but how forgiving will you be when a robot kills somebody?” he asks. The company is actually so confident about this that it put up an April Fools’ Day joke a few years ago saying RED Driving School would begin to offer driving lessons for self-driving cars. Although, not everyone got the joke. “You would be amazed about how many journalists call us to ask us about that,” McIntosh laughs. In fact, the copy was so convincing that even the PR agency the franchise worked with was fooled. “They’d had a change of staff and the new staff that weren’t around when we wrote the joke called and said, ‘what is this about the driverless lessons?’” he smiles. But despite not offering any lessons for autonomous vehicles, RED Driving School has still made waves. For instance, earlier this year it was named National Driving School of the Year at the FirstCar Awards 2018. “It’s always nice to be recognised in that way,” McIntosh says. As the business shifted into another gear and the support system grew, more budding franchisees began looking to join the network. And no matter who they are, RED Driving School is happy to consider them. “It can be absolutely anyone,” McIntosh says. “We get ex-forces, ex-police and older people who are looking to semiretire.” That being said, it’s not enough that prospective instructors pass the government exams, they also have to demonstrate that they’re buying into the culture and values of the franchise.
“Of course, occasionally someone isn’t just suitable and, whilst I’d rather not, we do terminate franchisees or there are trainees that we elect not to take on for various reasons,” he explains. “But it’s reasonably rare.” Not only has this attitude seen the network make up for the people who left the franchise but has also grown the number of franchisees to roughly 1,500 across the UK. And the CEO is expecting this number to increase in the years to come. “But I don’t want to grow in a crazy burst,” he says. “It’s got to be steady.” That doesn’t mean McIntosh is taking his foot off the accelerator. Instead, he’s revving up his engines to search for new opportunities to expand the company’s services. “We will continue to be a driving school but we’ve also started in the fleet driving market,” he says. “We’re now doing safety assessments for people who are driving in business.” Not only does this mean employers can be certain their fleet is in good hands but it also means they can offer it as a perk to employees. “We’ve just started this and so far so good,” he says. “We’ve won some accounts already but I think that in the next five years this will be a big, big growth area for us.” Moreover, he’s not ruling out taking the brand beyond Britain’s borders. “I’m going to the states in October to sniff around the American market,” McIntosh reveals. And that’s not the only one. “We’ve thought about Spain, Saudi Arabia and India but ultimately the focus is the UK,” he says. Having turned the business around and actively eyeing a road trip further afield, we can’t blame McIntosh for pressing the pedal to the metal to accelerate RED’s opportunities.
22 elitefranchise | october 2018
cover story - October.indd 5
21/09/2018 12:35
STAND OUT FROM THE CROWD TAKE CO N T RO L O F YO U R F U T U R E
H ome In s tead has be e n dis r u p tin g t he U K c are mar ket for 12 year s . Join an innovative network of over 190 offices, delivering quality care to older people in their own homes. • A n in n ovati ve bus i nes s model • 15 -2 0 % o per ati ng pro fi t • P rovid ing care the way clients and fami l i es want it • Awa rd wi nni ng s uppor t
C O NTACT U S TO DAY www.homeinstead.co.uk/franchise 01925 730 273 franchise@homeinstead.co.uk Each Home Instead Senior Care® franchise office is independently owned and operated. Copyright © Home Instead 2018.
Untitled-2 3
24/09/2018 17:42
ADVERTISING FEATURE
From fighting fires in his own business to helping others put out their flames Marc Eccles loved the service so much as a client, he bought the franchise
M
arc Eccles has spent 30 years as a business owner, experiencing all the ups and downs. Now, he enjoys a quiet time down the pub with a book – although it didn’t start like that. It all began when Eccles was running his electrical business and happened to meet Action Coach Kent Rhodes at a BNI meeting. “My electrical business was a bit of a roller-coaster ride. In 2009, I was invited to a networking meeting and met Kent Rhodes,” Eccles remembers. “I liked him and the idea of having someone help me work on the business and the thought of having someone as a sounding board really appealed to me. “I began to take control of the business with Kent’s help and a couple of years later I went to see ActionCOACH global founder Brad Sugars speak at an event. He inspired me to become a business coach. After 20 years of being a business owner, I knew I could use ActionCOACH’s systems
Coaching clients to success
24 ELITEFRANCHISE | OCTOBER 2018
to help other business owners to succeed like Kent had helped me.” Eccles’ business was in better shape but his Action Coach wanted to ensure it was would be able to operate without him before he moved on to a new venture. “He insisted I take the business to a place where I could comfortably step out,” he says. “I recruited a new operations manager in 2015 and, once they were up to speed, I launched my ActionCOACH business in East Anglia in January 2016. I still own the electrical business.” Starting a new chapter “Six years of being coached by one of the most highlyrespected ActionCOACH franchisees was great training to become a business growth coach but, of course, I still went through the formal franchise training too,” Eccles says. “I decided to put my clients first to help them achieve their goals and change lives, rather than put the growth of my business first – their achievements would ultimately make my business a success. “Finding your feet during the first 12 months of the business is important. I had aimed to grow to £6,000 a month through client bankings as I was still working part-time on my electrical business. I got my first clients through networking
ADVERTISING FEATURE
Marc with fellow franchise partners Tanya Hill and Kent Rhodes
with BNI and using ActionCOACH’s exclusive client generation centre. I hit my goal by month six and continued coaching at that level until the end of the year while my other business took time to bed down.” Eccles then went on to create a networking group of his own. He wanted to attract smaller businesses who would eventually grow into group coaching and one-to-one coaching clients. “I love the idea of a low investment group coaching session that combines learning with a fun social environment and a bit of networking,” he says. “My BookCLUB happens once a month in a local pub where we eat, drink and socialise whilst reviewing the professional development book I’ve chosen the month before. We now have 21 people in the BookCLUB paying £100 a month, which is also free to attend for my one-to-one clients. We review books like Jim Rohn’s Seven Strategies for Wealth & Happiness, Brad Sugars’ Buying Customers and Robert Kiyosaki’s Rich Dad Poor Dad. The BookCLUB was an old ActionCOACH product which wasn’t being used by coaches. I feel that I have brought it back to life in the UK and as a result there was an increased interest in the product from coaches globally as there is a call to include this into their product ladder with the right marketing strategy. It also goes to show how the UK franchisor is open to great ideas from their franchisees.”
I have my BookCLUB, 12 group-coaching clients and 11 one-to-one coaching clients generating monthly bankings of over £20,000. I employ Georgia as my PA and events manager and we both work from our office in Orsett, Essex. During 2018, I’ve made it into the Top 100 Global ActionCOACH list and received the award for Best Client Results in East Anglia. I may have got off the roller-coaster ride with my electrical business but I still enjoy the thrills of being a business owner.” Eccles has four one-to-one client spaces available which is scheduled to increase his bankings by another £10,000 a month, whilst still fitting in with only working Tuesdays to Thursdays. “I have always been a workaholic and put work first,” he says. “I met my wife, Lisa, when I was 17 and we’ve been married 26 years. ActionCOACH has made me realise the importance of having a good work-life balance. Lisa has seen me fighting fires at work with no form of work-life balance. Now, I take the time off to spend quality time with Lisa by flying over to our second home in sunny Spain. “This year I celebrated my 50th birthday and I’ve dedicated to fundraise for the Alzheimer’s Society throughout the year to celebrate it. I’ve literally given myself some mountains to climb – The Northern Three Peaks plus the beautiful cliff walk over the Seven Sisters in the South Downs. I have also been putting on events such as golf days and dinner dances with Georgia’s help.”
Fundraising for the Alzheimer’s Society
Writing his own future “I have three coaches – Kent continues to be my business coach, driving my eldest daughter Georgia and myself to build the best ActionCOACH business,” says Eccles. “Moreover, ActionCOACH UK performance director James Vincent has been coaching me since July and I attend all the MasterCLASSes put on by Brad Sugars. Their support has ensured my clients succeed through my personal and professional development which, in turn, has made my business grow. “Two and a half years into my ActionCOACH business,
If you have a passion to make a difference and you’re the kind of person who loves learning and developing yourself, has enjoyed success in your career or sport and is willing to invest if you see substantial returns will be made, then find out more by watching the overview video at actioncoach.co.uk/overview
OCTOBER 2018 | ELITEFRANCHISE
25
Take control of your future with the UK’s leading mobile coffee franchise. CALL 0113 232 0118 FOR MORE INFORMATION.
the best part of your day! @Cafe2ULtd
Untitled-2 3 cafe2u_advert.indd 1
facebook.com/Cafe2uUK
www.cafe2u.co.uk
24/09/2018 17:45 23/05/2018 12:14
BECOME OUR NEW F R A N C H I S E PA R T N E R
IN THE UK JOI N A GLOBA L FURN I TURE DE SIGN BRAND, OFFER I NG A STRONG FRANCH I SE CONCEP T From Denmark to the world since 1952, BoConcept specializes in premium quality interior design for the cosmopolitan-minded customer. With over 25 years of franchise experience, and more than 300 stores in 65 countries, BoConcept is an established and proven Retail Franchise system, offering an attractive business model. The strong toolbox, and the outstanding support within all areas of business and retailing, make easy the setup and management of a BoConcept store. Therefore, most of our partners own multiple stores. LOOKI NG FOR FRANCHI SE PARTNERS TO COVER THE FOLLOWI NG AREAS: North West (Chester, Liverpool) | South West (Exeter) | South Coast (Bournemouth, Winchester) | East Midlands (Leicester, Nottingham)
F O R F U R T H E R IN F O R M AT IO N : B O C O N C E PT.C O M/F R A N C H IS E | F R A N C H IS E @B O C O NCEPT. COM
AD Franchise UK half page.indd 1
21/08/2018 13.30
Could you help fix the ‘Catch up Crisis’? Mathnasium Learning Centres use a unique method of assessment and teaching designed to help children catch up, keep up and get ahead in maths. It’s a huge opportunity in a rapidly growing market, and this could be your chance to get involved. Owning your own Mathnasium Learning Centre Franchise could be the most rewarding move you ever make.
Contact us now on 0161 791 0686 email ukfranchise@mathnasium.com or search Mathnasium UK Franchise to find out more
The Incredible Ice Cream Company - October Advertorial.indd 1
24/09/2018 18:00
Be
the
boss
Long to wake up and do something you believe in?
We grow the veg, you grow your business! Partner with an innovative, established brand. Run an ethical home delivery business to be proud of Share your passion for outstanding organic veg
Want to find out more?
Call 01803 227 380 or email franchise@riverford.co.uk or visit www.riverford.co.uk/franchise
Frank Milner CEO Tutor Doctor
Avoiding the post-show blues Going to a franchise exhibition is an exciting experience. But don’t do it on the fly really think things through to get the most out of it s a franchisor, some of the most significant events in the calendar are franchise exhibitions. Showcasing your brand alongside your team is very exciting but it’s all too easy to get caught up in the buzz. Networking and gettogethers with fellow franchisors and prospects alike are fun. But remember that every marketing activity should be measured by ROI and franchise exhibitions are no different. In fact, it’s likely one of the biggest expenditures of the year. Don’t be left thinking, “was it really worth it?” Avoiding post-show blues comes down to having a solid framework in place beforehand so your process afterwards is simple and effective. If you create a robust criteria for your future franchisees to meet, picking them out from the crowd is uncomplicated. Firstly, target those that fit your mould – whatever that may be – as they are the ones who, in theory, will achieve the biggest success. Less-experienced franchisors may assume these best-fit prospects will come knocking on the door after the event but no matter how confident they seemed on the day, people often leave a show feeling overwhelmed. It’s nice to think people will come back to you after the exhibition but take it from someone who’s been around the block a few times – it’s never that simple. It’s your responsibility to connect and interact with people you met. Get them on the phone, answer any questions they have – there will be plenty, I’m sure
A
– and invest your time in building a relationship to genuinely bond with them. People must feel that you’re invested in them before they commit to following you. You’re not the Pied Piper – you need to do the chasing. For a prospective franchisee, an exhibition is the perfect place to get a better understanding of a franchisor. It’s your chance to meet stakeholders, get your hands on products or scrutinise services and get a visual take on the brand. But it’s a lot to absorb and can be hard to digest afterwards. If you’ve spent the day in a vast hall brimming with investment opportunities but still somehow feel like you’re no closer to making your mind up, don’t panic. It’s perfectly normal to experience a little of your own post-show blues. My advice is to take everything you received and begin to categorise your options. Dissect the information and break down each aspect: is the franchise owner-operator or management style? Home-based or premises-based? Community-focused or a B2B-service offering? Does it realistically reach your financial aspirations? You may have entered the exhibition thinking you wanted to research a certain sector or even a specific brand but listing things out methodically can bring a whole
new perspective. You may potentially fall upon an opportunity that wasn’t initially on your go-to list but tick a lot of boxes. It’s likely that soon afterwards, you’ll be comparing one or two similar franchise opportunities. But I’ll bet you one of them just feels right. I’m saying go with your gut. Your instinct is usually on the money and that’s the moment when the real magic starts to happen. As a good example, you might think an education background is paramount to being a Tutor Doctor franchisee, but 80% of our network have no prior education industry experience. We nurture individuals who believe in our company values and epitomise what it means to be a franchisee. That’s how you should make your decision – find a business concept that really captures your attention and fills you with excitement when thinking about being your own boss. Whether you’re a franchisor or a franchisee, it’s safe to say exhibitions are a great way to meet the cream of the crop all in one place. The trick to success rests equally on what you do afterwards as it does what you do on the day. When planned and followed up well, instead of asking ‘was it all worth it?’, franchisors and franchisees alike can reap the benefits for years to come. october 2018 | elitefranchise
column_F.Milner.indd 1
29
21/09/2018 10:57
ADVERTISING FEATURE
Survival of the fittest Evolving industry trends and shifts in consumer demand mean franchises must stay on top of their game to remain relevant. Recognised for our approach to innovation, énergie Fitness continues to sit at the forefront in fitness franchising, adapting our model to meet the increasing demands of gym-goers Introducing innovation into our gyms Having launched our first franchised fitness club in 2003, we’ve seen the fitness industry evolve and grow over the last 15 years, consistently refining our model to stay ahead of the curve. As part of a global brand refresh, last year we began to introduce our new signature training concept; ‘thé YARD Club Edition’ into our énergie Fitness gyms. Since its debut in August 2017, thé YARD has become a huge hit with members and now features in 14 clubs across the network with plans for another 18 YARD installations before the end of the year. Constructed by our very own fitness training and development team, thé YARD Club Edition offers all-inclusive, high-intensity boutique classes, which transform the way members train and in turn significantly diversifies the complete gym experience for our members. Designed as group sessions, thé YARD Club Edition classes have been built perfectly to offer a style of workout that you simply won’t find in other large budget or 24-hour gyms. This development has meant we were also able to bring a boutique-style experience which has seen such high demand across the UK directly into our gyms to offer an allinclusive health and fitness package.
30 ELITEFRANCHISE | OCTOBER 2018
énergie Fitness Franchisees, Rob Francis and Claire Banbury opened their énergie Fitness club in April this year and have experienced first-hand the added value thé YARD brings to their club. Francis comments: “Ever since we opened we have been overwhelmed with the incredible response and impact that thé YARD has had on our members. It is constantly the main focus on our social media and certainly drives the most engagement. The classes are thriving, members definitely recognise that this is something they can’t get elsewhere.” Diversifying the gym experience The development of thé YARD has been backed by research and science, with the model meeting the top six fitness trends for 2017 and 2018 according to the American College of Sports Medicine. Seeing a demand for quick, high-intensity and inclusive training – our three key YARD classes have been built to incorporate top of the range equipment, simple boxing combinations, plyometric exercises and suspension training moves to maximise your effort levels in an ascending pyramid timing format. Members also have the opportunity to use Myzone technology for fitness tracking during each class. Live streaming results into the class and sending data direct to the Myzone mobile app, members are encouraged to keep on top of their game during every workout, even encouraging an element of competition between each class participant. A key component of our YARD Club Edition concept is our extensive coaching structure behind it. Developed to ensure our staff members are fully trained on the precise and unique delivery of the programme, our franchisees’ teams across the network can confidently deliver a series of classes for maximum results and a great member experience. The result of this particular innovation for énergie Fitness is a
ADVERTISING FEATURE
high-performing product which rivals the UK’s most popular boutique classes – minus the extra pay-as-you-go cost. Building on Innovation In addition to thé YARD Club Edition, our brand’s innovation included the introduction of dedicated in-club hosts. This followed Mintel’s 2017 industry report which highlighted that half of gym-goers experienced a lack of communication from gym staff during their time in the club. By introducing club hosts to cater to the missing ingredient that stems from the unstaffed structures of today’s large budget and 24-hour gyms, we’re able to ensure that every member is welcomed on arrival, let them know that they have a point of contact and provide them with a VIP member experience on every visit.
Taking customer service one step further, a more recent division of our in-depth training curriculum is our Take the Stage programme. Designed by our very own training team at énergie Central, Take the Stage was born with an objective of helping franchisees and club staff shine in their individual roles. With a dedicated training team delivering and implementing the programme in all its fun, quirky and innovative glory, every club is encouraged to ‘take the stage’ on a daily basis, putting a unique spin on customer service for members. Why franchise with énergie Fitness? When you franchise a gym with énergie Fitness, you’re partnering with a brand that has been empowering people to transform their lives since 2003. From business planning and property acquisition through to ongoing marketing and operational support, we pride ourselves on offering a comprehensive gym franchise package that gives our franchisees all the tools they need for success. Best of all, you don’t need a previous interest in health and fitness to be a success with énergie.
