ISSN 1744-6988 02 EXPERT

9 771744 698037 ADVICE 9 MISTAKES FRANCHISEES MAKE And how to avoid them CAREER CROSSROADS What 5 people who went from employee to franchisee LESSONS LEARNED FROM THE PANDEMIC Franchise 4 reasons why franchising £3.99 | VOLUME 16 ISSUE 2 what-franchise.com continues to thrive A MARKET I KNEW WITH A MODEL I COULD TRUST Martin Jones explains why he decided to join Shuttercraft

POWERBRANDS FRANCHISES UNDER £25K 12-page special SUPER SIX The options available to would-be investors

PUTTING THE PROP INTO PROPERTY Liam Watts is planning for life after rugby league

PAGE PAGE PAGE FRANCHISE MONEY WELL SAVE YOUR 14 RESEARCH 54 SPENT 88 SANITY This unrivalled insight The key elements of a How new business is a must read first class franchise owners can beat burnout WHAT FRANCHISE 16_2 master_WHAT FRANCHISE 14/07/2020 14:19 Page 2

Supported by a highly experienced group of people, including specialists within each business, Darren Taylor has four brands primed FRANCHISING for further growth over the next decade and beyond.

WILKINS CHIMNEY SWEEP prides itself on providing a clean, reliable and friendly service that offers great value and minimum fuss.They’ve been sweeping for more than 120 years, they must be rather good at it! wilkinschimneysweep.co.uk

StumpBusters have been providing professional tree stump removal services for nearly 25 years, for both domestic and commercial customers. They can clear any size of tree stump and the stump is removed well below the ground www.stumpbusters.co.uk

With over 35 years experience, PVC VENDO operates through a nationwide network of fully trained and highly experienced franchisees, who provide comprehensive interior and exterior commercial vehicle cleaning services. www.pvcvendo.com

Turning pests into profits, TRAAS is a national pest control brand in the Netherlands, and its business model and bespoke systems are set to offer something different from the established names in the UK market. traas-pestcontrol.co.uk

Speak to the man behind the brands – Darren Taylor on 01747 830298 or visit www.taylormadefranchising.co.uk WHAT FRANCHISE 16_2 master_WHAT FRANCHISE 14/07/2020 14:19 Page 3 WHAT FRANCHISE 16_2 master_WHAT FRANCHISE 16/07/2020 15:18 Page 4 CONTENts HIGHLIGHTS

Franchise Franchises Employee To 14 Research 19 Under £25,000 58 Franchisee Experienced two- These proven concepts Find out how brand franchisee Adrian Steel give aspiring entrepreneurs a cost franchising gave these five people provides budding investors with effective way to become their own from different backgrounds a an unrivalled insight into how to boss in a variety of sectors and new lease of life when they found analyse a franchise opportunity business settings themselves at a career crossroads

46 SMALL BUSINESS - BIG BRAND 74 INNOVATIVE EDUCATION PROVIDER COVER STORIES Franchising is a great way to own a fully Logiscool prepares children for success in the formed enterprise digital future 34 A MARKET I KNEW WITH A MODEL I COULD TRUST 65 IN BUSINESS WITH THE BEST 79 THEY HAVE BEEN ABSOLUTELY Martin Jones explains why he Five key points to consider before FANTASTIC decided to join Shuttercraft buying a franchise TaxAssist has guided Lloyd Evans through an unprecedented crisis 40 PUTTING THE PROP FRANCHISE INTO PROPERTY OPPORTUNITIES INSIGHT Liam Watts is planning for life after rugby league 16 ON A MISSION 78 SMALL BUSINESS WORKSHOP WITH Just Cuts is going from strength to ANGIE COATES 50 9 MISTAKES FRANCHISEES strength in the UK Our resident agony aunt answers your MAKE entrepreneurial conundrums And how to avoid them 44 FROM ROCK BOTTOM TO FIGHTING BACK 82 DIGITAL MARKETING 54 MONEY WELL SPENT James Burke now earns a six-figure How to get more punch for your promotional pound The key elements of a first class income with ActionCOACH franchise 47 LEAVING THEIR COMFORT 70 SUPER SIX ZONE The options available to would-be Revive! has been brilliant for Dan franchisees and Natalie Normanton

88 SAVE YOUR SANITY 48 DIGITAL CONNECTIVITY How new business owners can OSCAR Pet Foods used technology to beat burnout assist franchisees during lockdown 53 JUST THE TICKET 90 LESSONS LEARNED FROM Just Shutters combines an enviable THE PANDEMIC lifestyle with a proven franchise model 4 reasons why franchising continues to thrive 56 MORE THAN A TAXI SERVICE The lowdown on Driving Miss Daisy OPINION 66 TAYLOR MADE FOR SUCCESS 11 THE SECTOR’S STRONGER These four franchise brands have TOGETHER ambitious expansion plans Hundreds of franchisees have 69 ETHICAL ALTERNATIVE joined the British Franchise You can build a vital local business Association recently with Ableworld

12 FINDING A WORKABLE 72 KEEPING FRANCHISING SOLUTION IN MIND A collaborative approach is needed to Cafe2U’s chief concern is the happiness 50 overcome COVID-19 challenges and well-being of its franchisees

WHAT-FRANCHISE.COM 5 WHAT FRANCHISE 16_2 master_WHAT FRANCHISE 14/07/2020 14:19 Page 6 FROM THE EDITOR

his month we bring you accounts T of five people from different 58 backgrounds who were all in jobs that left them feeling unfulfilled. Today, their stories still share a similar element: now each ELSEWHERE THIS ISSUE one is running a successful On the cover we described Adrian Steel’s advice on franchise, having successfully researching a franchise as ‘unrivalled insight’. His six tips are made the transition from essential reading if you’re considering buying a franchise. The feature will provide you with a solid foundation from employee to franchisee. which to start your search for the right franchisor to partner The ex-engineer, car industry with. And as someone who heads up franchises with two worker, university graduate, finance professional and different brands, Adrian knows his stuff. former police officer now head up thriving franchises that specialise in kitchen makeovers, children’s ON THE WEB computer classes, fast food, fitness and commercial cleaning. what-franchise.com has had a makeover. As well as a new Most of them didn’t have any prior experience of running their own look homepage, we’ve streamlined our franchise directory so business. They didn’t need to because when you invest in a franchise it’s even more user friendly and now showcase some of the you’re provided with an extensive training programme, an established most popular opportunities available. method of doing business and ongoing support designed to set you on What remains the same is the abundance of expert advice the road to success. available and our free enquiry service, giving you a simple A favourable outcome isn’t a given when you invest in a franchise - it’s way to contact franchisors currently recruiting in the UK. not just a case of paying your money and watching a steady procession of customers beat a path to your door. It takes hard work, dedication, Jeff James resilience and, just as importantly, an ability to follow a proven way of Editor, What Franchise delivering a tried and tested product or service. [email protected] One of the franchisees we spoke to for the feature said that once you accept the commitment and long hours required during the start-up stages, the end result is worth it. It’s a sentiment echoed by the thousands of franchisees who have NEXT ISSUE @whatfranchise become their own boss and have no regrets about the career path they linkedin.com/company chose. I hope their stories give you the inspiration needed to invest in ON SALE: /what-franchise your own franchise business. September 17 facebook.com/whatfranchise what-franchise.com

ADVERTISING DIRECTOR ACCOUNT MANAGER CREDIT CONTROL Richard Davies Tel: 01323 471291 Millie Hall. 01323 471291 Sue Carr Tel: 01206 505903 Email: [email protected] [email protected] EDITOR CIRCULATION MANAGER SENIOR ACCOUNT MANAGERS Jeff James Joseph Gibbons Tel: 01206 505912 Rachael Wenham. 01323 471291 FROM THE INDUSTRY Published by Aceville Publications Ltd [email protected] SUBSCRIPTIONS DESIGNERS Pacific House, Innovation Business PUBLISHER OF CONTRIBUTION Tel: 01795 414667 Adam Barford, Luke Rogers WINNER Park, Eastbourne BN23 6FA. Printed Luke Elliott. 01323 471291 British Franchise in England © Aceville Publications Ltd PUBLISHER INSIDER INFO [email protected] PRINTED IN ENGLAND Association 10 exciting investment opportunities Global The brands looking to expand Matthew Tudor ABC certified circulation: White collar special An extensive guide to this Franchise thriving sector Professional globalfranchisemagazine.com Franchise recruitment How top companies are MASTER, REGIONAL AND INTERNATIONAL FRANCHISING switching up their methods 12,580 January- Affiliate and Supplier FASTSIGNS: Matthew Gilley. 01323 471291 HEAD OF CONTENT (FRANCHISING) NEWSTRADE SALES PROVEN TO ADAPT December 2019 AMID THE PANDEMIC [email protected] James Fell Marketforce. Tel: 0203 1483300 Awards 2019

AUSTRALIA 20-PAGE LEADERSHIP FOCUS: SPECIAL: MUST-READ HOW TO SUPPORT INSIGHT ON © Aceville Publications Ltd YOUR ORGANIZATION FRANCHISING IN TRYING TIMES DOWN UNDER No part of this publication may be copied, broadcast, interpreted, or stored, in any form, for any purpose, without the written permission of the publisher.

PAGE DAN PAGE MARY PAGE BRAD 22 ROWE 44 ALDRED 66 SUGARS Every effort is made to ensure the veracity and integrity of the companies, persons, products and services mentioned in this publication, and details given are believed accurate at the Explores fast-casual’s How the FCA is It’s time to support new normal supporting the industry small businesses time of going to press. However, no responsibility or liability whatsoever can be accepted for any consequence or repercussion of responding to any information or advice given or inferred. GLOBALFRANCHISEMAGAZINE.COM 7 InFacts and figures the from the world of franchising know

Number crunching QUOTE ME ON THAT The number “I’ve gone into 602,000 of people franchising in the UK who suffered from because work related stress, anxiety I want to or depression in 2018-19. make sure my family is Read how new business owners can financially beat burnout on pages 88-89. secure when my playing days are over.”

Liam Watts is planning for life after rugby league by becoming an easyProperty franchisee. Get the inside track on pages 40-43.

that it reflects the general economic situation the UK currently faces, too. While the repercussions of the coronavirus crisis are being felt across the nation, with some big high street brands announcing job losses over the last few weeks, at what-franchise. com we have never experienced such a surge in franchise interest before. Whether the furloughed public is using time off to investigate going it alone via business ownership or those who have been made redundant are looking to control their future by investing in their own franchise, it’s too early to say, but the appetite for embarking on a TRENDING ONLINE: SURGE IN new venture is really there - and we have received FRANCHISE ENQUIRIES thousands of enquiries over the last month. The what-franchise.com enquiry system is not only a If you are interested in running your own good barometer of evaluating the current demand for business, you can search through over 800 investing in franchise businesses, but it could be said exciting opportunities at what-franchise.com.

8 WHAT FRANCHISE | ISSUE 16.2 NEWS IN BRIEF

FOOD RETAILER applied to businesses that have struggled over the last three months. LAUNCHES FRANCHISE “It’s a combination of a food retail outlet Award winning Eat17 plans to open new stores and, in normal times, restaurants and places in London and is offering a proven model to customers can buy quality street food. business owners interested in turning some “That model could work well with those of their floor space over to retailing. businesses that have found things tough Founded in east London in 2006, the during lockdown. Most will already be set up company has successfully combined elements with a catering kitchen, meaning restaurant of a convenience store with eating out. quality food is going to be a possibility. Eat17 co-founder James Brundle says: Where it isn’t or they want to diversify, that’s “Our offering isn’t a one size fits all, it’s something we can help with. about us working closely with publicans, “The same with the retail side of the restaurant owners and retailers to give them business. We partner with Spar on our retail another stream of revenue as they adapt their outlets, so can give businesses the advice and businesses for social distancing. support they need to get the retail side off the “Our concept has been working well for ground. We can also offer a large selection of 14 years and it’s a model that can easily be foods we create ourselves from scratch.”

TaxAssist offers face-to-face course. “We’ll be using video calls, cash back telephone, emails, instant The tax and accountancy chat features, live and Papa John’s who’s usually on the road specialist is offering new recorded videos, as well as twice a week holding discovery franchisees £4,000 cash back software such as Sway, Teams delivers on meetings across the UK. for as long as it runs its initial and Zoom, to alternate our “Many have tried Papa John’s training course online. communication channels virtual discovery and love the product and these TaxAssist Accountants as we introduce different meetings remote sessions are the chance was forced to change the members of the team and to learn how the tried and tested way it delivers its training new topics. Papa John’s is launching a series franchise concept works. They programme because of the “We also want to make of virtual discovery meetings for are an opportunity for both social distancing measures the course as enjoyable as potential franchisees wanting parties to ask questions to see introduced following the possible, so we’ve designed to know more about the pizza if there could be a good fit for COVID-19 pandemic. it so our delegates will not franchise. the future. The company’s Samantha be sitting in front of their “These one-to-one sessions “I’m also planning virtual Skyring says: “We’ve had to computer for hours on end.” are the first step in getting to regional recruitment events, overhaul the training course, know the candidate and for them which will start to be held early as we want to make sure to get to know Papa John’s,” says in the summer.” Keep up to date with the latest we’re able to stay engaged news at what-franchise.com Phil Gaffer, franchise sales and Papa John’s has also revealed with each new franchisee business development manager it will soon be holding its first and establish a good rapport, Follow us on Twitter at Papa John’s UK (pictured), online guest visit event. as we would normally on our @whatfranchise

WHAT-FRANCHISE.COM 9 WHAT FRANCHISE 16_2 master_WHAT FRANCHISE 14/07/2020 14:20 Page 10 OPINION

The sector’s stronger together Hundreds of franchisees have joined the British Franchise Association recently, following the launch of a new grassroots initiative

WORDS BY PIP WILKINS

n the last few weeks the British Franchise “Our community represents not I Association has only franchisors, but professional launched an initiative to promote free franchisee membership advisers and suppliers that to all franchisees of our accredited franchisor members. The aim is to THE AUTHOR partner with the bfa” grow the franchising community and Pip Wilkins is CEO of for the first time in the association’s the British Franchise format franchisors and by it has been a long journey to reach history to truly represent all Association upholding the highest of ethical the point we’re at today. When stakeholders in the sector. standards in franchising. you have always been seen as a I’m proud to be able to find a way Our community represents not franchisor association, changing that allows franchisees to easily only franchisors, but professional perceptions and building trust engage and see some benefit from advisers and suppliers that partner with a new stakeholder group is being part of the association that with the bfa to help shape our challenging. represents our industry. standards. These relationships are As a sector, we’ve evolved year critical in ensuring franchisors can on year and I don’t know of another Representing access the right advice and structure sector that supports and collaborates excellence their business models ethically. like ours. The challenging times Since the bfa was established in We recognised though that the we have all experienced recently 1977, we’ve represented excellence majority of franchising happens have underlined that we’re stronger in business format franchising and at the grassroots level and it’s for together and by inviting our to date have ensured any legislative this reason we felt strongly this franchisee colleagues to be part of the threats to UK franchising have community of franchisees should be bfa, we will grow to be even stronger. been avoided. supported and represented. We’ve done this by developing New members a robust accreditation framework Long journey I’m excited to report that in the last that means franchisors displaying From taking the decision to be more three weeks more than 350 franchisees the bfa brand are proper business inclusive eight years ago, have joined the bfa and that number continues to grow day by day. Franchisees are already engaging with the bfa and their peers through their Facebook Hub group and weekly online Power Hours. This for me evidences that our decision to be truly inclusive and represent franchisees is one of the best decisions we have made. There’s so much for anyone considering franchising to be excited about. We have lots of tools to help you decide whether franchising is right for you and, if it is, how to choose the right franchisor. The starting point on your due diligence journey is thebfa.org. Rest assured that we are here to support you too.