To find out more about joining a forward-thinking franchise at the cutting-edge of the industry, visit www.energiefranchise.com or call 0845 363 1020.
OCTOBER 2018 | ELITEFRANCHISE
31
Secured success! Secured success! With Europe’s leading
With Europe’s leading EMS fitness studio concept! EMS fitness studio concept! EMS is the buzzword in the fitness scene - being one of the most dynamic segments of the industry across Europe. Take this opportunity, as a franchisee of the system that has been the clear market EMS is the buzzword in the fitness scene - being one of the most dynamic segments of the industry leader across the continent for over 10 years. No other EMS franchise system can offer you so much across Europe. Take this opportunity, as a franchisee of the system that has been the clear market experience and support from the outset: location search, leasing and financing, employee training, leader across the continent for over 10 years. No other EMS franchise system can offer you so much business administration and marketing - plus loads more. experience and support from the outset: location search, leasing and financing, employee training, administration and marketing - plus loads more. members and delivering over business With Bodystreet having nearly 300 studios, some 37,000 150,000 training sessions per month; it is easy to see what is coming our way. With Bodystreet having nearly 300 studios, some 37,000 members and delivering over 150,000 sessions per month; it isis easy tohave see what is coming our way. Be at the training start — with the business that set to the fitness industry in the UK buzzing. Be at the information start — withvisit the our business that is set to have the fitness or industry the UK buzzing. For more website: www.bodystreetuk.co.uk email in franchise@bodystreet.co.uk For more information visit our website: www.bodystreetuk.co.uk or email franchise@bodystreet.co.uk
Untitled-2 3
24/09/2018 18:06
Nigel Toplis managing director The Bardon Group
Penny for your thoughts? Nigel Toplis is very sceptical when dealing with experts in the business of advising how to run a business when by and large they’ve never run a traditional company or a franchise. Still he admits it can be necessary sometimes
owever you feel about external advice, when it comes to deciding about investing in the franchise of your choice it’s time to call in the professionals – yes, the accountants, the solicitors and possibly the banks. Despite my in-built sangfroid it’s absolutely essential to take professional advice if only for two basic reasons. Firstly, there will be a legal franchise agreement to sign and you need to understand exactly what obligations you’re taking on. Furthermore, you‘ll need an experienced franchise lawyer to advise you. Under no circumstances should you use a lawyer with little experience of franchising. We all have a mate who has a friend who did their divorce or house conveyancing – don’t use them. The franchise agreement is a specialist document, so you need someone with experience in that field to advise you. Secondly, you’ll be investing a considerable amount of money into the franchise so you should involve an accountant. It’s always good to have an extra pair of eyes – particularly
H
a sceptical pair – to look over your business plan and ensure your projections are reasonable, all costs are included and you've been realistic about your income generation. It’s also important from the franchisor’s point of view that you take advice as it shows them you’re serious. Indeed, successful and highly motivated franchisees enhance the franchisor and its brand. Your support team of professional advisors will help you understand the small print, access investment opportunities and evaluate your business plans but you need to find out how much they charge and what you get for your money. But remember advisors are only as good as your brief and at the end of the day the decisions must be yours. Along with professional advisors don’t forget your family – they can often be a great source of advice and offer an insight about yourself that external advisors simply can’t match. Take a step back and review all the information gathered about the franchise and yourself to go through a mental checklist. Are you up to running this business? Can you
afford it? Will you be able to take the pressure? Are you confident in the franchisor? Will you and your family enjoy the challenge? Do you want it? Finally, the key to making the right decision over a business investment is not rush it. Don’t get lured into making illconsidered decisions and beware the pushy franchisor who denies you the time to do your research and properly consult independent experts.
october 2018 | elitefranchise
column_N.Toplis.indd 1
33
21/09/2018 11:29
ADVERTISING FEATURE
The Ovenu franchise is practical, professional and personable It’s nice to be appreciated and, over the past few years, our clients have appreciated the efforts of our professional and personable franchisees
W
e’ve now amassed over 20,000 reviews and testimonials from delighted clients right across the UK and this clearly shows us that we’re doing many things right. And this is great news for anybody looking at getting the best ovenvaleting training available in our purposeful and practical facility. Moreover, to ensure we cover all aspects of becoming the best in the business we’ll also include training in real clients’ homes. Being correctly trained inevitably leads to quality cleans being produced time after time and an ever-growing volume of satisfied customers. This generates continuity of profitable business as the success cycle continues to roll. Although, what’s important to understand is that cleaning ovens to the highest possible standards is only one half of the training and ongoing support provided by the Ovenu team. The other half is being taught in a very professional and practical way just how to run a profitable, local business. This will involve learning things like advertising, marketing and promoting the business in a local area to dovetail with all of the national marketing that’s already in place, including TV. We’ll also teach new franchisees all about our internal business working systems so all of our franchisees’ local businesses are run within all of the legal guidelines and that clients’ personal data is kept safe and secure in a GDPR-compliant way.
There’s a lot to learn as an Ovenu franchisee but it’s all for a good cause as the rewards following induction training can be substantial. Our bespoke business launch campaigns can generate dozens of high-quality leads in a matter of a few days – many franchisees see their first bookings being made before they have left the full weeks training course. A campaign in September 2018 saw a new franchisee schedule over £2,000 of confirmed bookings within 48 hours of completing the training course. Naturally delighted, the newly signwritten and equipped van’s owner soon returned home to put all of the newly learned skills into practice.
Payments on completion quickly followed to prove our every day is pay day principle and we’re sure there will be many more pay days to follow very soon indeed.
Contact us today to find out more. Call 01189 743911 or register your interest at ovenufranchise.co.uk
34 elitefranchise | OCTOBER 2018
Ovenu Advertorial - October.indd 1
24/09/2018 15:36
CCKK VV! ! BBAAN TT OON
Ovenu - a business where every property is a prospect
The UK's favourite network of oven valeting Franchisees. Why should you consider becoming one of them? In depth oven valeting and business operation training no experience necessary Exclusive territory Large support network Over 25 years experience Your choice of white van Bespoke cleaning products no one else can deliver our results Complete control of your own work schedule Get involved from ÂŁ4,995 + VAT
Benefit from 20,000+ client reviews & testimonials for our specialist service Find out more 01189 743 911 or via ovenufranchise.co.uk OvenU October.indd 1
24/09/2018 17:17
ARE YOU LOOKING FOR A FRANCHISE OPPORTUNITY IN IRELAND OR SCOTLAND? Our recruitment franchise could be what you’re looking for Law Staff Legal Recruitment is an award-winning legal recruitment company situated in Cambridgeshire. Established in 2002 by Marcus Stevens, our Company Director, the business has grown over 16 years and now employs over 25 members of staff, ranging from experienced Recruitment Consultants to our exceptional Recruitment Assistants and Marketing Executives, including an excellent accounts team. We operate from our own bespoke database system, with over 25,000 registered candidates actively seeking new employment opportunities in the UK alone. We pride ourselves on our strong brand and commitment to excellent service, working with top tier ‘Magic Circle’ firms, through regional heavyweights to the smallest niche practices. Each one is awarded the same level of specialist attention to ensure we are recruiting the right person for the vacancy. Working collectively we ensure that we produce tailored campaigns catering for individual client’s needs. As we expand in 2018 we are looking for exceptional people to help build on our success, expanding our brand into Ireland and Scotland. Get in touch if you are ready for that next step in owning your own piece of this incredible business.
Why choose a Law Staff franchise? Low set up cost
Continual support
Fantastic earning potential
Experienced Training given
Start working from home!
Flexible working
W: www.law-staff.co.uk T: 01954 208062 E: psweeney@law-staff.co.uk Law Staff.indd 1
24/09/2018 17:48
Tony Bowman managing director etyres
Why franchise termination will always be part of our industry Calling it quits to any relationship is never easy. But sometimes it’s the best thing to do for a franchise
E
ven in the very best franchises it’s occasionally necessary for the franchisor to terminate a franchisee who isn't operating their business correctly. Termination can be effected in two ways. First, the franchisor can elect not to renew a franchisee at the end of the term of the franchise agreement. This will usually be every five years. The franchisor obviously has to show good reasons for the decision because most franchise agreements contain the presumption of a right to renew on the part of the franchisee. The second method of termination is during the term of the agreement. This nuclear option is obviously the last resort and before such drastic action is taken a professional and ethical franchisor will need to have exhausted every other possibility. These will include identifying the problem areas, advising, guiding, retraining, mentoring and allowing time to improve. Nevertheless, all this sometimes fails to correct the problem and when that point is reached the franchisor must be brave enough to take positive action and carry out the termination. This is in spite of the fact it’s likely to have negative as well as positive consequences. The positives that can come from a termination are that a seriously underperforming franchisee can in time be replaced with someone who will follow the franchise model properly and try harder. If the terminated franchisee is bringing the brand into disrepute it will send a positive signal to the rest of the network. If they’ve failed to follow safety procedures it can protect the franchisor from a corporate
legal prosecution or, in a worst case scenario, even a corporate manslaughter charge. If a badly performing franchisee is continually undermining the efforts of the franchisor to develop and grow the business, it’s generally better they cease to be a part of the business. Removing a constant troublemaker is almost always positive for any business. Unfortunately, some of the negative consequences of a termination can be serious. If they are so minded, franchisees who have been terminated have a variety of ways in which they may retaliate. These include taking legal action, which is made easier by the numerous ambulance-chasing lawyers who operate in the franchising industry. In a worst-case scenario, this could trigger a class action involving other franchisees. Lesser damaging retaliatory action can come in the form of adverse social media. Sometimes lots of it and for a long time. This can be very damaging for trading and also for the recruitment of new franchisees. Thankfully in well-run franchises, terminations are infrequent. The success of each franchise is a common goal shared by both sides but unfortunately the reality is that some franchisor-franchisee partnerships will break down. For that reason terminations will, regrettably, always remain part of our industry.
october 2018 | elitefranchise
column_T.Bowman.indd 1
37
21/09/2018 11:30
ADVERTISING FEATURE
Why the Incredible Ice Cream Company gave up franchising A
s meetings go, it started off quite normally. The Incredible Ice Cream Company has been around for ten years or so, but franchising was a new venture to them which seemed like the ideal way to expand their business across the UK. This particular meeting was just one of the regular weekly meets of senior management to review business activity, set short and medium-term goals. All very normal and routine. Until it wasn’t.
The Incredible Ice Cream Company had already invested a lot of time into their franchise model. They’d written their franchise agreement, created the operations manual, designed the training program, devised great USPs such as a reducing their fees as franchisees became more successful, created financial models and committed to marketing contracts. Everything was going well and the database was filling with leads - the goal of selling 20 franchise territories by the end of 2019 looked eminently feasible. So it was a bit of a surprise when they decided to ditch the whole thing and start again. It was even more surprising that everyone at the meeting had been thinking along the same lines for weeks and had, quite independently, decided to pitch the idea of ditching franchising at the same meeting. The problem everyone had noticed was that the deal being offered to franchisees just didn’t feel right. It was a good deal, no doubt, and one born of the Incredible Ice Cream Company’s desire to operate a highly ethical business. The territories were generously large, the fees moderate and geared towards rewarding success. The systems were all easy-to-use, consumables were all environmentally conscious and the head-office support second to none. But it had a flaw – their franchise offering was similar to everyone else’s and had inherited all the associated norms that entailed, but those norms didn’t perfectly suit the nature of the Incredible Ice Cream Company’s actual day-to-day business. Potential franchisees were talking to the company and it soon made the conceptual problem all too apparent to the management team. The concept of exclusive franchise territories was too limiting, so they decided to scrap it completely. Also, the minimum monthly franchise fee – the traditional carrot and stick used to make sure franchisees don’t sit on their hands doing nothing – wasn’t ideal because franchisees thought of ice cream as
38 elitefranchise | OCTOBER 2018
The Incredible Ice Cream Company - October Advertorial.indd 1
24/09/2018 15:39
ADVERTISING FEATURE
a decidedly seasonal venture – it isn’t, by the way – and therefore the monthly fee as a risky commitment during the low season. Finally, some franchisees wanted to exploit their existing network of contacts to participate in events they knew would be outside of their territories, but by doing so could fall foul of their legal obligations. These barriers needed to come down. There was little doubt the Incredible Ice Cream Company could sell franchises on traditional terms, but there was also clear these restrictions weren’t, ultimately, in anyone’s best interests. So, the franchise agreement went into the bin and the new franchise model was born. The new franchise concept is a lease to use the franchise’s stunning, crowd-enticing bars, intellectual property and trademarks for five years. The business will operate without geographic boundaries and without a financial penalty for increasing revenues. To understand why this model was created, it’s necessary appreciate that the Incredible Ice Cream Company operates its bars at events all across the UK. These events range from parties, weddings, street fairs and festivals throughout the summer, to private parties and corporate events all year round. The reason the bars are so successful is because the way they pull crowds wherever they go – they are true show-stoppers. Our potential franchisees have a mixed-bag of preferences and ideas. While some want to focus almost
exclusively on weddings and private parties, others want to hit the road and do some festivals. Still others already own an events company and want to add the Incredible Ice Cream bar to their repertoire. And that’s not to mention the enquiries from tourist attractions who wanted a static Incredible Ice Cream Bar as an extra profit centre. It seemed obvious with hindsight that the original franchise agreement would be too limiting, so new terms were drawn up: the bars will be sold on a five-year lease, franchisee’s could either pay up front or use finance available through the franchisor. It includes an Incredible Ice Cream Bar with all hardware, training and support needed with £2,000 worth of ice cream and consumables thrown in to start things off. No exclusive geographic territories means you’re free to roam the UK and make money anywhere you want. Consumables easily ordered from Incredible Ice Cream Company approved suppliers, when required, online. No percentage of
revenue taken as a franchise fee – what you earn is yours to keep. A franchise agreement would still need to exist in order to set out reasonable terms of business, protect The Incredible Ice Cream Company’s IP and trademarks, but by taking franchisees off the leash they hope to see not only a surge in enquiries, but also to make sure those franchisees have the freedom to build a great business and make a generous living from it too. This somewhat turns franchising on its head, but now it has a flake in it.
For further information please visit incredibleicecream-franchise.co.uk
OCTOBER 2018 | ELITEFRANCHISE
39
Endura Roses
Flower
power By Varsha Saraogi
Awais Babar’s business idea stemmed from a gap in the floral industry he believed desperately needed watering and, despite embarking on a thorny path, he’s making Endura Roses a blooming franchise
T
he Manchester bombings in 2017 didn’t just devastate locals of the Northern city – people across the UK and around the world were left shocked and grief-stricken by the attack. Nothing could reverse the trauma faced by the families who suffered a loved one’s death. However, there was something that comforted them during those times and Awais Babar, founder of Endura Roses, the flower preservation franchise, was the reason behind it. “We gave all 22 families [affected] our fresh roses that last forever and watching them get a moment of peace was worth every challenge I went through,” Babar remembers. “Making millions of pounds is good but giving people something that will stay for their entire lifetime is something else altogether.” And this is what drove him to leave his 16-year run as a consultant for fast-food franchises and turn to flowers. Reaching that level of recognition just one year after opening the first store in 2016 was no bed of roses for Babar. Launched in 2015, Endura Roses stemmed from
a dilemma he faced as a father fulfilling the routine of bringing gifts home for his daughters following business trips. Cosmetics and chocolates no longer took his fancy. While glancing at the stores in an airport four years ago, a high-end flower shop piqued his interest. But much to his dismay they all looked shrivelled and on their last legs. “Nothing showcases your emotions like flowers but not when they look tired,” he says, adding this was his eureka moment as he realised the floral industry needed new seeds to be planted. Feeling existing flower sellers were out of touch, Babar didn’t desire to go down the same path as the traditional flora market. “High street and luxury bouquet stores with fancy displays are getting wiped out and are struggling because they don’t have the prices that a Tesco or Sainsbury’s has and the products aren’t too different,” he says. “So that was a no-go for me.” Artificial flowers were also out of the question for the environmentalist – his vision was to preserve the freshness and fragrance of flowers forever. “I wanted to revolutionise the industry in a way that a customer
40 elitefranchise | october 2018
One to watch.indd 1
21/09/2018 12:23
could pluck a flower from the garden and keep it beside a preserved one and be unable to tell the difference,” he details. For his idea to bloom, Babar had to embark on a journey filled with thorns – figuratively and literally – as he travelled to Ecuador, Colombia, Japan and even Kenya to source the finest flowers. From there, he began his expedition to concoct the preservation process. “That innovative formula to retain the colour, stature and feel of a rose took over a year to be perfect,” he recalls. Little did he expect that the real challenge was yet to come. After getting the immortal roses ready, he was confident they would amaze any customer, bewitching them like the enchanted flower in Beauty and the Beast
to “fly off the shelves in no time.” The first store in Manchester’s Trafford Centre was welcomed with much enthusiasm thanks to the ideal Instagram backdrop of rose-filled arches where shoppers who weren’t necessarily customers came to get snapped but didn’t want to open their wallets. While these posts garnered much brand awareness without Babar having to spend money on marketing, it failed to generate profits. “I got the response I expected but it wasn’t driving enough sales,” Babar says, adding that receiving social media success had him look at the business through rosetinted glasses hence he “underestimated the upcoming challenges.” “We then realised
Making millions of pounds is good but giving people something that will stay for their entire lifetime is something else altogether the financially dull climate we were in and because this wasn’t a consumable product people were struggling to spend £80 for a rose,” he admits. With the root cause being the high pricing and unending expenses, things needed a little trim for the company to grow. Drawing upon his past experience in crisis management for franchises and analysing their business models, Babar knew what had to be done. “The R&D needed more capital as we were revising our model,” he adds. “And we couldn’t sell too many roses as the production process to preserve a rose forever takes quite a long time.” However, financial challenges didn’t wither his passion for the project. To ensure the budding company was nurtured to the best of his ability, he bootstrapped and smashed open the piggy bank of savings from his previous job. Once he rose above those obstacles and built a stronger team, the business started gaining momentum. A few months down the line, Babar started getting enquiries for franchising without having to advertise. The only reason he took his time to sign the first franchisee was because he didn’t think the company october 2018 | elitefranchise
One to watch.indd 2
41
21/09/2018 12:23
Endura roses
was ready initially. “[But] branching into franchising was the goal from day one,” he says. After opening his company store in the Trafford Centre which is touted as a premium location, Babar wanted to experiment with lesser known territories and chose the Intu Lakeside Shopping Centre in Essex for his first franchise site, which opened as of July 2018. Harnessing his experience in franchising even before opening the first franchise, Babar knew the key factor for success was ensuring happy and profitable franchisees.