WHAT-FRANCHISE.COM 11 OPINION

Finding a workable solution

A collaborative approach is needed to overcome the COVID-19 challenges faced by franchisors and franchisees

WORDS BY JAMES THOMAS

OVID-19 has applied pressure on many “It’s in everyone’s interests that franchised businesses C in recent months. businesses can open as usual in Trading has been interrupted and some have been unable to generate the future” any income at all. THE AUTHOR Although the lockdown is being conditions concerns franchise are tenants,” she adds. “Do they James Thomas is gradually eased, normal trading fees and are they still applicable. have to pay rent for premises commercial manager conditions may still be months The simple answer is that depends when they can’t trade? Naturally, at d&t, an award away, so we asked our affiliate on the force majeure clause in retail franchises are particularly winning chartered legal advisers what’s the legal individual contracts. affected. accountancy and “However, my advice to “From a legal perspective, the business advisory position on franchisee management specialist service fees. franchisees and franchisors is answer comes down to what Are franchisees still required to rather than go down the legal route individual contracts say. However, pay them? The official answer is immediately, spend some time if franchises can’t pay, landlords that it depends on the individual assessing the financial analysis need to be realistic. Negotiation wording of contracts. However, together. Aim to come up with and talking through options are franchisors and franchisees should solutions to ensure both parties more likely to achieve the best have one overriding aim: to work have a functioning franchise in outcome for all parties than together to ensure they have viable three months’ time and beyond. trying to enforce legal obligations businesses in the future. “This may well include using through force majeure clauses business planning and accountancy that were not written to anticipate Force majeure clause experts for the chaos this pandemic has John Pratt of franchise legal forecasting and brought. specialist Hamilton Pratt advice on the “Moving forwards, as franchised explains: “The main loan schemes businesses reopen it may be worth question given the and other considering changes to terms and altered trading financial conditions at some point. However, support in the short term we’re advising available. It’s that clients address their position in everyone’s relating to COVID-19 by email and interests that spend their energy focusing on businesses can current business activities to open as usual get through.” in the future and working together Duty of care is often the best way to No one anticipated the widespread overcome challenges even in these business challenges the pandemic difficult times.” has presented. However, franchisors have a duty of care Practicality must take to protect the long-term interests precedence of their franchisees. Roz Goldstein of Goldstein Legal Regardless of what their believes practicality must take contracts say, they should be precedence over the detailed looking at viable solutions to wording of contracts. help sustain and mitigate any “As well as questions about upcoming risk. force majeure clauses related to What we’re hearing from our legal franchise fees, we are also colleagues is that communication dealing with enquiries from is king to negotiating the best franchisees and franchisors who outcomes for all concerned.

12 WHAT FRANCHISE | ISSUE 15.516.2 WHAT FRANCHISE 16_2 master_WHAT FRANCHISE 16/07/2020 15:48 Page 13

“The best thing Pick Bluebird Care for your about Bluebird Care next adventure is that we get to There has never been a better time to start follow a model that a homecare franchise, providing safe and simply works!” compassionate care for those in need. Julie McLellan, At Bluebird Care, Franchise owners manage Bluebird Care and develop their businesses, recruiting a North Tyneside team of brand advocates who deliver a continuum of high quality, person-centred, non-medical care in the community.

Why choose Bluebird Care? • Largest Provider Of Private Home Care In The UK • Proven Business Model • Award Winning Training • Elite Franchise ‘Top 20 franchise for 2020’

Get in touch with Vicky Brown today to start your franchising journey. 07912 771149 | [email protected] www.bluebirdcarefranchise.co.uk

If we have learnt one thing from the pandemic, it is that flexible working is here to stay and that is fundamental to Get Ahead VA. Interested? I would recommend this franchise opportunity to To find out anyone who’s thinking of more call taking the plunge. Fiona Ibbetson, Regional Director 01483 332220 Get Ahead VA Leeds or visit www.franchise.getaheadva.com Run your own Get Ahead Virtual Agency with executive mentoring, integrated marketing campaigns, and full team support within your own dedicated region. We can help you go into business for yourself, not by yourself. INSIGHT

Delving deep into due diligence This two-brand franchisee provides an unrivalled insight into researching a franchise opportunity

WORDS BY ADRIAN STEEL

ver the years, brand will already be recognised franchisee doesn’t do a good job, franchising has helped in the local area and you can thereby risking the reputation of thousands of people ask them for advice in a way you the entire business, which has been O to become business wouldn’t ask a franchisor. built by them and their existing owners. But it takes time to find the As a franchisee, you need franchisees over many years. right franchise to invest in. Here are to change your perception of Making sure a person is 100 per my tips to help you in your search: competition. A fellow franchisee cent right for their brand and that THE AUTHOR close by is a good thing, unless they understand about following Adrian Steel owns Look at the you want to build a large, multi- the franchise model is crucial. If a Wilkins Chimney competition in your territory business, in which case they don’t think you’re a good fit for Sweep franchise and a make sure there’s enough room for their business, they won’t let you PVC Vendo franchise area Do your research. No matter how you to expand in due course. buy one of their franchises. good the franchise opportunity may That’s not to say starting up in How familiar is the franchisor look, if there’s no demand for your a new area won’t work. It may just or their staff with the job you’ll services because there’s too much take longer to establish yourself, be doing or the service you’ll be competition or no need for the as you won’t have the benefit of providing? It’s important that the service in your area, you’re doomed the brand being known in your team looking after you have first- from the outset. local area. hand knowledge of a franchisee’s My first franchise was a bird role. removal business. It took me a while Meet the franchisor This is particularly relevant if to realise the reason why all the and the franchisees you’re an early purchase franchisee. successful franchises were on the Try to have a one-to-one meeting Who will you ask advice from if coast - seagulls. There weren’t a lot with the franchisor early on. the management team have never of them in mid-Hampshire. Open days may give you a good actually swept a chimney or cleaned overview of the business, but you a vehicle themselves, for example? Establish where the need to have a good sit-down When you meet a franchisee, other franchisees are conversation with the franchisor be aware that they probably won’t to get a feel for them and the way be 100 per cent honest about the based franchise, no matter how much they How far away will you be from other they run their business. may want to be. Realistically, it isn’t franchisees in the network? Ideally, Do you like them as a person? in their best interest to bad mouth you’ll have one not too far away, so Do they appear ethical or are they their franchisor, so learn to read not only can they help by referring more interested in getting you to between the lines. If they appear work in the early days, but your sign on the dotted line? A good franchisor will encourage you to to be hinting at issues, listen. They do large amounts of due diligence, may be trying to do you a favour. put together a business plan, The franchisor will give you a list “Don’t buy a franchise research the franchise and talk to of some franchisees to call, usually existing franchisees. because they’re in a similar location when all you’re getting is Every time a franchisor takes to you or are running a business the on a new franchisee, they risk way they think you’ll want to run a letterhead" harming their brand if that new yours.

14 WHAT FRANCHISE | ISSUE 16.2 This is great and do call them, but to pay them their fee, so you’re you sales of £50,000 a year, but if also ask the franchisor for a full list probably going to receive good your overheads are £75,000 your of franchisees and pick and choose support in return. business isn’t going to be profitable. a few of your own. No franchise Personally, I’m wary of the fixed Don’t be suckered in by financial operation can ever claim to have fee franchise model. However, if you guarantees. On the flip side, don’t 100 per cent happy franchisees, find a fixed fee model you like, make buy a franchise when all you’re but calling a few should reveal any sure you know exactly why kind of getting is a letterhead. general trends or gripes. support you’re going to get for your In addition to these tips, make money, what it includes and, most sure you take legal advice from a Find out how importantly, what it doesn’t. specialist franchise solicitor before established the you sign a franchise agreement. brand is Beware financial They will be able to tell you if The first franchise I ever bought, I guarantees in the it’s ethical and fair. The British was the 32nd franchisee. Nothing advertising Franchise Association has a list of I said ever reached the right ears, A franchisor might ‘guarantee’ them on their website. the model was already firmly established and I was just a number to them. The second franchise I bought, I was the sixth franchisee. I built a great rapport with the franchisors, who truly listened to me. If it’s important to you that you have some meaningful interaction with the franchisor and that your views are heard and possibly acted upon, you may be better off investing in a newer, smaller franchise. Don’t be put off by high percentage management fees In many instances, the larger the percentage management fee paid to the franchisor each month, the better the support received by the franchisee. It’s in a franchisor’s best interest to help you earn the money

WHAT-FRANCHISE.COM 15 BEHIND THE BRAND: PARTNER CONTENT

AT A GLANCE JUST CUTS On a mission Established: 1989 in Australia. 2018 in UK Number of franchised outlets: 8 in UK Location of units: UK-wide to increase Investment range: £50,000-£200,000 Minimum required capital: £45,000 Contact: 07809 210 122 [email protected] market share justcuts.co.uk

the obvious economic challenges our brand is going from strength Just Cuts is going from strength to strength in the UK, to strength in the face of adversity. And we have so much more in store despite the obvious economic challenges for the remainder of the year.”

FAST PACED GROWTH nternational hair “In my native Australia, Just Cuts STRATEGY salon franchise Just is quite literally a household name,” Just Cuts kicked off 2020 with I Cuts first launched David explains. “We’re the largest a new, fast paced strategy for on UK shores in hairdressing brand in the southern nationwide growth, whereby January 2018, with the opening hemisphere and perform 100,000 key, sought after sites are of one company owned location Style Cuts every week. preselected and invested in by in Lakeside shopping centre. “We celebrated our 30th year in Just Cuts corporate. Two years on and eight salons franchising in July, having launched These locations meet certain later, David Mathie, UK general the first franchisee owned salon non-negotiable criteria devised by manager, and his team are on a in the suburb of Engadine, Sydney the franchise development team, mission to replicate the brand’s in July 1990. We’ve launched new which take into consideration prominent standing in Australia and salons in Australia, New Zealand the required footfall, client New Zealand. and the UK this year, so despite demographics, regional economic figures and demand to see a new salon excel. Once these locations have been established, Just Cuts invests in the site and brand it up with its unique Aussie style, usually within a matter of weeks. Once operational, these salons are available for new franchise owners to invest in. The pilot location to launch under the new scheme opened in Crossgates shopping centre in a bustling suburb of Leeds in January 2020 - almost two years to the day after the opening of the first salon in Essex. Less than six months later, Just Cuts Crossgates was acquired by one of Just Cuts’ existing franchise owners, completing the sequence the company had devised to rapidly increase its market share. By March the second corporate investment location opened, in the Liberty Shopping Centre in Romford. Three months later, the team leader Just Cuts had recruited to manage operations of the salon invested in the franchise, becoming the fourth UK franchise owner. “In line with the structure of our network in Australia and New

16 WHAT FRANCHISE | ISSUE 16.2 Behind the Brand - XxxxxxxxxxxJust Cuts WHAT-FRANCHISE.COM 17 WHAT-FRANCHISE.COM “With all eight of our UK UK “With all eight of our to be a record going is really “It And the best part? You don’t don’t You And the best part? owners to take the reins. the reins. to take owners we salons back up and running, to the future can look forward we’ve and the goals brand of our of this the remainder set for says. David year,” ongoing in terms of our year a business From global expansion. plans perspective, development the launch for underway well are nine.” of salon number TURNKEY INVESTMENT TURNKEY INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITIES salon investment next Cuts’ Just in the forward is set to move of Blackburn, industrial town These Lancashire. turnkey opportunities are investment those looking to make for perfect the UK’s financial gain from hair £6.1 billion proof recession industry. and beauty hairdressing need to have Cuts Just a to own experience don’t you As an owner, franchise. a team manage you cut - or style while planning of qualified stylists, franchise. your of the future for “When we finally opened the opened the finally we “When upfront very also were “We One month on, the significantly in building momentum in building momentum significantly in the north east, initialising campaigns that and PR marketing of a brand awareness raise would salon coming to the area hair new Under. Down from way all the what at 9am on salon doors to as being referred is now the people of Saturday’, ‘Super and Sunderland Middlesbrough this At disappoint. didn’t certainly three over waited point, people had a haircut. months for in terms of and communicative social distancing sharing the new established to we’d procedures health and clients’ our ensure minds at This put clients’ safety. them to try ease and encouraged open, were we day us on the first in busiest day in our resulting to date.” 2020 and Sunderland Middlesbrough bustling hubs of salons are are While they the community. a fully by operated currently of and team team leader trained is on the hunt for the brand stylists, franchise passionate and hungry And although the appeal of Just Just And although the appeal of financial just makes “It leading up weeks the “For “Every single one of our UK UK one of our single “Every taking into account when “Even “We have so have “We in more much the for store of remainder the year” Cuts’ ‘no appointment, just walk in’ in’ walk ‘no appointment, just Cuts’ on any well translate would service research market UK high street, established the north as the most expansion. for region significant our us to replicate sense for initial success in the south and services to a new our market “Just says. David demographic,” in busy well salons perform Cuts’ high and on key shopping centres locations because, thanks street no of our to the convenience clients can pop booking system, once or lunch hour in during their at school. the kids are invested we until the launch, The brand’s two most recent recent most two The brand’s and launches, in Sunderland months in were Middlesbrough, the making. Due to the obvious limitations, the and unavoidable team development UK franchise had a significant amount of time to locate and fit out the perfect seven salons number sites for and eight. RECENT LAUNCHES RECENT LAUNCHES THE MAKING MONTHS IN Zealand, where over half of our half of our over where Zealand, multiple have owners franchise owners UK franchise salons, our footsteps,” in their following are says. David own already owners franchise planning are multiple locations or expansion before on significant The demand is out. year the services driven value our for range, haircare and affordable real are Professional, JUSTICE clients. our for drivers closure three-month the enforced period due to the COVID-19 salons are pandemic, all of our So much so that there thriving. Just of the downloads record were allowed were salons when Cuts app 4.” July to open again on WHAT FRANCHISE 16_2 master_WHAT FRANCHISE 16/07/2020 11:39 Page 18 FRANCHISES UNDER £25K POWERBRANDS WHAT-FRANCHISE.COM 19 WHAT-FRANCHISE.COM

BRANDS POWER EFFECTIVE WAY TO BE YOUR OWN BOSS OWN YOUR BE TO WAY EFFECTIVE

PROVEN BUSINESS CONCEPTS THAT PROVIDE A COST A COST PROVIDE THAT BUSINESS CONCEPTS PROVEN

FRANCHISES UNDER £25,000 It’s true that many franchises franchises true that many It’s manager Lola, the franchise However, be careful not to start be careful However, TAKE YOUR BUSINESS YOUR BUSINESS TAKE SERIOUSLY it can be franchise, cost With a low business your tempting to think of low job requiring ‘pin money’ as a commitment. designed to be are in this category at first, especially run part-time, commitment expect but franchisors means you because success for them. success for A BUSINESS, STARTING BUYING A JOB NOT you Hands-on where franchises, - at least at yourself work do the a ‘buying the start - can look like do not see it but franchisors job’, ‘Seemed to be just buying this. like cent 38 per for is the reason a job’ being franchisees of prospective franchisors. by turned down service telephone answering for franchise Call which Agents, Avoiding the need to borrow the need to borrow Avoiding do not eat means debt repayments profits. into your as business undercapitalised, your running out of capital is the number bust. go that start-ups one reason want will this and know Franchisors capital. enough have you to see that Insufficient capital is the number turn down franchisors one reason - accounting franchisees prospective cent of turn downs. 61 per for or friends. friends. or pooled by family family pooled by payout or money money or payout savings, a redundancy a redundancy savings, find start-up capital from capital from find start-up You’re not alone if you have have you not alone if You’re cost franchise, With a low you’re more likely to be able to to be able to likely more you’re a limited amount of money a limited amount of money in the 2018 Figures to invest. Association British Franchise landscape franchise NatWest that the franchise showed report one financial the number was fee cent among 85 per consideration of those setting up a franchise, of investment. at all levels WORDS BY LINDA WHITNEY LINDA BY WORDS

ou don’t have to invest to invest have ou don’t to sums of money large business own your start with a franchise.