“Opening your own franchise is a different ball game,” he says. “I need to have the answers for every problem that might come up and that was a lesson for me.” For Babar, it was all about simplicity for his model. Based on that, he notes the franchisee doesn’t require any extensive training and ensures they’re hand-held at every step. From marketing, designing, sourcing the product, recruiting the staff as well as the store launch – it’s all executed by the franchisor. “Simply put, franchisees mainly need to put the product from the box onto the shelf – the roses sell themselves,” he says. “As soon as a customer comes into the store, they get fascinated with the product so 70% of the job is done. You don’t need to be an expert in marketing to run an Endura store.” Like his training model, Babar’s recruitment checklist wasn’t a complicated one. “I don’t want a franchisee who thinks of Endura as just a moneymaking ATM,” he says. Nor is having business experience important for him. “All I want is passion and value which you add to the brand.” This passion held by the franchisor helped him to start retailing the roses in House of Fraser and initiate talks with Selfridges. And now that the fragrance of Endura Roses is spreading across Britain, Babar is sowing the seed in international soil. Having already signed master franchisees in the US, Scandinavia and India, Babar has plans to take over all major cities of Europe and eventually grow his roots on every continent. He hasn’t forgotten where he started though and the UK is still very much his bread and butter with two franchisees scheduled to open this autumn and four more in early 2019 in all parts of the country. Indeed, Babar is sure to see his brand cultivate more popularity and aims to open at least 25 stores nationwide in the next five years. “There’s nothing more quintessential as a bouquet of red roses for a loved one irrespective of the occasion,” he declares. “With the fast-paced, technology-filled life today, people need more natural beauty around them. And the way flowers touch people’s lives is unfathomable, so what could be a better business than that?”
With the fast-paced, technologyfilled life today, people need more natural beauty around them
42 elitefranchise | OCTOBER 2018
One to watch.indd 3
21/09/2018 12:23
ADVERTISING FEATURE
Can you double your revenue in six months? It’s time for MJB Graham Consultancy to expand and help even more franchisees and businesses thrive. Discover the excitement and pride that driving such phenomenal results can bring The four pillars At MJB Graham Consultancy, our specialist team helps companies across all industry sectors to overcome their sales challenges with an approach that drives performance. The fact is that generating sales is the key to driving every business forward. We believe that if a business owner is open to learning the art of selling, they can achieve anything. We have broken this down into four easy to understand pillars. Strategy How to get your product and service in front of the right clientele - an effective system to generate leads. Process How to stay in control and save time when taking your prospect on the journey to becoming a client. Pitch How to articulate your offering in the best possible way. People buy from you instead of you selling to them. Mindset This is fundamental to succeed in any business. Without the right mindset, the rest is unlikely to work. Supported every step of the way Let us help you to set up and run your own thriving consultancy business with our tried and tested systemised programme, designed to enable you to get you up and running with your own successful firm, whether you want to work part-time or full-time.
You will be fully trained on the four pillars, all of the programmes and be supported by your very own business coach. This will start off with your business plan, then you’ll be mentored every step of the way to drive quick, scalable and sustainable results for your clients, as well as yourself. We have heaps of online collateral including case studies, proving that our method really does help businesses at least double their revenue within months. The MJB head office fully supports you with sending out, as well as chasing contracts and invoices, freeing up your time to find more clients and drive their success. We run quarterly events for the franchisees and their clients, which really help you and your clients strengthen relationships, as well as being a fantastic way to expand your network with like-minded individuals.
Hungry for more? Book a discovery session today, where you’ll have the opportunity to talk to not only head office but be introduced to your assigned business coach, as well as the team of existing franchisees. We look forward to talking you through the opportunity and answering any questions you may have to provide you with all the information you need to make a confident and informed decision.
To find out more visit: www.mjbgraham.com/franchise
october 2018 | elitefranchise
MJB - October Advertorial.indd 1
43
24/09/2018 15:40
Secure your financial
future through a proven
franchise model Follow a robust property investment model with a 15% ROI* and a lifelong annual income of
£50,000 - £150,000
Find out more about our specialist property investment model at one of our exclusive Discovery Days – secure your place today.
01202 652 101
platinumpropertypartners.co.uk * on
Untitled-2 3
average, across our 350+ Franchise Partner network
24/09/2018 17:52
The Entrepreneurial Franchise Opportunity 10 REASONS TO INVEST IN A CASH GENERATOR FRANCHISE Excellent Return on Investment * Proven business model Established since 1994 58 franchisees operating 120 stores across the UK High growth opportunity, recession proof business model Single store and Multi-site opportunities available Multiple revenue streams including online and in store Exclusive franchise territories awarded for 10 years Ongoing training and support packages tailored to your needs Bespoke EPOS and website ecommerce platforms * More information is available in our franchise prospectus, download from our website now
www.cgfranchising.co.uk
Untitled-2 3
24/09/2018 17:54
BIG MISTAKE
Remedy business headaches BY ERIC JOHANSSON
It’s easy to make mistakes the first time you launch a franchise. Fortunately, knowing the most common ones may help you avoid a headshattering migraine in the future
B
umbling and breaking your business isn’t something most franchisors would like to think about. It’s certainly not something you’d want hanging over your head in the early days of your franchise journey. But whether you like it or not, that’s just when you should worry the most as the errors you make when starting out may provide the biggest headaches down the line. Luckily for you, we’ve found out how you can treat some of the more manageable mistakes causing migraines for new franchisors. Don’t wait to sign the dotted line Sharing may be caring but so are contracts regulating relationships. Everything may seem crystal clear when you and your partners start the business with company shares divided equally as you focus on getting off the launchpad. However, neglecting to write up a shareholders’ agreement
46 ELITEFRANCHISE | OCTOBER 2018
BIG MISTAKE
could cause you a world of hurt later on. “The biggest mistake is not getting them in place before the company has value,” says Tracy Dickens, partner and head of the commercial and corporate finance team at Birkett Long, the law firm. The longer you rest on your laurels, the bigger the challenge of establishing a contract will be. And you can’t wait until you think you need them because that’s usually when there’s conflict between the partners. “Putting suitable protections in place at that time is very difficult since the wayward shareholder will often refuse to sign up to anything that could result in his removal from the company,” says Dickens. Remember, there’s no time like the present.
success. “Franchisees that don’t have the necessary skills can cause disruption in a franchise network and require a disproportionate amount of the franchisor’s time,” says Dickens. Luckily, franchisors can easily remedy this by ensuring aspiring franchisees are properly trained before joining the business and deny entry if they fail it. Once you’ve bulked up their skills, you can rest assured your network will be stronger than ever. You’ve got the money, right? We shouldn’t need to tell you launching a franchise requires some serious bucks. However, you may need to tell your aspiring franchisees that. “[It’s] important to ensure franchisees have the necessary capital requirements to support the new franchise during the startup phase,” says Dickens. “Too often a franchisor will relax requirements just to get a franchisee on board, which can lead to slower development of the franchise.” So make sure their cheques won’t bounce.
Help your franchisees bulk up If your franchisees are going to make some serious gains then you better put them on a tight training regime. No, we’re not talking dumbbells and skipping ropes but ensuring they’ve got the business chops required to make their franchise a
Not being cash-wise You shouldn’t have shaken your head in disgust when some business evangelist told you that cash is king. Instead, you should’ve been taking notes. As a franchisor it’s paramount to be realistic with budgets and to carefully monitor your cashflow. Ensure you’re paying both your employees and contractors on time and that the people using your services do the same to you. That being said, don’t hold back too much on salaries if you can, your own included. “It’s important you pay yourself a reasonable salary, especially when seeking investment Tracy Dickens, Birkett Long [because] if the founder
Franchisees that don’t have the necessary skills can cause disruption in a franchise network and require a disproportionate amount of the franchisor’s time
OCTOBER 2018 | ELITEFRANCHISE
47
Big mistake
is distracted the business is not going to progress,” says Karen Holden, founder of A City Law Firm. Liza Minnelli probably put it best when she sang: “Money makes the world go round.” Not caring for employees You’ve all heard the saying that every business is a people’s business. Well, the reason it’s become almost a cliché is because there’s truth behind it. Not only does your franchise thrive or fail depending on your employees but how you treat them will ensure your retention and recruitment levels remain high. “Employees are an asset to be looked after and cared for,” says Rachael Brown, associate solicitor at Howells Solicitors. This means being serious about health and safety, cracking down on any form of discrimination, paying at least the national minimum wage and to making sure yours is a fun company to work for. For that last point, we’re slightly partial to champagne Fridays. Have the talk Whether you’re talking about boyfriends and girlfriends or employers and employees, an important part of any relationship is to clearly define it. For franchisors, that means getting employment contracts right off the bat. However, this isn’t as easy as it might seem after a quick google. “New businesses may be tempted to download
contracts of employment from the internet but these documents may not always be tailored to individual business needs and may not contain details of recent employment law changes,” says Jane Crosby, partner at Hart Brown, the law firm. “Ensure you have properly drafted employment contracts in place that don’t cause problems later on and seek advice on their implementation.” Have the talk and sign the dotted line. Intellectual property Sooner or later you may hire a contractor to design your logo or work on some vital coding for your business model. But if they do, remember to write a contract and don’t trust their good word that you’ll own the copyright for it. “IP (intellectual property) ownership can only be granted or transferred in writing,” says Holden. “As such, if your freelance coder or developer has no contract with your business then they could actually own the IP that they have helped design, not you.” This means the freelancer could potentially sell their work to one of your competitors or hold it ransom if there’s ever a dispute between the two of you. The solution, of course, is to put pen to paper. Being sloppy with documents We know you’ve been nagged to death about the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) lately. However, being sloppy with information can be the kiss of death for your franchisor. “While it’s often overlooked as an organisational priority, the mismanagement of important documents – whether stored physically or electronically – can lead to severe legal consequences for your business,” warns Paul Ravey, sales manager at Access Records Management, the document management company. Not only could it cause you some serious reputational damage if clients find out that you’re botching the safekeeping of their data but breaching GDPR could cost a business up to $20m or 4% of its global turnover, whichever is greater. And that’s a bill no fledging franchisors would like to foot.
It’s important you pay yourself a reasonable salary Karen Holden, A City Law Firm
48 elitefranchise | OCTOBER 2018
Analysis.indd 3
21/09/2018 10:24
WEEKLY REPEAT BUSINESS WITH VIRTUALLY NO COMPETITION Global leader with over 20 years’ experience Exclusive Territory with huge customer base High demand allowing for multi van operation Last few remaining territories in the UK!
WE’RE STILL RECRUITING THROUGHOUT THE UK
OVER 350
FRANCH ISES WORLDWIDE
01788 550100 www.filtafryplus.co.uk | dslater@filtagroup.com
OPPORTUNITIES AVAILABLE FOR 2018 For the first time, it is now possible to operate your own part-time Helen O’Grady Drama Academy Business (2/3 days per week) for an initial outlay of only £2,000
Contact for a FREE brochure NOW Visit www.helenogrady.co.uk Call: 01481 200250 or email: nigel@ helenogrady.co.uk
The Incredible Ice Cream Company - October Advertorial.indd 1
24/09/2018 17:53
babyballet
Baby
steps
Having initially hung up her ballet shoes when she was 14, dancing has now become Claire O’Connor’s calling. Today she’s pirouetting around the world with her family to build on the 74 babyballet franchisees she has in the UK 50 elitefranchise | october 2018
International.indd 1
21/09/2018 10:55
babyballet
By zen terrelonge
A
s Claire O’Connor takes our call she’s enjoying the Canadian sun at a cafe in Toronto – a city she and her family have temporarily made home. It’s a stark contrast to Halifax which the Yorkshire-grown founder of babyballet, the infant dance franchise, proudly calls her hometown. Describing the transition, O’Connor says: “It’s a different way of living. We’re in an apartment, which is different to home but it’s exciting.” With husband Chris working in Toronto, the self-described “Halifax girl” considered it ideal timing for a unique family experience while growing babyballet, having relocated from the UK’s north in June. “When I was thinking about it, I was like it’s now or we don’t do it,” she says. “I’m not too proud to say ‘it’s not worked’ or ‘it’s not what we wanted’ – you can always head home.” Long before her North American adventure began, ballet was introduced to O’Connor organically through her mother’s dance school. “I was literally born into the world of ballet,” she says. Naturally, she started going to lessons but despite possessing talent, she lost love for the dance as it increased in competitiveness. “I was comparing myself to the best rather than enjoying ballet as a hobby,” she admits. “To be a ballerina you’ve got to be practically fabulous in every way like a top sportsperson would be.” That self-administered judgment resulted in her hanging up her dancing shoes when she was 14 but there was no escape. “It was very much in my life because my mum still had a school,” O’Connor says, admitting she remained immersed in the world by helping out now and again. Having completed school studies and headed off to university, it was in her third year when O’Connor discovered she was pregnant with eldest son Harry. “It was a bit of a shock to say the least,” laughs the now mother of four. Being a young mum was one thing but with post-natal depression too, she and Harry moved in with her parents. She started working but none of the temporary jobs were suitable as a single parent getting back on her feet. “One day I came home and my mum said ‘I can see you’re trying really hard to make ends meet. Do you want to help with the dance school?’” O’Connor recalls. She
took the opportunity and got working on the day-to-day running of the business. And soon enough, O’Connor’s old mixed feelings about ballet returned. “There were kids who would come as a hobby but I could see the sadness in their faces if they didn’t get the top results,” she says. “I wanted to bring more fun, something else to ballet.” The stars aligned and her mum found a place where she could lead preschool classes, which were an instant success. “For me the pressure was gone and people were having a really nice time with their child.” From that point, she started referring to the classes as babyballet to give it some identity. Keen to expand it but low on confidence, the late 1990s was when O’Connor realised franchising would be a good business model. “There were quite a few other preschool businesses that were franchised,” she says, noticing there were no ballet franchises then. With the internet gaining traction in 1999, researching her new project was made much easier. “I had a vision bigger than just a class – I wanted to create a programme, a syllabus, a real magic environment for these kids to come and enjoy ballet,” she says. Refusing to rush into franchising though, O’Connor spent years on research around working full-time for her mum and family life, the latter of which saw her have her second child in 2003. She eventually decided to spin babyballet into its own business in 2006 with her mum’s blessing and told her husband about the plan, then swiftly added a pink car and huge teddy bear to her company wish list. Following an appearance at the Franchise Exhibition in October 2006, a friend of a friend became the first franchisee and joined in January 2007. “[My] friend saw my passion and belief, how thorough I was and the vision I had and knowing the other person wanted a career change, had a child and wanted to come out of her career and invest in something,” she details. 11 years later, there are now 74 UK-based franchisees, which O’Connor attributes to “the passion and belief from everyone in [the network].” “Whether it be a teacher or someone who joins the admin team, it’s about knowing the brand and what our beliefs are,” she adds. “I wouldn’t be happy if franchisees thought head office was creaming all [the money] in and there was no reward for them.” That outlook worked wonders for the franchise, which expanded overseas in 2017 and found itself Down Under after a promotional babyballet tour across five cities in three weeks helped O’Connor spread brand awareness. Unlike the UK approach though, a licensee method was adopted by the franchisor for two reasons. Firstly, the scene in Australia and New Zealand already had plenty of dance schools that were ripe for disruption with a baby-facing element. Secondly, a short-lived partnership with a well-known Australian dance industry face changed the strategy. “We partnered up but quite quickly after had a change of direction and he moved to New
october 2018 | elitefranchise
International.indd 2
51
21/09/2018 10:56
BABYBALLET
I wouldn’t be happy if franchisees thought head office was creaming [the money] all in and there was no reward for them
York,” O’Connor recalls. “We were going to do a joint venture but it’s now 100%-owned by babyballet.” And that wholly-owned side of the business now has almost 40 schools in the region signed up already. Given the distance of Australia and New Zealand, O’Connor opines: “For the level of support, I didn’t think I would be able to deliver what I could in the UK over there with it being so far away. It seemed like the best model to keep standards and everything very tight on the agreement.” Another deciding factor was that many of the dance schools already had existing business support consultants in place. However, that’s not to say franchising is a total write-off. “Franchising could become key there,” she adds while insisting it’s wise not to pirouette before they can plié. “Like anything it’s got to go with what people are wanting.” With three trips Down Under in under three months, the distance was the hardest thing to manage for O’Connor. “I was like ‘oh god, I don’t know my own name’,” she laughs. At that point, the international strategy wasn’t concrete but the globetrotting foundation has very much set now. “I feel I can immerse myself in it and lead global business development, whereas at that point I was still very much involved in the day-to-day
running of the UK.” With that experience now under her belt and the march on Canada underway, O’Connor is keen to break as much bread with dance schools across Toronto as possible to understand how things work there before deciding her next move. “Every country is so different you can’t presume everything works the same,” she says. Indeed, there are legal and accounting angles that must be taken into consideration for franchising. And in terms of getting a footprint stamped into the market she’s open to both franchising and licensing, having cracked both at home and abroad. “It’s
got to be built to manage,” she adds, noting that a master would likely be appointed but whether on a state-bystate basis or countrywide remains to be seen. But no matter whether she’s making a quick soubresaut into another licensing scheme or a retiré devant into a new franchise model, you can remain certain the people teaching tots to dance will be up for the job. “I’ve always been a true believer that it’s the people who surround you that makes a business what it is,” O’Connor concludes. “People have to believe in what you’re providing. So as long as you get the right type of people, you’re flying.”