and allow you to build a business at your own pace own build a business at your to you and allow COST A A COST There are plenty of franchises of franchises plenty are There Y in all sectors that require an an that require in all sectors of less than £25,000. investment figures investment franchise Many are and there £15,000 around group £10,000. below a surprising number Many franchises have initial investment levels under £25,000 under £25,000 levels initial investment have franchises Many ISSUE 16.2

| FORTUNE NOT ALL FRANCHISES ALL NOT THE AUTHOR Linda Whitney writes for about franchising What the Daily Mail, and many Franchise other publications

FRANCHISES UNDER £25K POWERBRANDS FRANCHISE 20 WHAT POWERBRANDS FRANCHISES UNDER £25K POWERBRANDS FRANCHISES

“Avoiding the need to borrow WHERE TO FIND LOWER means debt repayments do not COST OPTIONS • Home-based franchises, such as customer eat into your profits” services or travel agencies. Nearly four out of 10 franchise systems can be run from home and 16 per cent of franchisees say they run their requires an investment of £3,750, “This business is largely business from a home office. says: “This franchise can be run recession proof, as most of our from home and you don’t need call clients are retired and foot care is • Mobile franchises, such as vehicle services, coffee delivery and garden services. British centre experience, so we’re seeing a an essential service for them.” Franchise Association figures show that seven lot of interest at present. per cent of franchisees run their franchise from “But many applicants don’t START SMALL - GROW BIG a van. realise that it’s not just answering Many low cost franchises expect you calls, as you would in a call centre to be committed to growth and will • Franchises that mean delivering services at job. They’re running a business help you expand, take on staff and hired local venues, such as children’s activities and we expect them to market their move into management. sessions in church halls. service too.” Cathryn Hayes, franchise director at mobile vehicle paint repairs CHOOSE YOUR franchise Revive!, says: “We talk to FRANCHISE CAREFULLY our franchisees about growth right from the outset and now all new The economy is a bit unpredictable franchisees start with two vans, at present, so look for a business instead of as a single operator, as this where demand is set to increase or speeds up growth.” remain steady. Revive!, where the initial personal Nigel Toplis, managing director investment is £10,000-£15,000, has of Techclean, the £19,500 franchise an accelerated growth programme that involves providing office for franchisees that focuses on technology cleaning services, expansion and profitability, plus is expecting growing customer changes in mindset and ambition. demand post-lockdown. Franchisees on the programme He says: “This is a huge and are invited to workshops and growing market. Our franchisees masterclasses that cover topics such can work from home, with low fixed as planning for growth, recruitment overheads, and the franchise can and retention, sales and marketing. be grown according to the owner’s “By changing from an owner £ level of effort.” operator to a manager, a Debra Rose, co-owner of the franchisee can build a substantial £14,995 mobile foot care franchise asset to sell when they want to Healthy Feet, says: “We’re expecting retire or move on,” Cathryn says. to see new franchisees who have “Our Luton franchisee sold his decided post-COVID-19 that they 10-van operation in 2019, having want to do something to help their built it up from a single van 10 local communities. years ago.”

WHAT-FRANCHISE.COM 21 FRANCHISES UNDER £25K POWERBRANDS FRANCHISES

Darlington Mnandi: Call Agents

“I paid for the franchise with part of my savings”

After 20 years in He launched in December 2019, initially customer services, part-time. latterly as a manager, “I gained some customers soon after Darlington Mnandi start-up, mainly by joining a face-to- decided to start his own face networking group,” he says. “I customer services business think it’s easier to win customers by with Call Agents, the telephone a referral from someone they already answering franchise. know. We’re now networking on Zoom. He explains: “I looked at many I hadn’t done networking before, but franchises, but Call Agents used my I think it’s the best way to market this skills and the investment did not mean business.” “Look for a breaking the bank. Working from home Darlington advises: “Some people may also means there are fewer overheads be tempted to not take low investment business where than taking business premises.” franchises as seriously as more costly Darlington runs his business from ones, but never forget that whatever demand is set home in east London: “I paid for the your investment you need to be fully franchise with part of my savings committed if you are to succeed. to increase or because I didn’t want to borrow. “Call Agents is not just about taking Borrowing adds to the hassle and cost calls - you’re running a business and remain steady” of getting started and means you have you have to market it.” to service the debt, which reduces your business earnings.”

Ken Allison: Revive!

“You have to be thoroughly committed to the business”

Ken Allison proves that you can start a business in a recession and still succeed. He launched his Revive! mobile vehicle paint repair franchise in 2009 in the depths of the last big recession as an owner operator working alone from a van. Now Ken has a team of van-based technicians on the road and mainly devotes his time to management. “I brought some useful skills with me from my previous logistics jobs, all of which were van-based, and my franchise investment came half from my savings and half from a bank loan,” he says. “It was scary at the time, but I felt fortune favours the brave - and I was right.” franchisees from the start and provides us with He ran his Revive! franchise for two years before taking management training. on his first employee: “Initially, the transition from “If this is something you really want to do, go ahead. being on my own in a van to being a businessman who But it’s no good doing it just for the money. You have manages both the business and other people was to be thoroughly committed to the business and quite challenging. keep pushing forward if you want it to grow. “It’s about changing how you think, but it helps “Revive! will do all they can to help you, but you that Revive! fosters a growth mindset in its have to believe you can do it too.”

22 WHAT FRANCHISE | ISSUE 16.2 POWERBRANDS FRANCHISES UNDER £25K POWERBRANDS FRANCHISES

Susan Davies: Techclean

“I wanted to grow a business I could run from home”

Office hygiene has shot straight to the Lisa Reddy: top of many companies’ list of priorities with a variety of people in different in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, environments, although coronavirus Healthy Feet which means business is thriving for has meant that during lockdown we Susan Davies. have had very little contact with staff. A former teacher and mother of four, “I call the women I work with my dream “I started work she set up Techclean South Wales after team and clients are always genuinely her youngest child went to university. delighted with the results. We are in my local area Susan says: “I was looking for a new cleaning very valuable and sensitive challenge and wanted to grow a equipment and the work needs to be very soon after business I could run from home, but done correctly, so we must have the still get out and about to interact right policies and procedures in place. qualifying” with others.” “Head office is very supportive and She started out hands-on, but business we work together to achieve the Lisa Reddy started a Healthy Feet has grown steadily and now she necessary level of professionalism. foot care franchise business in May employs a team of three. We go into an office and in just a few 2019 in order to change her life and The Techclean service has never been in hours make such a big difference to now enjoys changing lives for others greater demand, providing an effective the working environment.” in her community. cleaning service for office equipment Susan’s turnover has grown significantly Lisa, a former HR manager in a large that comes into regular contact with in the last two years: “We rely on our corporate, says: “I was tired of the human hands. excellent reputation and it takes time to stress, the workload and the inflexibility, “With Techclean, no two days are the build this up. As with most things, hard especially as I had two small children. I same,” Susan says. “It’s great working work brings rewards.” have no regrets about changing career to be a Healthy Feet franchisee, even though we could not work during the lockdown.” Healthy Feet franchisees deliver a local foot care service, mainly to private Biraj and Sital clients. The franchise training includes a diploma in foot health course, so all Nakarja and Raman franchisees are qualified foot health and Karnvir Bath: practitioners. The cost of the course is included in the cost of the franchise. Code Ninjas “I enjoyed the training course, which combines online study and practical clinical experience, and two weeks before the end of the course my “With no premises to find and fit out, appointment book was already full, we can get up and running faster” helped by Healthy Feet head office,” Lisa says. “I started work in my local area very soon after qualifying.” Long-term friends, business partners and husband and wife duos Biraj and Sital She adds: “I like the combination of Nakarja and Raman and Karnvir Bath decided to invest in the £12,000 Code working directly with the people I Ninjas Studio franchise after researching coding classes for their own children. visit, doing the admin from home and Biraj says: “As a team, we’d been looking for an additional enterprise we could marketing my services. operate together. Today coding and programming literacy is crucial for a child’s “People feel happy and comfortable development and our research showed high market demand and no real once you’ve treated their feet and competitors in our ideal territory of Slough. like the fact a qualified practitioner is “With our combined expertise in business operations, technology, HR, finance keeping an eye on their foot health. and franchising, we felt well placed to bring Code Ninjas to our area.” You also have the extra reward of giving Raman adds: “The Code Ninjas Studio model means we can operate out of something back to your community.” centrally located community centres such as libraries, schools and universities, keeping overheads low and profit margins high, and with no premises to find and fit out we can get up and running faster.”

WHAT-FRANCHISE.COM 23 BEHIND THE BRAND: PARTNER CONTENT FRANCHISES UNDER £25K POWERBRANDS – Dum Donuts FRANCHISES

AT A GLANCE DUM DUM Pop-up from DONUTS Established: 1997 Number of franchised outlets: 10 Location of units: Windsor, Brighton, Dum Dum Grand Central, Basingstoke, Bromley, Bluewater, Euston, Shoreditch, Jeddah Investment range: £7,500 upwards Minimum required capital: £7,500 (dependent on unit) Donuts Contact: [email protected] dumdums.co.uk Latest initiative allows investors to test local market with zero upfront franchise fee and no monthly royalties over a shorter period than a full franchise agreement and with no franchise fee or royalties to pay. he world has changed unique baking process and patisserie It’s temporary in nature, so that dramatically in 2020 techniques, rather than the method franchisees can take advantage of and franchising of simply floating dough in hot oil. short-term property opportunities T and test their local market. needs to change with The result is a lighter and less sickly it. Flexibility is essential to take product that meets the growing Paul Hurley, founder of advantage of short to medium-term demands of consumers in 2020. Dum Dum Donuts, says: “We opportunities - which is why Dum Franchisees benefit from this believe that as a result of the Dum Donuts is excited to announce logistically simple concept: no challenges thus far in 2020 there the first ‘pop-up’ franchise offer. cooking on site as products are will be some great property Artisan doughnut chef Paul delivered fresh each day to their opportunities, as well as leisure and event spaces that are looking Hurley formulated the recipe for store, simply displaying and providing Dum Dum donuts in 2013. They’re to maximise revenue. a first-class customer experience. hand-made with natural ingredients “However, starting a business In addition, Dum Dum Donuts is and beautifully baked. As a result at this time can be daunting, so training high end coffee roasters, of their irresistible deliciousness, de-risking opportunities with ready to support franchisees with the brand’s effective use of social flexibility and minimising initial franchise roll outs across the UK. media and the modern twist it’s outlay is essential.” applied to the humble doughnut, it has a growing legion of loyal of fans WHAT’S A POP-UP HOW THE CONCEPT in the UK. FRANCHISE? WORKS The company bakes rather than It’s a version of the Dum Dum The Dum Dum Donuts pop-up deep fries all their donuts using their Donuts franchise business, but franchise gives investors the chance to secure a franchise territory and operate a store for up to six months, perhaps in a vacant unit, kiosk, event space, indoor or outdoor cart space, travel hub or even a food hall/market. Full support is provided to all pop-up franchisees, who are also given access to Dum Dum Donuts’ comprehensive training manuals. After the agreed term for the pop-up comes to an end, you can walk away with no further obligations. Alternatively, if you feel you’ve established the store and proven the demand post- lockdown, you have the option to upgrade to a full five-year franchise on preferential terms. Dum Dum Donuts is looking for driven franchisees who are able to secure high footfall locations for its pop-up initiative. Therefore, the qualifying criteria is strict, with an initial limited number of pop-up franchises available.

24 WHAT FRANCHISE | ISSUE 16.2 WHAT FRANCHISE 16_2 master_WHAT FRANCHISE 16/07/2020 15:49 Page 25 BEHIND THE BRAND: PARTNER CONTENT FRANCHISES UNDER £25K POWERBRANDS - ChrysalisFRANCHISES Partners

AT A GLANCE CHRYSALIS PARTNERS

Established: Achieving a 2018 Number of franchised outlets: 10 Location of units: UK Investment range: £34,950 Minimum required capital: £20,000 better balance Contact: [email protected] chrysaliscoach.co.uk Graham Garman is using Chrysalis Partners’ world class training and support to become a “I wanted to find successful business coach something that

ollowing a successful after being made redundant I wanted gave me more career in the corporate to find something that gave me more flexibility” F world and being made flexibility and the ability to balance redundant in 2019, my lifestyle around my work. Graham Garman decided to look “Becoming part of Chrysalis first few years, the requirement for into franchising to help business Partners has allowed me to be both a a coach to help steer businesses owners drive more success within successful business coach, as well as to success is greater than their organisation. being able to enjoy time to myself.” ever, particularly during the With over 25 years of coaching unprecedented recent challenges experience in sales and marketing, FAST GROWING faced by the global economy. business growth and profitability, Chrysalis Partners is the fastest “I was extremely worried about Graham is passionate about helping growing coaching and consultancy what lockdown might mean for businesses achieve their goals. franchise in the UK, offering business coaching,” Graham says. He explains: “Throughout my business coaching and consultancy ‘However, Chrysalis have been so career I’ve helped businesses to to the small and medium-sized supportive to all the coaches. overachieve their targets. However, enterprise market. “They reduced our monthly Starting your own business can fees and scheduled regular be daunting, therefore Chrysalis Zoom calls, which made me Partners offers an inclusive marketing feel valued, and allowed all the campaign (including 15 appointments coaches to share tips with each with prospects) to get franchisees other to help us still gain clients started, as well as an Enhanced throughout lockdown. Support Programme, enabling “We have all had to learn from franchisees to work alongside a highly this new way of working, but from experienced Coach’s Coach, with an day one Chrysalis was committed intensive programme of activities over to making sure everyone wouldn’t three months to help them win their be impacted negatively. first clients. “I have been really lucky and Chrysalis’ model comes with a secured three recent deals, but money-back guarantee on your without the extra support from licence fee, such is the company’s Chrysalis this wouldn’t have confidence in the systems it offers. been possible.” “They’re totally committed to ensuring success for the partners COMMUNITY SPIRIT and the value from the training New franchisees join a growing is second to none,” Graham says. community of business “With additional group meetings, professionals, who share their Chrysalis encourages you to work experiences and thoughts on together and share successes how they are using the Chrysalis to broaden your knowledge and Partners models and strategies to leverage one another’s strengths.” best effect with their clients. “The incredible support and BIG DEMAND training provided are world class,” With more than five million small Graham says. “I’m privileged to be to medium-sized businesses in the a part of the Chrysalis Partners UK, demand for Chrysalis Partners’ franchise and I would recommend services is huge. Furthermore, with anyone thinking of a career in most new businesses failing in the consulting to use Chrysalis.”