52 elitefranchise | october 2018
International.indd 3
21/09/2018 10:56
WHAT ARE YOU DOING TODAY, FOR YOUR TOMORROW? The Restore Automotive Turn-Key Franchise Can Turn This Into Your Reality
Our Franchise business provides a convenient and affordable way to have minor cosmetic repairs carried out on customer vehicles, at their location and convenience. We know our business inside and out and we will support you to grow yours every step of the way.
restorefranchise.com
The Incredible Ice Cream Company - October Advertorial.indd 1
24/09/2018 18:02
ADVERTISING FEATURE
Live life on the veg If you share our passion for organic food, then partner with us. Our franchisees are our brand ambassadors building relationships with and delivering to thousands of loyal customers each week
A
ward winning Riverford, began in 1987 when founder Guy Watson left behind his management consultant career in London to return to his parents’ South Devon farm and started growing organic veg. During those early days, the produce was grown and delivered using only three acres and a wheel barrow. Determined to find a better way of getting healthy, sustainable produce from grower to consumer and avoiding selling to supermarkets, Watson launched the home delivery scheme. Now Riverford is the UK’s largest and leading veg box scheme. Delivering approximately 50,000 boxes of fresh organic produce each week across the UK directly from our farms via our network of franchisees to our customers’ homes. Our clients care about where and how their food is produced. They trust Riverford to grow and source fresh, tasty and ethical food. Our commitment to reducing food waste and ensuring animal welfare is of the highest standard sets us apart from our competitors. We also support small farmers and ensure they’re paid fairly.
Riverford recently spent months intensely researching more sustainable packaging options for our veg boxes due to frustration with the state of nationwide recycling policies. As a result, we’ve committed to replace single-use plastic used in our veg boxes with home compostable packaging by the end of 2020. Many current franchisees were our customers before investing. It’s a real testament to our brand’s strength that people go from customer to running their own franchise. The majority of our sales come via online transactions from regularly ordering customers. Our franchisees pride themselves on delivering exceptional customer care that in turn generates high customer loyalty and increased order values.
Good food, good farming good business
The business benefits from a positive cashflow from day one. Running a Riverford franchise appeals to those seeking a new challenge and looking for a different way to make a living. It’s attractive to those perhaps bored with working nine to five and the daily commute as well as people looking to gain a better work-balance in their lives whilst utilising some proven skills and experience. For many, running a Riverford franchise offers greater flexibility to working around family life. Owning a franchise, however, is more than just a job: it’s running and managing your own business. Setting up your own business from scratch can be daunting and relatively high risk. Franchising with Riverford significantly reduces the risk as we have a proven business model, successful profitable businesses to invest in, comprehensive dedicated business support and an engaged and collaborative franchise
54 elitefranchise | october 2018
Riverford - October Advertorial.indd 1
24/09/2018 15:42
ADVERTISING FEATURE
network. Running any business is hard work but our franchisees get a deep sense of reward from being part of a profitable and ethically driven company. Our franchisees are certainly testament to this and share our vision for good food, good farming and good business. Our franchisees come from all walks of life and backgrounds so there’s no Mr, Miss or Mrs Right. That said, we’re very selective and hope applicants are too. There are some key attributes that are essential to succeed. This includes everything from basic business understanding, sales and marketing skills to the ability to build and maintain strong customer relationships. Along with sharing our brand values, there are three key characteristics our franchisees should have. Firstly, we’re on the lookout for transferable commercial skills, which we can provide the support to develop. Secondly, values are very important to us and a key component in order to be authentic and authoritative. Thirdly, we want the foundation for a good relationship that’s based on honesty, openness and trust. All Riverford franchisees are guided through our structured application process, during which we encourage them to fully discover what life as a Riverford franchisee is like and help them compile
comprehensive business plans to deliver a robust and realistic growth strategy. It’s important to fully understand the business they’re investing in. We look to develop long-term relationships with our franchisees as well as with our growers and suppliers. Riverford’s success relies on all elements of the supply chain working perfectly together. The strength of our franchisee network is a key component to the success of our business. For the right person, a Riverford franchise offers a safe and rewarding investment running a profitable business with an asset that can ultimately be sold at a profit. The organic market is currently worth £2.2bn and is in its sixth consecutive year of growth. At the same time the organic market as whole has shown a 6% increase, according to the latest Soil Association Organic Market Report. This growth has been reflected in Riverford’s sales, which has shown an 8% increase in sales on the prior year. In fact, sales have grown consistently year on year since 2008. We’ve made significant improvements to the online customer experience and as a result an everincreasing amount of customers are buying a wider range of products from Riverford and we sell over 300 product lines, helping to fuel the growth of each franchise. This strong retail performance is being enjoyed by our franchisees across the country where over 95% of territories are in growth over the last 12 months. This is an exciting time for individuals or couples to get involved in the fast-growing organic sector. Investing in a Riverford franchise provides a great opportunity to partner with an ethical and innovative business that has a proven business model and an established and respected brand identity.
To find out more, call us on 01803 227 380. Email: franchise@riverford.co.uk or visit: riverford.co.uk/franchise
october 2018 | elitefranchise
Riverford - October Advertorial.indd 2
55
24/09/2018 15:43
Untitled-2 3 Untitled-1 1
24/09/2018 17:55 29/06/2018 17:50
Chris Roberts director Franchise Finance
Can artificial intelligence boost franchising? AI is set to transform a slew of sectors over the next few years. So what does this mean for franchises?
I
am writing the beginning of this article on a plane, having just gone through a fully automated luggage drop and check in at Gatwick Airport. It was an efficient and flawless experience. More importantly, it’s an example of how much artificial intelligence (AI) is changing our society. And it’s no secret how it will affect franchises. Many jobs in the not too distant future are going to disappear as a result of AI and whilst some commentators say new and different jobs will be created in their place, the reality is we're talking about a relatively small percentage with more people being forced to try and find some other form of employment. I envisage some severe job shortages in the future, particularly bearing in mind our growing population. Many people, I think, are going to be looking to become self-employed and start their own businesses. However, the stats for this course of action don't bode well as it seems many stand-alone startups are likely to fail within the first few years of trading. The safer bet, all round, is to buy into a proven and successful franchise brand where the British Franchise Association/NatWest Franchise Survey 2015 shows an amazingly high level of profitability and success. This is because of the extra help, training and support that
a franchisee receives from a good and helpful franchisor. Rather than having to create customer awareness in the marketplace there will normally already be good brand recognition. The owner of the new franchise will be given a business model to follow. The potential pitfalls and problems should already have been identified and removed. There will be an easy process to follow and a clearly defined marketing strategy. You’ll go on carefully crafted courses to teach you all you need to know and you’ll have an operations
manual which will take you through everything on a step by step basis. Finally, the support you will get from lenders will be better. They are likely to lend more as the risks for them and, importantly, for you are likely to be smaller. So, if AI is beginning to bite your industry or profession why not bite back and research franchising to see how you could start and grow your own business much more safely. Oh and by the way, there is a huge amount of help available out there right now for people joining and looking to expand within the UK franchise industry.
october 2018 | elitefranchise
Column_C.Roberts.indd 1
57
21/09/2018 10:57
ADVERTISING FEATURE
Do you enjoy working with children? Are you a performing artist or teacher who loves working with children? We can set you on the road to success
T
he Helen O’Grady Drama Academy is a one-of-a-kind UK franchise offering a self-development programme for children designed to build their confidence and self-esteem through a carefully constructed drama programme. We provide an opportunity for energetic, enthusiastic, creative and passionate franchisees to run a business enabling them to connect with children, have their school holidays free and to earn an attractive income. TRAINING AND SUPPORT Franchisees are fully trained in all aspects of the teaching, marketing and administration of our programme. Support includes pre- and postlaunch training, the latter of which continues throughout the first year of operation. In subsequent years, regular visits by a director or senior member of staff will be made. Regular telephone contact is always maintained. Franchisees attend a training seminar three times
a year to cover relevant business matters and to workshop curriculum for the coming term. These days are also an opportunity for franchisees to catch up with other franchisees and exchange anecdotes and ideas. THERE ARE MANY BENEFITS OF BECOMING A FRANCHISEE WITHIN OUR ORGANISATION Being self-employed is a major attraction to teachers and those in education; working flexible hours to suit yourself during term time only, leads to being able to spend quality time with your family. As part of our international network you will have access to a wealth of communication and ongoing support. One of the real advantages is being provided with a structured curriculum, covering ages from two to adults and that is being updated every term. The success of any franchise is only as good as the initial and ongoing training and support. You will receive initial induction training, followed by termly seminars where new curriculum is workshopped, as well as regular ongoing support from a member of our extensive training team. All these benefits will mean a good income for yourself – and all you have to do is follow a tried and proven system which has shown success over 39 years in 36 countries.
Helen O’Grady annual seminar in Guernsey
THE INVESTMENT To become part of this highly successful organisation, you will be required to invest approximately £15,000 for a full sized branch. An interest free payment plan is available, with a minimum deposit of £3,000. It is now also possible to operate your own part-time
58 elitefranchise | october 2018
Helen O'Grady - Advertorial.indd 1
24/09/2018 17:19
ADVERTISING FEATURE
drama academy business for three days per week for an initial outlay of only £2,000. THE RETURN This is an excellent cash flow business, with the bulk of the fees being collected at the commencement of each term. All territories are exclusive. The possibilities are excellent with good teaching, smart administration and excellent marketing and promotional support. A franchisee can earn in excess of £30,000 per annum. The growth of your business is limited only by your creativity and imagination. KEY FRANCHISE FEATURES Our advertising and marketing programme has been devised through experience and with the assistance of a top advertising agency. It has proven to be extremely effective. Assistance is given to franchisees in the selection of their initial studio locations. All curriculum content and lesson plans are provided each term. Therefore, franchisees are spared the time-consuming task of research and preparation of lessons. The academy year consists of three 12-week terms and with the exception of the August pre-enrolment period, school holidays can be enjoyed. The drama academy franchise is operated from home, with teaching studios being established in suitable halls within the franchise territory. By becoming a Helen O’Grady franchisee
Helen O’Grady students in their summer production
you can expect to work far fewer hours than with other businesses with comparable income. ADVANTAGES OF BEING A HELEN O’GRADY FRANCHISEE Every franchisee is given the specialised knowledge and training needed to operate classes as a highly successful business. Our franchise business commences with the benefit of a name, reputation and goodwill already established in 39 countries including Australia, New Zealand, Africa, South Africa, Malaysia, China, Korea, Singapore, India, USA, Malta, Bosnia, Japan, Pakistan and the UK. As a franchisee you can set up a lucrative and proven business without the need to risk a substantial amount of capital in an untried venture. You will have access to the specialised, highly skilled knowledge and experience of the franchisor’s head office organisation, whilst continuing in a selfemployed capacity. You will also have the benefit of
our team’s continuous research and development programmes, designed to improve and update all aspects of the academy’s operations. ACT NOW FOR YOUR OWN FUTURE If you are considering a franchise business, have a love for drama, and would like to help children express themselves and build their confidence and communication skills through a unique, fun drama programme, then act now. We are seeking suitable people in Tayforth, South and SW London, Portsmouth, Guildford, Oxford, Plymouth, Southampton, Norwich and Stockport. To show your interest, or for more information, please contact Chief Executive Officer, Nigel Le Page on 01481 200250 or by email to nigel@helenogrady.co.uk or visit www.helenogrady.co.uk.
We teach over 100,000 students worldwide each week october 2018 | elitefranchise
Helen O'Grady - Advertorial.indd 2
59
24/09/2018 17:20
The power of planning Working blind or through guesswork may work for the lucky few but for most businesses, being properly prepared for opportunities and threats is key to not only grow but also to survive BY James Thomas, franchise relationship manager, D&T chartered accountants
M
any business owners invest the time and effort at the start of their company to put together a plan for the purposes of securing funding. The goal is to demonstrate they hold a clear understanding of the business’s circumstances and market, with
Finance
a carefully thought-out plan to maximise available resources and any borrowed capital. However, once that funding lands in their bank account, they’re away and the plan is neglected, forgotten in someone’s filing system. This is unfortunately all too often the case in many firms. Every business should have a strategy but it shouldn’t be a static document, abandoned in a drawer. A dynamic business plan, regularly updated and refocused, is key to ensuring laser-sharp strategy and the resulting growth. To grow, you need to identify exactly where the company is, exactly where you want it to go and perhaps most importantly how you’re going to get it there. It’s almost impossible to see the whole staircase but taking steps in the right direction will help keep you on the right path to achieving your goals.
It’s a strategic plan but it’s also a vision and a clear appraisal of the business. Not only does this help you ensure every action takes you closer to your goals, not down the wrong path, but also provides an excellent
Operations
60 elitefranchise | OCTOBER 2018
Finance.indd 1
24/09/2018 09:41
g n i t e k r a
M
accountability tool to set targets and budgets. You can then track actual performance against these to ensure your business is working to achieve goals in a realistic timeframe. If you find you’re not hitting your KPIs, it’s time to look again at your practices and processes and redirect your energies sooner rather than later. You’re then much more likely to meet your objectives and be able to identify where and why you may be going astray. This approach can help staff members see how they can assist the business meet its objectives. With clear goals based around productivity benchmarks or profit figures, for example, staff can get on board and be inspired, seeing exactly how their contribution can help. Even better if targets can align with staff appraisals, to ensure they can progress with the business too. A great plan is all well and good but the key is putting it into practice consistently and achieving the objectives. A strong KPI and plan review system to monitor progress is one of the most effective ways to develop and grow your business. Throughout your business journey, you and your company will progress. You as a business owner will need to navigate market changes, tempting opportunities, dead-ends, mistakes, unexpected wins, fantastic chances. With a strong plan, you’re far better placed to face and consider these and maximise or prepare for them. If it’s left until it’s too late, a business is made vulnerable. A continuous and regular planning cycle involving key people ensures plans are kept up-to-date and relevant. Cut out the waffle too – keep it as sharp and frank as you can. The
Achieving your goals
-
Every business should have a plan but it shouldn’t be a static document, abandoned in a drawer.
more honestly and to the point it’s prepared, the more robust the plan is and better value it provides. The difficult bit is often facing up to the challenges. Break the plan down carefully and look at your whole business – finances, relevant
a business is great but for it to grow, planning must be an ongoing process. Defining and refining your business purpose helps keep you and your staff focused and ensures your firm continues delivering what it is that your customers want.
operational information, marketing or sales objectives and any other goals you might have, such as eventual exit or resale plans. Look at your firm objectively, which is often not easy when you spend most of your waking hours there, to spot weaknesses and draw up some ideas for removing or reducing the impact of these. Unfortunately, sticking your head in the sand doesn’t mean the problem goes away. It’s a damaging and dangerous game. Far better to be prepared and forearmed so any potential problems can be anticipated and acted on. Wherever you are on your business journey, it’s important to highlight areas where things can be improved, opportunities can be taken or steps may have been missed. Creating a plan at the start of
Regardless of the format or timescales you choose for your business plan, any actions, experience and ideas you come across should feed back into the plan to help the business grow and achieve.
Team
s l a o G
OCTOBER 2018 | elitefranchise
Finance.indd 2
61
24/09/2018 09:41
THE FAST AND SIMPLE WAY TO GET FINANCE FOR YOUR FRANCHISE! Do you need finance for: Franchise fee and other start-up costs? | Vehicles or equipment? | Premises fit-out?
Franchise Finance can help you achieve your franchising dream! • Award winning business • 95% + success rate in arranging finance • Credit decisions conveyed within 48 hours • Rapid drawdown • Finance from £5,000 upwards
GET IN TOUCH NOW!