26 WHAT FRANCHISE | ISSUE 16.2 BEHIND THE BRAND: PARTNER CONTENT FRANCHISES UNDER £25K POWERBRANDS - FRANCHISES What’s On In

AT A GLANCE WHAT’S ON IN

Minimum required capital: franchise costs £798. Interest free Growth market loan available Contact: Dani Smith [email protected] 07860 833822 What’s On In is the website for people wishing to find woifranchise.com out what’s on in their town, city and holiday location

user friendly for the advertisers and account, which means excellent that we could offer any business a cash flow. free sales web page. 82 per cent of UK businesses have no website, so OPTIONAL 50-50 SYSTEM we needed to address this with a What’s On In has an optional free web page for every advertiser.” 50-50 system, whereby you have a commission only sales person THREE FRANCHISE building your postcode area for PACKAGES you, offering complete freedom, What’s On In offers three types and is perfect for someone with of franchise: an existing business or job who wants a ‘hands off franchise’. • Single franchise postcode. This option obviously requires • Master franchise, UK or globally. less commitment from the • Corporate franchise, Europe franchisee. and globally. Potential monthly incomes are £5,000-£20,000, depending on commitment. Franchisees receive FLEXIBLE OPPORTUNITY a fully exclusive postcode area. A typical What’s On In website not The exclusive online franchise f the What’s On In only offers a franchisee an excellent members’ area provides in-depth franchise, managing income from advertisers, but also and comprehensive franchisee director Dani Smith allows them to place affiliates on O support and access to tips, says: “It was simple, their website, which pay franchisees advice and training tools. we know the UK online advertising up to 70 per cent commission. There market is worth £189 million and we are three income streams: saw the market was wide open. LOW COST ENTRY “We also wanted to make our • Income for main businesses. Dani believes What’s On In offers franchise available to anyone and • Income from tradesmen. the perfect low cost entry into that’s why we priced it at £798. The • Income from affiliates. the profitable franchise arena. return on investment is amazing. New franchise opportunities We also offer an interest free A franchisee needs no technical are continually added throughout finance package and payment over knowledge, as all loading of adverts the UK. With its self service three-six months.” is carried out by the What’s On In platform, high visibility, full support team. Bookings are made tracking and low advertising USER FRIENDLY online via the website and payment cost, the What’s On In franchise She goes on to explain: “I needed is made within three minutes offers the ultimate in online to make sure our web platform was direct to the franchisee’s PayPal advertising.

WHAT-FRANCHISE.COM 27 BEHIND THE BRAND: PARTNER CONTENT FRANCHISES UNDER £25K POWERBRANDS – Molly Maid UK FRANCHISES

AT A GLANCE MOLLY MAID UK

Established: 1984 Number of franchised outlets: 68 Leading Location of units: across the UK, from Scotland to the south coast Investment range: £18,975 (plus VAT) and £7,000 working capital (£10,000 of the £18,975 is allocated to marketing for the the way first 12-18 months) Minimum required capital: at least 30 per cent of the total investment (£7,975). The remainder can be funded through a business loan Aaron Watson, director of business development, Contact: Aaron Watson, director of business development. 01628 583765. explains the current boom in demand for home [email protected] cleaning and why MOLLY MAID is at the forefront mollymaid.co.uk/franchise of this £3 billion industry “We help you be he UK’s £3 billion house owners why they chose MOLLY MAID cleaning sector is set and they will say three things: in business for T for significant changes, • The MOLLY MAID brand opens with an increase in the door to thousands of potential yourself, but not demand from customers who are customers. turning to professional services like • The MOLLY MAID system works. by yourself” MOLLY MAID to keep their homes • They never feel like they are doing clean and sanitised. it alone. business adviser, plus the entire Recognised as the most well- That pretty much sums up support office team and franchise known name in the industry MOLLY MAID. We pride ourselves on network, which are all there to (determined by a YouGov survey) partnering with ambitious individuals help you succeed. and with a website consistently who want to start their own business. ranked the highest in overall We help you be in business for CHANGING LANDSCAPE awareness, franchise owners yourself, but not by yourself. Understanding our sector and continue to enjoy record numbers Joining MOLLY MAID means you customer needs means having of enquiries from customers receive over 40 years of experience the ability to understand change, about our home cleaning services. in the home cleaning industry, determine what the future will look with a proven system that works. like and have the ability to adapt WHY MOLLY MAID? But more importantly, you’ll quickly. Ask any of our existing franchise receive support from a dedicated This is what we achieved during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, by evolving how our business could operate safely to allow us to continue to lead the way and protect our existing franchise owners and their businesses. Our quick development of the HomeSafe cleaning system gave franchise owners the tools and knowledge needed to allow them to resume service quicker than many thought possible, further separating us from the competition.

TAKE CHARGE OF YOUR FUTURE Not many businesses can say they are already achieving over 70 per cent of sales within the first two months of being back in business after exiting lockdown, but our new HomeSafe systems has given our customers the reassurance to allow us to achieve this and keep us ahead of the curve.

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Ableworld is the UK’s largest mobility retailer in a sector valued at around £1.5bn each year. Highly trained Ableworld franchise owners are meeting this demand all over the country – you could join them in 2020! An Ableworld franchise gives you two complimentary income streams: • The retail outlet - a mobility superstore which sells a comprehensive range of quality products to help the elderly and disabled in their homes and outdoors • The stairlift business which, using only high-quality branded equipment provides homeowners with a variety of life-changing options

With approximately 750,000 people reaching retirement age each Ableworld - year there is a stable and increasing demand for Ableworld’s at the Heart of products and services. the Community, helping others Ableworld Franchisees receive: lead more active ✓ ✓ and comfortable A generous exclusive territory Excellent earnings potential lives ✓ A first class training programme ✓ A chance to make a difference in your community ✓ Up to 70% finance is available from the banks* For more information please email: [email protected] or telephone: 01270 613599 for a free information pack or visit our website: www.ableworldfranchise.co.uk

Start a lucrative and rewarding business offering business coaching and consulting services to the many millions of prospective clients across the UK and beyond. Chrysalis Partners has many benefits, including: ■ Unlimited support from head office. ■ Excellent cash flow from an early stage – clients ■ Attendance at head office events. pay in advance. ■ Ongoing training to include new materials developed. ■ Fully inclusive 5 day residential training course. ■ Initial supply of stationary and supplies. ■ 3 month enhanced support program. ■ Your own Chrysalis Partners website and lead ■ Inclusive appointments from head office to help generation system. you win your first clients with more ■ Personalised biography on the main Chrysalis appointments available. Partners website. ■ Full access to the Chrysalis Partners coaching ■ Partner advancement programme. and consulting system. ■ Use of Chrysalis Partners branding for your practice. ■ Chrysalis Partners operating license. ■ Money back guarantee on your license fee. Low start up costs Not only is the fee payable very reasonable but you have very little that you need to buy to get started. If you are mobile and have a telephone and a laptop you are ready to go – everything else you need is provided within the franchise system. 01403 888339 www.chrysaliscoach.co.uk Email: [email protected] BEHIND THE BRAND: PARTNER CONTENT FRANCHISES UNDER £25K POWERBRANDS - GetFRANCHISES Ahead VA