01844 355575 funding@franchisefinance.co.uk www.franchisefinance.co.uk
Franchise Finance Limited is a credit broker and not a lender. Finance is subject to status and terms and conditions. Franchise Finance Limited is authorised and regulated by the financial conduct authority, number: 627385 and acts as a credit broker sourcing credit for franchises from a carefully selected panel of lenders. Registered Office: Hitachi Capital House, Thorpe Road, Staines-upon-Thames, Surrey, TW18 3HP. Registered in Cardiff no. 07285150. Franchise Finance Limited is a wholly owned subsidiary of Hitachi Capital (UK) PLC. Hitachi Capital (UK) PLC is a finance provider
Untitled-2 Finance 3 Franchise October.pdf 1
24/09/2018 17/09/2018 17:56 11:41
ADVERTISING FEATURE
Building your heritage in homecare Homecare is a first choice for both those looking to stay in the comfort of their own home and franchisees wanting to make a true difference within their community
M
ore people are choosing to remain at home in their later years and looking for support to continue living independently. Homecare is a movement here to stay, supported by local authorities and political parties, helping reduce the strain on residential care. There are over 8,500 care providers available to choose from in the UK, all providing different levels of care and support. So why are more business owners deciding to launch a homecare service too? Our Heritage Healthcare franchisees have a passion for providing care and support. Some have established a career within healthcare, with rich experiences in nursing, mental health and residential care. For many, they have first-hand experience looking for care, having searched tirelessly for the right support for a loved one and saw where improvements were needed. Just like our franchisees, the Heritage Healthcare directors have gained experience within the care industry and together have over 85 years of knowledge. They have built a business model that works. Our services are created to the wishes and health requirements of our clients, working with loved ones and external healthcare professionals to create the right care package for them. Whether it’s personal care, household help or companionship, our clients know they will receive expert support. It’s not just our services that are bespoke: our territories are tailored to the communities our franchisees know, with plenty of room to develop. Franchisees are provided with unique and comprehensive training to cover everything business related including finance, marketing and developing a
Caring is what we do at Heritage Healthcare. Our franchisees make a true difference in their local communities, providing a care service people know and trust business plan. Our head office support team help franchisees recruit their key staff members and process through the all-important Care Quality Commission (CQC) registration, so they can get started with delivering expert homecare as soon as possible. Caring is what we do at Heritage Healthcare. Our franchisees make a true difference in their local communities, providing a care service people know and trust. This past year,
three franchise offices have been rewarded for their dedicated service by receiving an ‘Outstanding’ rating with CQC or a 100% rating with Care Inspectorate Wales. The rest of the franchise network are fast approaching, becoming the care provider of choice within their territories and building their own heritage within the care industry.
Find out how you can build your heritage and launch a homecare service; visit: heritagehealthcarefranchising.co.uk or contact our team on 01325 370 700 today.
october 18 | elitefranchise
October Heritage Healthcare Advertorial.indd 1
63
24/09/2018 17:24
An exciting business opportunity with one of the lowest management service fees in the industry. Enjoy the returns from the building your own business in a ÂŁ6bn marketplace which includes retailers, supermarkets, offices, GP surgeries, schools and much, much more.
Average net profit margin 20% Huge potential Exclusive territory Investment from Just ÂŁ19,600 + VAT
Betterclean - DPS October.indd 1
25/09/2018 10:07
With BCS your route to achieving your financial goals is tailored around your personal objectives, experience and available resources. Although franchisees share a common goal, the route each takes is entirely personal to them. We work with you to define your plan and then support you in enjoying the journey through our 5 STAR support package Business growth support – for the duration of your business. Training and development – get the knowledge to run and build your business. Flying squad – in territory assistance from our elite support team. Head office assistance with day to day tasks – HR, recruitment, telemarketing etc. Exit model/buy-back scheme – planning for the future
WE HELP YOU SUCCEED With a Betterclean Services franchise you get an exclusive territory, a large support network to help you run and build your business. We work with you to define your plan and then support you in enjoying the journey.
If you’re enthusiastic, self-motivated and would like to apply to join our network call today on 0800 772 0810 or email franchise@bettercleanservices.co.uk
Betterclean - DPS October.indd 2
25/09/2018 10:08
ADVERTISING FEATURE
Join a franchise with over 50 years of success
S
chmidt Kitchens is the leading kitchen retail brand in Europe with a turnover of over €500m and employ more than 1,500 people. We design, produce and distribute innovative products and services that play a major part in home improvement in the kitchen, bathroom and interior solution marketplace. All our products come from our five factories in the heart of Europe – four in France and one in Germany. Since 1989 we’ve been developing an exclusive showroom concept and now have more than 700 showrooms spread around 25 countries.
Opening a Schmidt showroom goes hand in hand with a great turnover and a profitable business 100 showrooms in the UK by 2022 Having successfully launched our services in France, Germany, Italy and Spain where we have exclusive showrooms, our strategy is now to further develop our offerings in Britain. Our aim is to distribute our products through a network of franchisees who manage their own showrooms in line with our concept whilst receiving on-going help, assistance and support from us.
Be involved in a buoyant market UK is the third largest consumer of kitchen furniture in Europe. It is beyond doubt that most UK households now put a high value on the Interior design of their home, high quality fitted kitchens and Interior solutions furniture will play a major part. Fitted kitchens are now the norm and no longer a luxury. A kitchen is now at the heart of your home and represents a place where we spend most of our time.
66 elitefranchise | october 2018
Schmidt - October Advertorial.indd 1
24/09/2018 17:25
ADVERTISING FEATURE
Opening a Schmidt showroom goes hand in hand with a great turnover and a profitable business. Not only do you join a brand associated with quality but also the fourth largest kitchen manufacturer in Europe. Schmidt is always at your side. Independent but not on your own Schmidt is at your side on a daily basis in assisting you with the success of your showroom. You will get support from various departments, Moreover, you’ll receive marketing advice, IT support, sales administration assistance, recommendations for your showroom’s layout and much more.
This training, both theoretical and practical, will enable you to acquire the required skills to perform efficiently in your new role. At the end of the training, you and your team will have a great product knowledge and feel comfortable in applying Schmidt sales techniques. You’ll gain the knowhow to design kitchens with our CAD design software and be able to confidently use reporting and management software tools. The assistance is continuous before, during and after the showroom’s opening. We have put in place a training programme that will guarantee your success.
Training Schmidt offers a 14-week comprehensive training programme.
Three financing partners A Schmidt showroom is financed by you and your personal investment,
the bank that finances the refurbishment of the showroom and Schmidt’s financing with regards to the brand concept. Schmidt will finance up to 30% of the overall project In collaboration with your accountant, we will help you set up your business plan. In addition to this we will come with you to the bank and help you to present your business plan in order to secure the loan. Your showroom will be profitable in no time. There is also no entry fees and no royalties. No stock, as kitchens are delivered directly to the consumer. There are no cash flow issues as you receive a 40% deposit from the consumer at the order. A Schmidt showroom offers the opportunity for a healthy annual distributable income and and full ROI in less than 5 years. Franchisee profile So who would be the ideal person to join us for this exciting venture? The right candidate would preferably be a business-minded person with a passion for sales. We are looking for leaders who sport a handson approach and who’d like to get involved 100% in their business. Having knowledge in the kitchen industry is not necessary at all as we provide a comprehensive training programme enabling you to succeed. If you think you’ve got what it takes to be a Schmidt franchisee, then we’d love to hear from you.
For more information please contact: rosalyn.hastings@groupe.schmidt
october 2018 | elitefranchise
Schmidt - October Advertorial.indd 2
67
24/09/2018 17:25
Own a gym with the UK’s top fitness franchisor Ranked #14 in the Elite Franchise Top 100 UK Franchises 2018
With over 15 years’ experience in the UK fitness franchise sector, no other fitness franchisor understands the UK health and fitness market like énergie.
No previous experience in the sector required
Dedicated UK based franchise support and world-class business training
Record-breaking fitness club launches
Expert advice and guidance every step of the way
A proven track record of success
To get a full information pack and book your place on our next Franchise Discovery Day, visit: www.energiefranchise.com or call: 0845 363 1020
énergie Fitness Advert 1
24/09/2018 17:57
ADVERTISING FEATURE
Flexible franchising is a piece of cake There is nothing stopping you from achieving your dream. Life is a journey, it’s all about how you steer forward
A
t Cup the Cake, we certainly understand that in today’s financial climate it’s important for both mums and dads to work. So what better opportunity is there than to work from home, have fun and still be able to spend time with your little angels? With us you get just that. What’s more we don’t breathe over your shoulder or ask for any of your profits. Your earning potential completely depends on you. A delectable opportunity to start your own business from the comfort of your own home with no traffic, no travelling expenses, no boss to answer to and best of all no monthly royalties to pay out. What you earn is yours to keep because you earned it, it’s yours. An idea inspired with your angelic children in mind Your business will be set up for you from scratch. Included with your startup pack is a comprehensive kit which will equip you with all the basics needed to best service your customers. Comprehensive initial training is included with the option to further advance with our ongoing training. At Cup the Cake the sky is the limit. Our unique selling point is that we create cupcakes with unconditional love and enthusiasm for our customers, regardless of the occasion. We thrive on our creative abilities. Cup the Cake creates everything from cupcakes with a unique splendour and wedding cupcakes with a flair to something quick and simple to take to the office for your birthday and unique no-two-thesame designs for birthdays.
Not only will you still be with your angels and work from home but you’ll also be in a position to earn a cash income greatly influenced by the amount of hours you invest into your business venture. Whether it be part-time or full time, whichever you decide. Cup the Cake offers three entry packages. The first, Fairy, offers the opportunity to start something on a smaller scale with abundant potential. Included is your complete online set-up, website, admin portal, booking and payment portal, order requests, store front – Facebook page, email address, training, ongoing support and even hosting your website for six months. Your complete online set-up and training await you. All you need to do is have fun while you earn. The second option is called Cherub. It includes the set-up as with the Fairy package as well as business cards, car magnets and an online marketing boost. Your set-up will also include your business registration with Companies House, guidance with regards to your business banking account options and accounting software. Your starter kit is comprehensive and will equip you with all the basics needed to get those orders out to your customers. Thirdly is Angelic which includes all as stated in Cherub plus an electric mixer and an edible image printer set up for all your creative toppers as well as a turntable for your masterful creations, an airbrush set up which includes a compressor and edible colours and a fondant steamer for brightening up your unique designs.
t: 07799 453621 e: hello@cupthecake.com w: cupthecake.com
OCTOBER 2018 | ELITEFRANCHISE
69
ADVERTISING FEATURE
Invest in a superior retail franchise and partner with a global design brand BoConcept has ambitious expansion plans worldwide and offers exciting investment franchise opportunities in the UK and throughout Europe.
B
oConcept is a global retail franchise, with over 300 stores in 65 countries, spreading across Europe, America, the Asia Pacific region, the Middle East and Northern Africa. Now an established and proven retail franchise system around the world, the BoConcept story started back in 1952 as a furniture manufacturer in Herning, Denmark. The first BoConcept brand store opened in Paris in 1993 and 25 years later it offers premium quality interior design to the cosmopolitanminded customer around the world. Unrivalled in its field, BoConcept has an ambitious plan to more than double the number of stores to over 600 ones over the next few years and lists UK as one of its priority markets. With already 19 stores operating in the UK, there are further plans to open at least 20 more in the medium term, so investors and entrepreneurs have the exciting opportunity to join this expanding brand as a UK franchisee.
A superior franchise option BoConcept is globally renowned for its style and quality at a fair price. Becoming its franchisee means joining the ranks of this successful, stylish and profitable organisation. With over 15 million website visitors and five million in-store visitors per year, you know you are partnering with a brand and company you can take pride in and find success with. Customising and designing furniture and accessories according to the needs and dreams of their customers, BoConcept appeals to the cosmopolitanminded. By focusing on functional and customisable furniture, BoConcept has created an approachable, fashionable, trusted and customer focused brand. On top of this customer focus, BoConcept is passionate about facilitating the best possible experience for its franchisees. Becoming a BoConcept franchisee means joining a team of equals, with the support of a solid franchisor.
By collaborating with world renowned designers, BoConcept continuously cultivates brand credibility and integrity, another huge benefit for its many successful franchisees. BoConcept offers a personalised interior design service, with complimentary systems and furniture customisation options that allow franchisees to provide additional services to their local customers. BoConcept is an award-winning company, with a proven, profitable business model. The company has developed a superior model for generating quick cash flow, ideal for its franchisees. These numerous benefits offered by the organisation to their franchisees, combined with the superior customer experience and the outstanding reputation of the brand around the world, make BoConcept a superior choice in retail franchises. Support of a global brand Franchisees are provided with world class support, training and programs to ensure their continued success. An experienced marketing team supports and advises franchisees in all communication aspects as well as provides all the international, national and local materials required to efficiently generate in-store traffic, including catalogues, flyers, in-store materials, advertisements, direct mails, social media content, press releases and much more. In conjunction with the marketing team, the dedicated store opening team at BoConcept is responsible for supporting franchisees in a wide range of aspects when opening a new BoConcept store.
70 elitefranchise | october 2018
BoConcept - October Advertorial.indd 1
24/09/2018 17:26
ADVERTISING FEATURE
This varies from the store designers, designing and completing the store layout in a range of sizes, to the opening support team who assists the franchisees in warehouse set up, store routines and more. The BoConcept IT system supports the processes in the stores by making administration, reporting and performance evaluation easier to access and work with. A business intelligence system has been added to enable the use of sales statistics and more from the IT system database. In addition to this, supply chain management and benchmarking are streamlined throughout the chain with logistics and performance improvements as a result. Expanding in the UK and Europe BoConcept is looking for franchisees with the intention and capacity to invest in several stores within an agreed geographic area. Investors or business owners willing to diversify their portfolio are invited to contact BoConcept to discuss investment possibilities. Existing furniture retailers are also welcome to get in touch to discuss re-branding, along with ambitious individuals looking for a career change. Sales and management experience as well as a willingness to lead, delegate and motivate are recommended as a good foundation for running a BoConcept store. Retail experience, ideally combined with a passion for design and style, can complement this profile and be an interesting plus.
BoConcept is a proven brand and a business with amazing opportunities and potential. It is one of the top brands in the furniture industry worldwide and the major player in the segment selected. We have now eight successful stores in greater London and plans to open several more in a few years. I am extremely happy with our journey with BoConcept and proud of being part of this great family. Mireille Baumgart, BoConcept franchisee in London, with eight stores
The startup investment level for a BoConcept store starts at ÂŁ350.000, depending on size and location, with a liquid equity of around 30% of the initial investment. There is also an initial franchise fee of ÂŁ20,000 per store. BoConcept is looking for partners with a Multi-Unit mindset and the capacity to invest in several stores. Besides the UK, BoConcept is also expanding strongly in other countries, with several franchise opportunities throughout Europe, so investors and entrepreneurs interested in other European countries are welcome to get in touch to discuss investment possibilities.
For more information: franchise@boconcept.com www.boconcept.com/franchise
october 2018 | elitefranchise
BoConcept - October Advertorial.indd 2
71
24/09/2018 17:26
PHABLET FANTASIES
Catching
screen time By Paul Stafford
Yes you may find a match on Tinder but being clever with smartphone marketing can also attract a lot of new franchisees
I
t’s no secret technology has long been changing the way we live, nor that the pace at which technology evolves is difficult to keep up with. In franchise marketing, that’s perhaps best illustrated by the effect phones and tablets has had on how franchisors reach their target audiences.
This isn’t a call to arms to avoid non-digital marketing - print, exhibitions, audio and face-to-face channels are still an important part of the mix. But even within those areas, the small screens we spend so much time looking at has changed the way networks grow. From apps like Readly
and Skype to the mailshots you use to promote your exhibition attendance or discovery day, smartphones are now a vital part of more than just your digital marketing activity. They’re how your audience view much of your information and content. Whether it’s buying a house, banking, getting from A to B, catching up on current affairs, shopping or communicating with each other, our smart devices can virtually help us with everything. Marketing and advertising have been forever changed by them. Are franchisors paying enough attention to this fact?
72 elitefranchise | OCTOBER 2018
Sales and Marketing.indd 1
21/09/2018 12:25
PHABLET FANTASIES
Responsive is just the beginning Let’s start with the obvious: everybody knows websites must be responsive on all screens, with more searches now carried out on mobiles than desktops and Google penalising URLs which aren’t mobile-friendly in search results. But it’s not just about ensuring your content resizes for phones and tablets, it’s about making sure the content is suited to those screens too. Design and planning are still generally carried out on desktops and laptops, even though the majority of prospects are consuming the content on a much smaller device. When was the last time you looked at your franchise site on a mobile, imagining it’s the first time you’ve ever seen it? A text-heavy website might look great and work perfectly on a computer but on a phone it will quickly become laborious to read and disengage visitors. We’ve long been moving towards more visual means of
When was the last time you looked at your franchise site on a mobile, imagining it’s the first time you’ve ever seen it? communication, so even if you want to maintain plenty of copy on your desktop site, your mobile version might need to look very different with shorter bursts of text interspersed with graphics, icons and all-important video clips. And we’re now used to getting all the information we want instantaneously and with as little effort as possible, so navigation is just as important - a simple, clear journey through the site at the touch of a small-screen button or link can make all the difference between an enquiry and a missed opportunity.
Video is still a word that can scare those who don’t like appearing on camera but as regular readers know, I can’t stress enough how important it is to connect with a modern audience and show off your franchise. The boom in YouTube followed by Snapchat and Netflix et al. is impossible to ignore when it comes to what we do with our time. Mobile video viewing time in the UK is predicted to grow by 16% this year, according to eMarketer. Moreover, Hubspot reports 55% of people watch online videos daily and 78% weekly. If you’ve been on a tube,
OCTOBER 2018 | elitefranchise
Sales and Marketing.indd 2
73
21/09/2018 12:28
PHABLET FANTASIES
train or bus recently this will come as no surprise, with most of us being glued to our screens instead of reading the once-ubiquitous free papers. And that brings a host of opportunities. Pinpoint accuracy With the rise of screen time has come an explosion of data available to marketers. Where once you’d put an advert in a paper or the Yellow Pages and hope to reach the people you were targeting, it’s never been easier to pinpoint an audience and appeal to them directly. Whatever demographic or interest you’re seeking, there’s a platform that can get you in front of the right prospects if you can just imagine the world through their eyes for a moment or two. Those people on their commute to and from a job they can’t stand who are scrolling through their Facebook and LinkedIn feeds or surfing web pages for something interesting to read or watch? That’s a captive audience for your franchise - morning noon and night. The so-called millennials who are Snapchatting and Instagramming their lives and watching brand stories in between
Video is still a word that can scare those who don’t like appearing on camera swapping pictures with friends? Those are eyes you could be engaging with your franchise opportunity. The point is, smartphones have made it possible to reach into someone’s world in ways never before possible. We all want to see franchising enjoy greater visibility in the media but that’s no longer the only way to showcase the sector or your brand’s position in it. That little device in everybody’s pocket or bag lets you reach out to the previously unreachable. The general consensus at recent events and forums I’ve been to, from both franchisors and the likes of banks and other professionals, is that franchisee recruitment has been tough
this year. Between Brexit concerns, record employment levels and high levels of personal debt, that’s perhaps no surprise. But if you’re finding it hard to attract the right kind of prospect, then it’s time to take a fresh look at not just where you’re marketing but also at how you’re doing it. The technology revolution will continue apace and who knows how we’ll be reaching our audiences in ten years’ time? But for now, keep the small screen at the front of your mind and you won’t go far wrong. It might not be where you’re creating your content and collateral but it’s almost certainly where your prospects are reading, watching and listening to it.
74 elitefranchise | 2018
Sales and Marketing.indd 3
21/09/2018 12:30
Untitled-2 3
24/09/2018 17:58
half pages.indd 1
25/09/2018 15:15
Fi
nce a n
e
bl a l i a Av
The UK’s No1 dry carpet, upholstery and hard floor cleaner Earn in excess of £50,000 per year If you’re looking for an exciting career change that will bring you financial security without the constraints of working for someone else, a zerodrytime franchise could be the right choice for you. Our franchisees come from all backgrounds: Armed Forces • Police • Fire • Advertising Printers • Sales People • Carpet Fitters and many more...
Franchise areas available near you
Call: 0191 580 2993 zerodrytime.com/franchise
Key Benefits 4 Great earning solutions Full training & support On job training in customers homes Online videos & information Dedicated area Domestics & commercial Man in a van or management roles Great earning potential Repeat customers
TM
Flexible Working
In your By yoana Cholteeva
own time
As people’s lifestyles are changing, more and more professionals are searching for jobs allowing them to prioritise personal commitments and work flexibly
F
lexible working is often touted as the promised land of employment. For instance, PwC, the professional services firm, recently revealed new employees in the company will be able to choose their own working hours – something people could’ve only dreamt of a few years ago. So why shouldn’t franchisors and franchisees incorporate flexible working in their offering? Looking into the reasons behind this trend, it all comes down to people striving to make the most out of their time. “Worklife balance is a major concern for many people these days,” says Sue Tumelty, founder of The HR Dept, the HR service franchise. “No one’s last words are ‘I wish I had spent more time in the office.’” But combining a hectic work schedule with a family life and enough time for unwinding, this is something a standard nine to five timetable makes almost impossible. “There’s no one simple answer to the problem but flexible working can offer a variety of solutions such as working from home, compressed hours or starting earlier or later,” Tumelty reasons.
78 elitefranchise | october 2018
People.indd 1
21/09/2018 10:52
Flexible Working
Given flexible working is all about lifestyle choices, it can also bring professionals some wellbeing advantages. “Those able to work flexibly benefit from high levels of motivation, less stress and greater productivity,” suggests Julian Hall, founder of Ultra Education, the franchise teaching business. He believes more freedom for employees to choose their way of work even contributes to better health. “Lowering levels of stress help us to maintain safe levels of mental health, blood pressure and things like depression,” adds Hall. Similarly, more awareness of one’s schedule makes it easier to maintain a healthy rhythm around family. “I think one of the main advantages of flexible working is having little more headspace,” argues Holly Pither a blogger and a head of editorial at Bottle, a PR agency. Contrary
to common belief, an alternative schedule does not impede people’s performance, quite the opposite. Canada Life Group Insurance recently surveyed 1,001 UK full and part-time employees. The research revealed 77% feel flexible working helps productivity. “Knowing I can log on later and finish off some tasks and still leave the office on time to pick up my baby from childcare means I spend less time panicking and more time doing my job well,” Pither says. As flexible working brings a number of positives, it also requires some considerations. For example, franchisors have to ensure they’re on the same page with franchisees. “This is why time must be spent at the initial enquiry stage to ensure values are aligned between the franchisor and the franchisee,” Tumelty argues. Another thing to consider is whether or not you trust your franchisees
Knowing I can log on later and finish off some tasks and still leave the office on time to pick up my baby from childcare means I spend less time panicking and more time doing my job well Holly Pither, Bottle
and employees. It’s particularly vital as franchisors have little insight on everyday operations of their franchisees’, the former should ensure they’ve got the right people to invest trust in. “So don’t let the few that might abuse that trust ruin it for the vast majority who would welcome the flexibility, do more and have a better sense of purpose, ” says Steve Byrne, CEO of Travel Counsellors, the travel franchise. That’s why tracking the results of your company’s workers is so vital if you’re considering flexible working. “It’s important not to assume success but to work towards it in a collaborative way,” Hall suggests. For this reason, staying aware of your progress can prevent a significant amount of burden. “You treasure what you measure and keeping a track of progress while working flexibly can ensure that both parties are getting the most of that way of working.“ Hall advises. However, as much as flexible working and working from home have their advantages, the old-fashioned way of communication in business remains pivotal. “I still think it’s essential to have times when everyone is able to get together in the office,” Pither explains. “The importance of face to face is still critical for team work in my opinion.” Since the number of people willing to break away from the standard working hours is increasing, we can consider franchising a good example that flexible work is not about slacking off. As Holly Pither concludes: “After all it’s not the hours worked but what you do in that time that’s important.” october 2018 | elitefranchise
People.indd 2
79
21/09/2018 10:52
I’m fed up with other people taking credit for work I’ve done
I’m not appreciated at all
I want to be my own boss
I put in the hard work in what I earn
Running your own business doesn’t have to be a pipe dream With a Techclean franchise you can be up and running in weeks. Techclean are the UK’s leading expert in specialist IT cleaning services. With franchises available in your area, we’re looking for good communicators with an aptitude for sales and marketing to run their own locally based business.
• WORK FROM HOME • TERRITORIES AVAILABLE THROUGHOUT THE UK • NET MARGINS OF OVER 55% • HUGE AND GROWING MARKET • REPEAT BUSINESS • EXTENSIVE ON-GOING BUSINESS SUPPORT
Request a free information pack at techclean.co.uk/contact or email franchise@thebardongroup.co.uk techclean, Unit 2 Cartwright Court, Forest Business Park, Bardon, Leicestershire, LE67 1UE 01530 513300 • franchise@thebardongroup.co.uk
Untitled-2 13 Untitled-9
24/09/2018 09/01/2018 18:00 16:01
Love fashion, live your passion with Suit the City Join a leading business in a growing market, beating the current trends in retail Supply professional clients with made-to-measure, luxury garments: you will have a high rate of repeat business and referrals Low overheads - no stock, no waste and you can work from a small city centre studio Build your business with the aid of a team of Consultant Tailors all trained by Suit the City Full training and support is given during the first three months and then on an on-going basis For more information please call us or visit our website
www.suitfranchise.com
01494 880790
The MJB Franchise Programme is a tried and tested programme, designed to enable you to run your own successful consultancy. Grow a business with your coach, with you every step of the way Book your complimentary discovery session and start your growth journey today! www.mjbgraham.com/franchise • michael.graham@mjbgraham.com
half pages copy.indd 1
25/09/2018 15:15
Heating up your business prospec t s
UK WIDE FRANCHISE OPPORTUNITIES Aire Serv ® is part of The Dwyer Group®, one of the world’s largest parent companies of home service brands with over 3,200 franchisees worldwide, including Bright & Beautiful®, Countrywide Grounds Maintenance ®, Drain Doctor ®, and Mr. Electric ® in the UK. Join this exciting network now and start building your own heating and cooling franchise business.
01295 983412 LeadingTheServiceIndustry.co.uk
SET UP YOUR OWN SUCCESSFUL SHOWROOM Décor Walls & Flooring are one of the leading distributors of PVC wall and ceiling panels and Luxury Vinyl Flooring (LVT) in the UK. Our products provide homeowners and commercial clients with an attractive and cost-effective way to update their walls and flooring offering a genuine alternative to bathroom tiles. Our panels are easy and quick to fit and hygienic, dispensing with the need for grout, and deliver a beautiful, low maintenance finish.
Commercial markets including hotels and restaurants, offices, clubs, gyms and sports venues Potential is enormous with limited competition Increased turnover by over 70% in last 24 months No previous sector experience is required Opportunity to open multiple showrooms in their exclusive territory
DECOR WALLS & FLOORING
column_bfa.indd 1
07557 900840
harry@decorwallsandflooring.co.uk
24/09/2018 17:57
Due to increased demand for arts & crafts classes, parties and events, the award-winning Creation Station are looking for proactive and friendly people to run their own successful franchise.
Rated 5-Star by customers on Trustpilot and in an independent survey, franchise owners rated the franchise as 5-Star.
Would you love to be your own boss, doing something you love with the backing of an established, tried and trusted brand? Request your free information pack today.
Over 120 people already enjoy running their own rewarding franchise.To check if your area is available and for more info call Maggie today on 01395 29700.
s so pleased my area was still available as The Creation Station really ticks all the boxes for me and my family.� Inspiring imaginations in North Watford, Hertfordshire
thecreationstation.co.uk/run-your-own-franchise Creation Station FP.indd 1 new tcs ad.indd 1 Untitled-1 1 Untitled-2
As seen on.
01395 239700 07/12/2017 11:44 10:51 02/02/2018 03/08/2018 12:18 12/01/2018 17:48
JEFF AND LISE WHITTLE
Don’t stop the presses
Over nine sometimes rough years as franchisees of Minuteman Press Ayr, the printing franchise, Jeff and Lise Whittle have been able to plant seeds for their children’s future with employment opportunities By ANGUS SHAW
T
his year Jeff and Lise Whittle are celebrating nearly a decade as franchisees of Minuteman Press Ayr. While joining the printing company has provided plenty of challenges, they’ve also been able to see their kids grow up and even join the company – something many can only dream of. The story took off when Jeff was fed up with his previous demanding engineering career and its abysmal work-life balance. Joining a Polish company further exacerbated the situation when his travel commitments increasingly came before his family ones. “It was basically weekly commuting to Europe where I’d have to stay and miss my family growing up,” he recalls. So when he was
made redundant Jeff had his fill of the industry and no desire to chase another job. “After 100 applications I thought, ‘I really don’t want to do this again,’” he says. “I decided I wanted to do something different and become my own boss.” His wife had previously sacrificed her own jewellery business to care for their young family so once the chance for self-ownership returned, she was just as gung-ho as her husband. The decision to go into franchising came after Jeff hit the books to find out what to do next. “I saw some articles that said only two out of ten independent businesses survive when starting but nine out of ten franchisees survive,” he recalls. While franchising
was clearly the way forward, the couple was still left with the challenge of finding the best venture for them. The solution came when a neighbour recommended a franchise show in Glasgow, which was where Jeff came across Minuteman Press. And it’s safe to say the concept spoke to his engineering forte. “I saw some similarities, came home afterwards and had a long chat with Lise,” he says. Given her father worked with magazine printing in his own business, she was equally thrilled about the prospect. But before taking the plunge, they did their due diligence. In fact, the franchisor encouraged them to go out and talk with other franchisees to ensure joining the franchise was right for them. “They didn’t push, hurry us or anything at all,” Lise remembers. “It was always very much ‘if you’re not happy, go and think about it.’” Not only did these talks ensure the budding franchisees of the company’s strong family-focus but also that the franchisor would back them. “There was just nothing but support really from Minuteman,” she says. With the paperwork wet with signatures, the couple soon touched down in New York for a fortnight of training with Minuteman. “The training was excellent,” says Jeff. During two intense weeks the couple was taught how to operate the equipment and everything else needed to make a success of the venture. And they really took the training seriously. “We invested our life savings into this so we knew we had to make it work,” he says.
84 elitefranchise | october 2018
Profile.indd 1
21/09/2018 11:20
JEFF AND LISE WHITTLE
Fresh back from the training and having selected a location, the couple set out to find their first clients. “We couldn’t have done it just by opening a store and waiting for people to come,” he stresses. To spread the word, the couple joined the local chamber of commerce and began networking within the community. Additionally, Minuteman’s area manager helped them take their first shaky steps and it wasn’t long before they secured their inaugural order from a client. “We’ve been supplying them for eight and a half years with printing since the first day,” Jeff says. However, while the prospect of increasing footfall looked promising, the first year was still extremely tough. “We worked so hard,” says Lise. “There was too much work for four people, we did day shifts and night shifts. The dawn was breaking and there was still collating, rolling, printing and cutting to be done.” But despite their efforts, they still struggled to make ends meet. “I remember one day walking along the street and picking up a two-pence coin off the pavement and thinking ‘I need that coin in my purse,’” she recalls. “That was the lowest point in my life really.”
I remember one day walking along the street and picking up a two-pence coin off the pavement and thinking ‘I need that coin in my purse’
Luckily, things soon improved. “A wonderful customer who happened to be a friend of mine walked through the door with a big order,” Lise says. This huge order and the continuous support from the franchisor meant that after 18 months the franchise was finally out of the red and into the black. “We just thought ‘phew, we’re saved,’” she remembers. Ever since, the couple has also been able to provide part-time work opportunities for their three children. “We haven’t pressurised them at anytime,” Jeff says. And despite the fact their youngest Lara became a full-time graphic designer with the franchise in November 2017, the franchisees are adamant that merit always goes before blood in the business. “I can rely on Lara but I’m very lucky with my other graphic designers as well,” he says. “They’re all very good even though they’re not family members.” While the couple isn’t looking to retire any time soon, they leave it open if their kids or potential grandkids may take over the business some time in the future or not. “Not on the cards at the moment”, Lise concludes. “But it’s something we would look forward to.”
october 2018 | elitefranchise
Profile.indd 2
85
21/09/2018 11:21
ADVERTISING FEATURE
VeriSmart Inventories smart verification, smart investment Be VeriSmart and buy your own ready-made franchised business within the UK’s surging and recession-proof rental property industry
O
ur commitment to keeping landlords legal and tenants safe has seen VeriSmart Inventories growing dramatically over the last few years with many new franchisees joining the organisation, some earning more than £100,000 a year. Those joining this property revolution come from all walks of life and are able to grow a successful business, some even have many employees. Industry expert Jonathan Senior created the model after noting that the rental sector was growing rapidly as fewer people could afford to buy their own homes. He was also aware that the required inventories were being compiled with pen on paper, were inconsistent across the sector and that the entire system was due a technological overhaul. This led to the development of VeriSmart Inventories, a unique and copyrighted smart verification system. Unlike other systems, VeriSmart franchisees use a bespoke paperfree system using voice recognition technology that automatically lays out an inventory in seconds to which high definition pictures are simply added. All franchisees are able to examine properties in a unique way with an expert eye and list everything needed to meet legal requirements. All inventories are then sent electronically to landlords or agents and to tenants for online verification. Each report is detailed and accurate and the process leads to less disagreements between parties and the ones that do arise are more easily resolved, which is all good news for any budding franchisee to hear. 86 ELITEFRANCHISE | OCTOBER 2018
Jonathan Senior
And that is not all, franchisees also offer a host of additional services that keep landlords legal and tenants safe. These include legionella and fire risk assessments, proper smoke and carbon monoxide alarm testing, housing health and safety rating reporting and portable appliance testing, energy performance certificates and more. VeriSmart’s ability to offer such swift and detailed reports along with the wide range of added services is the reason why more of the nation’s property rental industry is choosing this fast-growing brand. When both landlord and tenants are in favour of the same thing you know you’re on to a winner. So what do you get from us when you become a VeriSmart franchisee?
Training We offer comprehensive training to all new franchisees, including some reallife and practical experience. Our highly qualified trainers have worked with all our new entrepreneurs who are of all ages and backgrounds. The simplicity of our system means training does not take long and we are able to help you quickly understand the legal elements of the sector. The training is on-going. We keep you up-to-date on all legislation with dedicated person-to-person exchanges and online webinars. Agreement You will receive a transferable franchise agreement - facilitating a family income for life.
ADVERTISING FEATURE
Territory You will get your own franchise territory or postcodes to work within meaning you own your area. We are rolling out a nationwide programme so be sure to register your interest for your preferred postcode before it gets snapped up. Sales and support We’re not all born sellers, therefore we’ll show you the tips that work. Moreover, we’ll also help you get started by visiting your area, targeting potential clients alongside you and we’ll help you to sign them up. Agents don’t usually enjoy doing inventories themselves, and when they hear how quickly and cost-effectively you, as a VeriSmart franchisee can do it for them, they will often bite your hand off.
Marketing We’ll assist in marketing for your business, providing materials, tips and helping advance brand awareness. You will receive an introductory marketing bundle and full colour brochures that will demonstrate your competitive edge. Business growth Our support will help the development of your business in your area. We’re on the end of the phone and happily share any information, knowledge or experience that might assist. We also have industry experts who work with us and can offer solutions in specific areas, such as property law, dispute resolution, tenancy deposit protection schemes and much more besides. Free helpline We offer a free property lettings helpline for any client using our booking system. It’s just another thing our franchisees can offer that sets us apart. Conference As well as regular regional meetings, every year we have a get-together conference where we have expert industry guest speakers. Franchisees get an opportunity to discuss the industry, network and share best practice and tips. Your safety, our concern We’ve signed up to Suzy’s Code, named after Suzy Lamplugh, an estate agent who went missing in 1986 after having arranged an appointment to meet a client for a house viewing. The code was devised by the Suzy Lamplugh Trust, which works to reduce the risk of violence and aggression in society through campaigning, education and support. With our licensees and clerks often working alone we want to do all we can to improve their safety and reduce risks. VeriSmart Inventories’ founder Senior said: “I still get a thrill when a new franchisee starts and begins to build a company for themselves using the model and technology we have created. “There is a great camaraderie between franchisees which means they often assist each other to increase brand awareness, which benefits everyone. “We still have a few opportunities across the country with new franchisees joining weekly.”
Visit www.verismart.biz for more information
Jonathan Senior
OCTOBER 2018 | ELITEFRANCHISE
87
GOING OVERSEAS
Cross-border franchising BY KATE LEGG, CEO, KOMERSE
If you’re planning on taking your franchise overseas you better ensure you know about all the regulatory hoops you’ll have to jump through
O
nce a franchise network is firmly established in the UK, many franchisors look to export the system overseas. This can open a whole new market but does raise a number of legal, regulatory and practical considerations. The first and most important thing is to consider whether the business system will work in the new location. There is no guarantee a model which works well in one country will translate into a successful franchise in another with different culture, customs and local market conditions. It’s therefore always worth testing the system with a pilot operation in the target country before incurring the costs and time of a full launch. The pilot should run for at least a year. This will give an opportunity to identify and solve any problems, understand local legal and regulatory requirements, local labour market conditions and other areas where the system can be tailored to better reflect the local conditions in the overseas territory. Having decided to proceed, there are several ways a franchise can expand cross-border. Direct franchising The first option is for the franchisor to issue franchise agreements directly to franchisees in the new country in the same way they would issue agreements directly to its home franchisees. This will usually only be appropriate where the home territory and target country are geographically close to each other and have very similar cultures, customs and regulatory requirements. For example, that would work well for expansions from Germany to Austria, USA to Canada or UK to Ireland. This is because a key feature of the franchise system is that the franchisor is able to support its franchisees and 82 ELITEFRANCHISE | XXXX 88 OCTOBER 2018 2018
police the network. This will be more difficult if franchisees are spread across a wide area in multiple countries. Equally, the franchisor may not have enough local knowledge about the target country to be able to properly advise and support franchisees. For example, the franchisor may not be familiar with local employment practices or legal requirements. This arrangement may also cause tax difficulties where franchise and other fees are paid by a franchisee in one country to a franchisor in another.
GOING OVERSEAS
There is no guarantee that a model which works well in one country will translate into a successful franchise in a country with different culture, customs and local market conditions Master franchise or joint venture In view of the difficulties of direct franchising overseas, many franchisors will seek the involvement of a partner from the target country. This allows the franchisor to benefit from both the partner’s local knowledge and have boots on the ground to provide support to franchisees and control the system. This is typically achieved by entering into a joint venture and/or master franchise agreement. In a joint venture, both the franchisor and the local partner will take a stake in the business. In the case of a master franchise, the franchisor will grant the local partner a franchise for the whole of the target country. The master franchisee will then recruit local franchisees and be responsible for supporting and policing them. Franchise fees are shared between the franchisor and master franchisee. A variation to the master franchise agreement is a franchise development agreement. This is similar to a master franchise agreement except the franchise developer will be required to open and operate its own outlets rather than recruiting franchisees to do so. The main disadvantage with these approaches is that the franchisor hands over control to the master franchisee or franchise developer and is wholly dependent on them for the success of the business in the new territory. The franchisor retains more control in a joint venture arrangement but the extent of its power will depend on the terms of the specific agreement. Local branch or subsidiary Another option would be for the franchisor to open a local branch or subsidiary in the target country. This has the advantage that the franchisor retains full control over the new market and doesn’t have to share their fees with a third party. However, this method requires the franchisor to commit substantial time and resources to setting up a new branch. Also, the lack of local knowledge may still be an issue.
Protecting the brand However a franchisor chooses to expand overseas, protecting the brand in the local area will remain a priority. Typically, this involves exploiting a number of rights including protecting the brand name and logo with trademarks. There are several options available for international trademark protection, including applying for local protection in each individual state, making a single application for a community trademark for protection across the EU or seeking protection under various international agreements in which countries agree to reciprocal arrangements to respect each other’s national trademark protections. Similarly, local regimes for protecting the manual, knowhow and system, which in the UK are typically protected by copyright and confidentiality, vary from country to country. There may also be novel requirements in specific states that the franchisor ought to be aware of. For example, it’s common practice for UK franchise agreements to state that the goodwill in the brand belongs to the franchisor. However, in Germany franchisors can be required to compensate the franchisee for loss of goodwill when the franchise agreement terminates. Regulation There can be big differences in the extent to which the franchise industry is regulated across different countries. For example, in the UK, franchising is largely unregulated compared to the US where extensive rules and obligations apply. In some territories – noteably France, Spain, Italy and parts of the US – franchisors are required to comply with formal pre-contract disclosure requirements which don’t apply elsewhere. The franchise agreement will be subject to local contract law which will differ from one jurisdiction to another. Brexit No article on international franchising would be complete without a word or two on Brexit. At the time of writing, the position is that a two-year transition period will run from 30 March 2019 to 31 December 2020. During that time, most EU law will continue to apply in the UK. It’s unlikely that Brexit will have much of an impact on UK regulation of franchise agreements but it’s still too early to tell what the wider implications – whether good or bad – might be. OCTOBER XXXX 2018 2018 || ELITEFRANCHISE ELITEFRANCHISE
89 83
ADVERTISING FEATURE
Make money from your sofa
Whether you’re struggling with your present job or looking for a change of direction, here are some of the experiences of Time For You’s franchisees
A
s a single mum of two children, Julia Wilkins knew that she would need to earn more money than her old job in cycle proficiency could provide, especially when her daughter announced that she wanted to pursue her dream of becoming an actress. “I realised then that I needed to have my own business”, explains Wilkins, who after doing a bit of research discovered that franchising was the safest route. “I was also doing a bit of cleaning for other people and discovered Time For You,” she adds. “When I learned that as one of their franchisees you don’t have to do the cleaning and send someone else to do it instead, I thought ‘this is the franchise for me’.” Ahead of the launch of her first Time For You franchise in Hampshire, Wilkins attended the company’s comprehensive training programme, which covered all aspects of operating the franchise. “The training was superb and I was amazed at the happy atmosphere the franchisors Freddie and Ruth Rayner cultivate among their franchisees from the very start,” enthuses Wilkins. “Freddie is only too pleased to
As this is a management role, you will do no cleaning yourself
90 elitefranchise | OCTOBER 2018
TimeForYou Advertorial dps.indd 1
24/09/2018 17:31
ADVERTISING FEATURE
visit and help his franchisees during their launches to ensure they have customers from the outset.” With support not only from the Time For You head office but also her fellow franchisees, Wilkins was delighted that within her first year she had built up a regular database of 100 clients. “There is no invoicing involved in running a Time For You franchise, as it is a directdebit-based business with clients paying in advance, so there are never any cash flow concerns,” says Wilkins. Time For You changed my life Time For You’s Edinburgh franchisee Catherine Fitch says: “I invested in Time For You just 12 months ago. As a single parent and with little borrowed money, it was important that whatever franchise I picked was the right one. Although my family are fantastic and would help wherever they can, I needed my new business to work around my mum duties at home. Time For You was ideal: a proven formula that you can work around your family, from home. By following the Time For You formula I was soon taking on clients and making a residual income.
“Finding clients is simple and effective and the growth rate is astounding”
TimeForYou Advertorial dps.indd 2
Time For You has changed my families life. It truly is a great business.” We can finally live the life we want Caroline Kirby, Time For You’s Tunbridge Wells franchisee, advises: “You are probably unsure which franchise to go for. When I was looking there was so many different greatsounding franchises to choose from. However, there was only one that offered me a money-back guarantee. Initially, this – combined with working from home, flexible working hours and great reviews from existing franchisees – convinced me to join Time For You. By following the easy Time For You business model, I quickly built up my very own successful Time For You franchise. My family now enjoys a lifestyle that only a couple years ago seemed so out of reach.” Change for the better Amanda and Ian Thompson, Time For You’s Aylesbury franchisees, say: “Having been made redundant, we decided we should invest in a Time For You franchise. “The training was great fun and very effective. We have found Time For You to be a service people needed as opposed to one that had to be sold. Finding clients is simple and effective and the growth rate is astounding. We now feel very assured about the future which was never the case in our previous employment. It also gives us a lot of free time to spend on the things we like to do.” time4ufranchise.com
24/09/2018 17:31
Untitled-2 1
24/09/2018 18:01
Untitled-2 2
24/09/2018 18:02
FRANCHISE FOCUS
AUTOMOTIVE Chips Away
Mac Tools
Restore Automotive
£: 29,995+VAT
£: 5,000
£: 24,997
chipsaway.co.uk
mactools-franchise.co.uk
restorefranchise.com
Revive!
Snap-on Tools
SuperGlass
£: 27,500
£: 16,037
£: 15,000
revivefranchise.com
snaponfranchise.co.uk
superglassukfranchise.com
ActionCOACH
Business Doctors
CPA Online
£: 27,000+
£: n/a
£: 7,375+VAT
actioncoach.co.uk
businessdoctorsfranchise.com
cpa.co.uk
Expense Reduction Analysts
Falcon Commercial
Jackson Fire & Security
£: 39,900
£: n/a
£: 39,500+VAT
erafranchise.net
falconcommercial.co.uk
jacksonfire.co.uk/franchise
MJB Graham Consultancy
PA4You
Platinum Business Partners
£: P.O.A
£: n/a
£: 30,000+VAT
www.mjbgraham.com/franchise
pa4you.co.uk
platinumbusinesspartners.co.uk
Regus
The HR Dept
Zeb PA
£: n/a
£: n/a
£: n/a
regus.co.uk
hrdept.co.uk
zebpafranchise.co.uk
Ableworld
Bluebird Care
Caremark
£:75,000
£: 115,000
£: 100,000
ableworldfranchise.co.uk
bluebirdcarefranchise.co.uk
caremarkfranchises.com
Fosse Healthcare
Heritage Healthcare
Home Instead Senior Care
£: 50,000
£: 29,995+VAT
£: 90,000+
fossefranchise.co.uk
heritagehealthcarefranchising.co.uk
homeinstead.co.uk/franchise
Kare Plus
Radfield Home Care
Right at Home
£: 40,000
£: 75,000
£: 37,000+VAT
franchising.kareplus.co.uk
radfieldhomecarefranchising.co.uk
rightathomefranchising.co.uk
Arising Cleaning Franchise
Betterclean Services
Blue Sky Guttering Ltd
£: 2,995+
£: 19,600+
£: n/a
arisingcleaningfranchise.co.uk
bettercleanfranchise.co.uk
franchise.blueskyguttering.co.uk
BUSINESS
CARE
CLEANING
SPONSORED BY
WWW.FRANCHISESALES.COM
FRANCHISE FOCUS
CLEANING Bright & Beautiful
Clear Brew
Deluxe Window Cleaning
£: 17,995+
£: 15,000+VAT
£: n/a
brightandbeautifulhome.com
clearbrew.co.uk
deluxewindowcleaningfranchise.co.uk
Drain Doctor
Dublcheck
Dyno
£: 21,000+VAT
£: 9,950
£: c250,000
ukplumbingfranchise.co.uk
dublcheck.co.uk
dyno.com
Envirogroup
Fantastic Services
FiltaFry
£: 23,950+VAT
£: n/a
£: 14,950+VAT
envirogroupfranchising.com
joinfantastic.com
filtafryplus.co.uk/franchise
Jan-Pro Cleaning Systems
Jani-King
Merry Maids
£: 1,000 - 5,000
£: n/a
£: 19,995+VAT
jan-pro.com/franchising
janiking.co.uk
merrymaidsfranchise.co.uk
Metro Rod
Minster
Molly Maid
£: 100,000+VAT
£: 28,225+
£: £16,975+VAT
metrorod.co.uk
minsterfranchise.co.uk
mollymaid.co.uk/franchise
MouldDoctor
Ovenclean
Ovenu
£: 33,000
£: 14,995
£: 9,995
moulddoctor.co.uk
ovenclean.com/franchise
ovenufranchise.co.uk
Prima Master Dry Cleaners
ServiceMaster Clean
techclean
£: n/a
£: 26,150
£: 19,500+VAT
primafranchise.co.uk
servicemastercleanfranchise.co.uk
techclean.co.uk
Time For You
Wilkins Chimney Sweep
Zero Dry Time
£: 14,750 +VAT
£: 13,100+VAT
£: 24,950+VAT
time4ufranchise.com
franchisechimneysweep.co.uk
zerodrytime.com
Cafe2U
Coffee-bike
Esquires Coffee
£: 26,650+VAT
£: 7,490
£: 22,500
cafe2u.com/uk
coffee-bike.com/en
esquirescoffee.co.uk
art-K
Clever Tutors
ComputerXplorers
£: 10,000
£: 3,000
£: 29,500
art-k.co.uk/become-a-franchisee
clevertutors.com
computerxplorers.co.uk
diddi dance
Helen O’Grady
Kiddley Divey
£: 4,995+VAT
£: 15,000
£: 5,997+VAT
diddidance.com
helenogrady.co.uk
kiddleydivey.co.uk/join-our-team
COFFEE
CHILDREN
SPONSORED BY
WWW.FRANCHISESALES.COM
FRANCHISE FOCUS
CHILDREN Kumon
Mad Science
Magikats Maths and English
£: 3,000
£: 23,500
£: 10,000+VAT
kumon.co.uk
madscience.org
educationalfranchise.co.uk
Mathnasium
Monkey Music
Popkidz
£:40,000
£: 12,975+VAT
£: 25,000
mathnasium.com/franchise
monkeymusic.co.uk
popkidz.co.uk
Puddle Ducks
Spaghetti Maths
Sport4Kids
£: 18,975
£: £10,750
P.O.A
puddleducks.com/franchising
franchise.spaghettimaths.co.uk
www.s4kfranchising.com
Stagecoach
Swimtime
The Creation Station
£: 14,995+VAT
£: 18,000+VAT
£: 7,999+VAT
stagecoachfranchise.com
swimtime.org
thecreationstation.co.uk
The Detective Project
Turtle Tots
Tutor Doctor
£: 9,995
£: 13,000+VAT
£: 49,700
thedetectiveproject.co.uk
turtletots.com
franchise.tutordoctor.co.uk
ENERGY Gas-Elec
Green Square
£: 16,500+VAT
£: 75,000
gas-elec.co.uk/franchise
greensquare.co.uk/renewablefranchise
FASHION & CLOTHING Mobile Workwear
Noa Noa
xf the City
£: n/a
£: 40,000
£: 19,950 - 22,950
mobileworkwear.com/Franchise
noanoa.com
suitfranchise.com
BBX
DNS Accountants
Fifo Capital
£: n/a
£: 25,000
£: 25,000
bbxuk.com
dnsaccountantsfranchise.co.uk
fifocapital.co.uk
Rosemary Bookkeeping
TaxAssist Accountants
The Interface Financial Group
£: 16,970
£: 36,950+VAT
£: n/a
rosemaryfranchise.co.uk
taxassistfranchise.co.uk
interfacefinancial.co.uk
Beatons Tearooms
Broccoli Pizza and Pasta
Chopstix Noodle Bar
£: 55,000
£: 100,000
£: 59,000
beatonstearooms.co.uk
broccolifranchise.com
chopstixgroup.com
FINANCE
rosemary an altogether friendly bookkeeping experience
®
FOOD & DRINK
SPONSORED BY
WWW.FRANCHISESALES.COM
FRANCHISE FOCUS
FOOD & DRINK Cup the Cake
Gallone’s Ice Cream Parlours
Harry Ramsden’s
£: 377+
£: 14,999
£: 150,000 - 250,000
cupthecake.com
gallonesfranchise.com
harryramsdens.co.uk/franchise
Incredible Ice Cream Company
Maston’s
McDonald’s
£: 25,000+
£: 25,000
£: 400,000 - 800,000
incredibleicecream-franchise.co.uk
marstonscareers.co.uk
mcdonalds.co.uk/franchising
Papa John’s
Riverford
Southern Fried Chicken
£: 100,000+
£: n/a
£: 125,000+
papajohns.co.uk/franchise
riverford.co.uk/franchise
franchise.southernfriedchicken.com
Subway
Warrens Bakery
£: 86,000 - 222,000
£: 18,500
subwayfranchising.com
warrensbakery.co.uk
HOME IMPROVEMENT & GARDEN Aire Serv
BoConcept
Countrywide Grounds Maintenance
£: 18,000+VAT
£: 100,000
£: 44,950+VAT
leadingtheserviceindustry.co.uk
boconcept.com
countrywidegrounds.com/franchise
Decor Walls & Flooring
Just Shutters
Mr Electric
£: n/a
£: 25,000
£: 26,238
decorcladdingcentre.co.uk
shutter-franchise.co.uk
franchise.mrelectric.com
Schmidt
Shuttercraft
TruGreen
£: n/a
£: 25,000
£: 28,000+VAT
www.home-design.schmidt
shuttercraft-franchise.co.uk
trugreenfranchise.co.uk
Concept Building Solutions
Concordia
Moreland Insurance
£: 32,995+VAT
£: n/a
£: n/a
concept-solutions.co.uk
concordia-employment.co.uk
morelandinsurance.co.uk
Diamond Logistics
InXpress
Mail Boxes Etcs
£: 14,997+VAT
£: n/a
£: 25,000+
diamondlogistics.co.uk
gb.inxpress.com/franchise-opportunities
mbe.co.uk/franchise
Pack & Send
The Original Poster Compay
Two Men And A Truck
£: 29,500
£: 15,000
£: 30,000
packsend.co.uk
originalposter.com
twomenandatruck.co.uk
INSURANCE
MAIL & COURIER
World Options £: 29,995+VAT worldoptions.com
SPONSORED BY
WWW.FRANCHISESALES.COM
FRANCHISE FOCUS
MARKETING Signarama
Vibe Marketing
£: 25,000 - 45,000
£: 14,995+VAT
franchise.signarama.co.uk
vibemarketing.co.uk
PET SERVICES Barking Mad
Now Boarding Pet Hotels
OSCAR
£: 10,000+VAT
£: n/a
£: 8,995+VAT
barkingmad.uk.com
nowboardingpethotels.co.uk/franchise
oscar.co.uk
Trophy Pet Foods
We Love Pets
£: 13,995+VAT
£: 9,999+VAT
trophypetfoods.co.uk
welovepetsfranchise.co.uk
PHOTOGRAPHY ABC Photography Limited
Photography for Little People
White Box
£: n/a
£: 15,000
£: n/a
abcphotography.co.uk
photographyforlittlepeoplefranchise.co.uk
whiteboxphotography.co.uk
Kall Kwik
Recognition Express
Signs Express
£: 50,000 +shop fit +VAT
£: 35,000+VAT
£: 40,000+
kallkwik.co.uk
recognition-express.com
franchise.signsexpress.co.uk
Voucher Packs £: 10,000 - 12,5000 voucherpacks.co.uk
PROPERTY Agency Express
Belvoir
Century 21
£: 24,500+VAT
£: 22,500+VAT
£: 23,500
agencyexpress.co.uk
belvoirfranchise.com
century21franchise.co.uk
HomeXperts
Martin & Co Estate Agents
Platinum Property Partners
£: 19,995+VAT
£: n/a
£: 41,450+
home-xperts.co.uk
propertyfranchise.co.uk
platinumpropertypartners.co.uk
Redstone Lettings
Surelet Property Rental Services
VeriSmart
£: 14,995+
£: 9,500+VAT
£: 9,000+VAT
redstonesfranchise.co.uk
SureLetFranchise.com
verismart.biz
SPONSORED BY
WWW.FRANCHISESALES.COM
FRANCHISE FOCUS
RECRUITMENT Driver Hire Nationwide
Law Staff Legal Recruitment
Select Appointments
£: 35,000+
£: n/a
£: 24,750
driverhirefranchise.co.uk
law-staff.co.uk
selectfranchising.co.uk
Award Leisure
CeX
Cash Generator
£: 77,000
£: 150,000 - £250,000
£: 80,000
awardleisurefranchise.co.uk
webuy.com/franchising
cgfranchising.co.uk
Local Appliance Rentals
One Stop
£: 50,000+
£: 92pw+VAT
localappliancerentals.co.uk
openaonestop.co.uk
RETAIL
SPORT & FITNESS A-Star Sports
Anytime Fitness
Be A Better You
£: n/a
£: 110,000
£: 20,000
a-starsports.co.uk
anytimefitness.co.uk
beabetteryou.com
Body Street
Busylizzy
Energie Fitness
£: P.O.A
£: 17,000+VAT
£: 95,000
www.bodystreetuk.co.uk
busylizzyfranchise.co.uk
energiefranchise.com
Fitness Space
Premier
YourZone45
£: 24,950
£: 14,950 ex. VAT
£: 60,000
fitnessspace.com
makesportyourbusiness.com
yourzone45.co.uk
TECHNOLOGY & SOFTWARE Eazi-Apps
Fone Doctor
Project M Asia
£: 7,995
£: 58,000
£: from 25,000+VAT
eazi-apps-business.co.uk
fonedoctoruk.co.uk
projectmasia.com
Trivaeo Cloud Services £: 14,995 trivaeo.com
TELECOMMUNICATIONS Auditel
Challenger Mobile Communications
£: 37,950+VAT
£: n/a
auditelfranchise.co.uk
challenger-mobile.co.uk
TRAINING Pitman Training
Sandler Training
£: 22,500+VAT
£: 55,000+VAT
pitman-franchising.com
sandlerfranchising.co.uk
SPONSORED BY
WWW.FRANCHISESALES.COM
DISCOVERY DAYS
01527 549 593
LeadingTheServiceIndustry.co.uk
Heating up your business prospec t s UK WIDE FRANCHISE OPPORTUNITIES Aire Serv ® is part of The Dwyer Group®, looking after over 3,100 franchisees globally; Bright & Beautiful®, Mr Electric ®, Drain Doctor® and Countrywide Grounds® in the UK. Join this exciting business, needed all year round by commercial and residential customers. As part of one of the world’s largest franchisors, you’re in safe hands.
SEARCHING FOR A CAREER CHANGE WITH A FUTURE?
Arrange a meeting with us today and find out if we are right for you!
Request more information enquiries.uk@boconcept.com
BOOK A DISCOVERY MEETING WITH US BY EMAILING: opportunities@century21uk.com or call 0115 902 1002 A meeting is a chance for you to find out more about the CENTURY 21 team and whether it is the right fit for you. 0115 902 1002 opportunities@century21uk.com www.century21franchise.co.uk
100 elitefranchise | october 2018
Discovery Days copy.indd 1
24/09/2018 17:33
DISCOVERY DAYS
UK’S NO.1 FRYER MANAGEMENT SERVICE WEEKLY REPEAT “MAN IN A VAN” FRANCHISE HIGH-DEMAND, EXCLUSIVE TERRITORY VIRTUALLY NO COMPETITORS
Call us on 01788 550100 to find out more www.filtafryplus.co.uk | dslater@filtagroup.com
Could YOU be the next UK Franchisee? TAKE CONTROL OF YOUR FUTURE
• An innovative business model • 15 -2 0 % operating profit • P rov id ing care the way clients and families want it • Award winning suppor t CONTACT US TODAY
make their
FUTURE your
Call us now on 0800 854 714 or visit kumon.co.uk
BUSINESS • the UK’s largest supplementary education provider • proven business model • marketing support • comprehensive training
www.homeinstead.co.uk/franchise 01925 730 273 franchise@homeinstead.co.uk
Discover how to MAKE MONEY and MAKE A DIFFERENCE! With a Mathnasium Learning Centre franchise you have the opportunity to build your own business, be your own boss and make a great living whilst making a difference. Join us for a discovery day and experience the Mathnasium Method and Model, held in Manchester and Hertfordshire.
Love fashion, live your passion with Suit the City Join a leading business in a booming market, beating the current trends in retail. Work from a small studio and build your business with the aid of a team of Consultant Tailors all trained by Suit the City.
Book your place at mathnasium.co.uk or call 0161 791 0686 Standard call charges apply
www.suitfranchise.com
OCTOBER 2018 | ELITEFRANCHISE
101
DISCOVERY DAYS
In business for yourself, but not by yourself... Come and talk to us at our Insight Day in Birmingham 5th - 6th October 2018 www.mcdonalds.co.uk/franchising
Your Discovery Day Invitation
To join us on our next webinar or find out more about Platinum Business Partners go to:
http://bit.ly/PBPDiscovery Register your interest:
01202 652 103
platinumbusinesspartners.co.uk info@platinumbusinesspartners.co.uk
Discover more about our Ovenu Franchise with an informative, one to one chat over coffee. Contact us today and we'll put a date in the diary.
Butcher, baker and cabinet maker... our franchisees come from all works of life! But they all have one thing in common. They all wanted to take control of their own destiny and become their own boss.
“The teams that perform the cleaning tasks are always very thorough, professional and quick. I would certainly recommend using them”
Call us to learn about our Discovery Days
Fund Management group
Why choose Techclean? + Experience and credibility + Work from a home environment + Low cost, high margins + Operate in an ever growing market
01189 743 911 ovenufranchise.co.uk
Do you dream of being your own boss? To find out more about our business opportunity visit www.monkeymusicfranchise.co.uk email jointheteam@monkeymusic.co.uk or call 01582 766464.
102 ELITEFRANCHISE | OCTOBER 2018
Discovery Day We want you... The UK’s No1 Dry carpet, upholstery and hard floor cleaners
0800 1 80 40 20
zerodrytime.com/franchise
Franchise Resales
Buy an existing franchise
Foo d
fra
nch
ise
s
Fast Fran Food es chises anchis
Pet fr
Search 100s of franchise resales now Visit bfsale.co.uk/eliteresales
es
chis
Pizza fr is a h c ncehsise n a r f s Coffee
fran n’s e r d l
Chi
rty Prope ise h Franc
Fitness es franchis
rosemary
®
an altogether friendly bookkeeping experience
Merry Maids has been one of the most successful home cleaning franchise operations in the world for the past 37 years, with almost 100 franchises in the UK. If you’d like to hit the ground running, perhaps one of our existing Merry Maids businesses is for you.
Northampton
Investment: £60,000 Established: 2005 Turnover: £140,000
Wigan
SOLD
Investment: £35,000 Established: 2015 Turnover: £40,000
Grantham & Newark Investment: £75,000 Established: 2004 Turnover: £130,000
Bromley & Orpington Investment: £195,000 Established: 2002 Turnover: £340,000
TruGreen is the world’s largest lawn care company. The journey began as a small private company in 1973 which was acquired by ServiceMaster in 1990 and we now serve more than 3.4 million residential and commercial customers throughout the UK and the USA. Be a part of the world’s largest lawn care company with one of our rare resale opportunities. We may also have other areas available for resale as our franchise owners’ circumstances can change at short notice so if you don’t see an area that you might be interested in listed, please still get in contact as we may not have had chance to update our resales information.
South Oxfordshire Investment: £54,000 Established: 2010 Turnover: £54,000
ServiceMaster Clean Contract Services deliver office cleaning, commercial cleaning and contract cleaning services to businesses across the UK. Our rare resale opportunities benefit from employees, equipment and customers, so that you can continue to grow a profitable business. We also have vacant territory available in Scotland, Yorkshire, the Midlands, Norfolk & Kent.
Bournemouth & Poole Investment: £80,000 Established: 2014 Turnover: £120,000
Glasgow & East Strathcylde Investment: £300,000 Established: 2003 Turnover: £478,000
Over 4 million businesses in the UK require a bookkeeping service and you can be a partner in supplying it! Whether you are a qualified or an experienced bookkeeper we have a route to suit you. As a Rosemary Bookkeeping franchise, you can benefit from the following: • Recurring income with average 50% net profit margins • Excellent growth opportunities to build into a management style business • Flexible hours – work from home – keeping costs down • Dedicated support in Bookkeeping, Operations, Sales & Marketing Although we don’t currently have any resale opportunities on the market, we do have vacant territories throughout the UK.
Contact ServiceMaster Ltd today on 0116 275 9005 or email franchisesales@servicemaster.co.uk for more information
sponsored by Resales.indd 1
www.franchisesales.com
25/09/2018 12:04
Buy a coffee franchise. Coffee is big business: 2.2 billion coffee cups are consumed every year in coffee shops. It makes lots of money: Industry turnover is approx. £7.9 billion and sales have increased 10% since 2015. And it’s growing: Analysts predict the coffee shop sector will exceed 30,000 outlets and produce £15 billion turnover by 2025.
Visit FranchiseSales.com to find out more about buying a coffee franchise – and more! Untitled-1 1
02/08/2018 17:31
Jane Maudsley founder & managing director Little Voices
Guilt trip How do we stop feeling guilty about work getting in the way of our personal life? Jane Maudsley of Little Voices has learnt a few great ways to do it over the years
A
s I write this latest diary in the car on my laptop waiting for my daughter’s drama lesson at Little Voices, the performing arts franchise I founded, to finish, I realised that the entire month has been manically busy. It never stops does it? Summer is not downtime just because it’s the holiday season. Along with my priority list at work I have to juggle my family life, which includes children going back to school, shopping and running errands. Some days you don’t know where the time goes and everything starts consuming you. I often struggle to even book a hair appointment, let alone attending one. How do you achieve it all without feeling guilty? When my daughter started high school in September, it really knocked me. It was an emotional moment seeing her all grown up, standing at the bus stop and beaming at the idea of independence. Looking back, I handled the stages of nursery and primary school just fine but no longer having my little buddy in the front seat next to me had me in tears. I realised how life had changed direction again and remembered how I’d spent most of her primary school days immersed in work and was never very attentive on weeknights. I was always answering messages and calls, working and developing my business. But now I have certain strategies I’ve adopted over the years. Being in business for over a decade teaches you a lot and I have certain methods in place to ensure I strike the right balance between my professional and personal life. OCTOBER 2018 | elitefranchise
franchise diaries.indd 1
105
25/09/2018 09:39
My dos and don’ts: I keep weekends sacred for family time. They're free from work and dedicated to pure mum and daughter time. To safeguard this balance, I ensure I don’t have emails sent to my phone. Also, I wake up at 5am every day to get the important things done to drive the business forward. Otherwise in my family time I do what want to do and will say no to any work-related activities. In fact, I’m now planning more days off in advance and blocking chunks of time away from the office. If I don’t put it in the diary and say I’m off then it doesn’t happen. But as a business owner, the advantage we have over our staff is that we always have a choice while those who are employed don’t have that flexibility. The question is whether we're making the best choices? Are we making a decision allowing us to feel successful in our business and fulfilled in our personal life? Time should be spent based on your life priorities. It’s about what you value and shouldn’t be influenced by anyone else’s opinion. Saying no isn’t as easy as it may seem but it's ever so crucial. Because I find the word no so difficult to say I give myself time to ponder my decision. I don’t give an affirmative answer when asked something. Ultimately, I'd like to learn how to work smarter. I am a goal-orientated person and my year is planned, the targets are set and each month has milestones that must be met. To borrow a phrase from
Kate Lester, someone I respect immensely in franchising, she talks about the planes that need to land. I find helpful to organise my future. This means I make time to make phone calls and send emails. To get that right, I plan my days the night before, setting out the overall working week on a Sunday to writing shopping lists and planning the meals. But even with those strategies in place it can still be difficult sometimes to take time off. I’m lucky to have a very supportive partner who ensures I get my me-time and drags me away before I collapse. He makes sure I do the things that are important to me, from time with him and my daughter to seeing friends and exercising to clear my mind and refocus. I also have the very best team any CEO could ask for. They’re so incredibly talented, caring, capable and supportive. If you can create a great team, which is fundamentally the most important thing in business, you’re already winning. By writing this diary I have counselled myself. We can get it all done and feel less guilty – we just have to make better choices. I need to keep honing my skills for getting it all done in the time I have and ensure I schedule in space for my personal life around a 90-hour working week. Guilt is a thought not something tangible, so you can change that mindset through better choices.
106 elitefranchise | OCTOBER 2018
franchise diaries.indd 2
21/09/2018 12:10
Join the most recognised brand within the home cleaning industry. At MOLLY MAID you’ll always have the support you need from people who are not only experts within the sector, but genuinely care for you and your business. Find out more today 01628 583765 aaron.watson@mollymaid.co.uk www.mollymaid.co.uk/franchise
50722 - Elite Franchise Ad 166x120mm v2.indd 1
28/06/2018 13:05
Checkout Your Dream Franchise At the One-Stop-Shop for Franchise Recruitment Profiles Latest News Success Stories Upcoming Exhibitions Dates for Your Diary
www.franchisesupermarket.net
Untitled-1 1
26/02/2018 10:02