AT A GLANCE GET AHEAD VA Not alone Established: 2010. Franchising since 2018 Number of franchised outlets: 7 Location of units: UK Investment range: £8,000 (plus VAT) despite Contact: 01483 332220 getaheadva.com/franchise-opportunity

lockdown for being part of a franchise business during lockdown. “It’s been a lifesaver to have regular catch-ups with the These Get Ahead VA franchisees weren’t alone despite national team and the other franchisees. Just that comfort lockdown, thanks to the support of franchise owner to know that your ‘region’ isn’t Rebecca Newenham and the wider Get Ahead VA team going through it alone has made a big difference.” Jo Munroe, franchise owner, South Yorkshire, says: “I decided ockdown wreaked She listened and worked with to join Get Ahead in January this havoc on many them to create a personalised plan, year and was so excited about my franchisees and their understanding their individual L new adventure and being my own businesses. Some were situations and family commitments. boss. Then lockdown hit. forced to close completely. Others Rebecca introduced weekly team “I have seen so many of my tried to continue while juggling video calls for the franchisees and self-employed friends suffer home-schooling and other family wider Get Ahead VA team of over during this time and am so commitments. 40 virtual assistants. These regular grateful I had the support of the Being isolated at home could meetings were a chance for the Get Ahead family. have been a lonely time. But one of team to come together and share “We have stayed in close the benefits of buying a franchise is support for the week ahead. contact on groups and on video that you are never truly alone. The As lockdown progressed, Rebecca calls. I know there is always franchise owner and, in some cases, kept in regular touch with each someone at the end of the phone the wider business team are there of the franchisees, including if I need it. I think I would have to support you. celebrating team birthdays to keep struggled with the situation, had energy levels high. I not had that support.” PLAN OF ACTION Fiona Ibbetson, franchise Once Boris Johnson issued the WHAT THE FRANCHISE owner, Leeds, says: “Everyone ‘Stay at Home’ message, Get Ahead OWNERS SAY at Get Ahead VA is always very VA owner Rebecca Newenham Kristy Roff and Suzanne supportive, so it was no surprise immediately got in touch with all Cox, joint franchise owners, that when we went into lockdown her franchisees to see how they Berkshire & North Hampshire, we all were there for each other. were feeling. say: “We’ve been so grateful “From Rebecca putting in weekly catch-up calls, as well as having calls with the other franchisees to share ideas and experiences, we have all found ways to support our clients and networks during this time.” Marie Peters, franchise owner, West Surrey, says: “Having Rebecca and the other franchisees there as a support has been vital. “From casual chats and supportive WhatsApp messages to bouncing around ideas about how we can best support our clients. Rebecca even helped me deliver my first virtual expo. “Everyone bringing their own perspective to the group has meant we have been able to stay positive and help each other.”

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Dum Dums Pop Up Franchise Post Lockdown support for Entrepreneurs British Baked Donut Franchisor Launches Pop Up Franchise The First Pop Up Franchise with NO Territory Fee NO Royalties and Full Support ● Take advantage of landlords looking to fill empty retail space ● Secure cart space, empty units, space in existing store, market, food halls ● Low cost start up as Pop Up format store/cart configuration ● Simple model no cooking on site ● Grow exciting new delivery model in your area ● Minimum risk walk away after 6 months no further commitment ● Option to upgrade to full 5 year term franchise model and create a business with value. ● Take advantage of government new start up business loans Limited number of Pop Up licences available CONTACT US NOW If you have the drive, can secure a pop up location or have retail space not being fully utilised get in touch. www.dumdums.co.uk @dumdumdoughnuts BEHIND THE BRAND: PARTNER CONTENT Behind the Brand - Bluebird Care

AT A GLANCE BLUEBIRD CARE

Established: Supporting 2004 Number of franchised outlets: 200 Location of outlets: nationwide Investment range: £100,000-£115,000 those who Minimum capital required: £30,000 Contact: Victoria Brown. vickybrown@ bluebirdcare.co.uk. 07912 771149 support us bluebirdcarefranchise.co.uk “The health and social care sector is very much in Bluebird Care’s numerous awards emphasize the spotlight right now amid COVID-19, so we hope the site will the company’s commitment to supporting not only provide a clear pathway into a career at Bluebird Care, but its franchise owners also act as a key resource that provides valuable information about the significant benefits of luebird Care has The new site acts as a strong working in the care sector.” recently enjoyed resource for those looking to find multiple award wins, out more about the care sector. B MORE ACCOLADES as well as launching a It also details what a career in new careers website to help people care can entail. The helpful case Further award wins for Bluebird learn more about working in the studies and FAQs pages give Care include accolades from care sector. valuable insight into the industry Home Care Awards 2020 and The company’s main website, and the ethos of Bluebird Care. the UK Over 50s Housing Awards, among others. The most bluebirdcare.co.uk, recently won As unemployment is set to recent awards collected by the the coveted Kentico Website rise even more significantly over company are: of the Year award 2019 in the the coming months, Bluebird Home Care category. Following Care hopes its new website will • Team Support Expertise - on from this success, Bluebird encourage people to pursue a Home Care Awards 2020. Care has launched a new rewarding career in home care. website, bluebirdcarecareers.co.uk, The company’s careers Bluebird Care’s Franchise which makes starting a career with website clearly highlights the Support Centre won the award Bluebird Care clear and easy. opportunities for training for Team Support Expertise and development and the and was highly commended for specialisms a care assistant Innovative Technology Expertise at Bluebird Care is able to at the Home Care Awards 2020. develop, while also sharing The company prides itself roles that are administrative on staff training to include and office based. CPD accredited courses, as well as customer care, service, DELIVERING finance and first aid, and these FOR MULTIPLE values were recognised by the STAKEHOLDERS judging panel. Hannah Banfield, Bluebird Care’s Marketing and Communications • Most Outstanding Home Director, says: “We’re delighted to Care Provider 2019 - Over 50s have won the award for Kentico Housing Awards. Website of the Year 2019 for our bluebirdcare.co.uk website. These awards recognise “The site has to deliver for those who enhance customer multiple stakeholders, including experience and enjoyment and prospective customers and Bluebird Care was thrilled to potential recruits, as well as receive the top award. satisfying the needs of a network of 200 franchise owners. • Top 20 position in the Elite “With our new careers website, Franchise 100 league table. we hope to emulate the success of bluebirdcare.co.uk, utilising The company was awarded the adaptability of the site for number 16 spot by a panel of recruitment purposes. expert judges.

WHAT-FRANCHISE.COM 33 BEHIND THE BRAND: PARTNER CONTENT

AT A GLANCE SHUTTERCRAFT

A market I Established: 2012 Number of franchised outlets: 25 Location of units: knew with a nationwide Investment range: £25,000-£50,000 Minimum required capital: £25,000 model I could shuttercraft-franchise.co.uk

support is extremely effective, so I knew I was onto a winner. trust “I had previously built a very successful business selling shutters, so I was very confident I could do this again. With the added benefit Martin Jones explains why he decided to join the of the Shuttercraft business model and support, I knew I could exceed Shuttercraft franchise, despite having the ability to set my previous income and grow a sustainable business. up an independent interior shutter business “I love the fact that Shuttercraft are constantly looking at ways to fter many years in the “I’d always been front of house in improve the product and expand shutter industry, a change my previous business and I wanted the range. Since I joined, we have in circumstances meant to make sure I could continue to launched a range of additional A features and we are now working that Martin Jones needed to do this while maximising the rethink his career strategy. business opportunities. on the introduction of patented He knew his preference was to have his “From the minute I spoke to products for automation via the own business and, apart from a fleeting Shuttercraft, it was obvious their likes of Siri and Alexa and moment when he considered being a franchise was the perfect solution developing an app that will enable salesperson for a well-known blinds and, once I’d decided, there was my customers to see what shutters company, he decided the options were little to stop me. I joined in March will look like in situ. quite clear - set up a shutter company 2018 and I can honestly say it “All of this gives me himself or find a business model that gave was the best business decision faith in my ability to him the structure he needed. I’ve ever made.” grow my Shuttercraft business. I know that “By following the QUALITY SELLS with the support ITSELF of a great head Shuttercraft model, I have Martin is convinced that the office team and the interior shutter industry is network of other grown to a level I could still in its infancy and there is franchise partners a lot of scope to grow his I can achieve never have imagined” business. my goals.” “Shutters are, His objective was simple. He wanted a without doubt, the business that enabled him to manage his biggest growth business rather than work in it and allow opportunity in the him to do the things he loved - meeting window covering prospects and customers and delivering a marketplace quality service he could be proud of. today,” he says. Martin knew of Shuttercraft and had “Properly done, formerly been a direct competitor, so he they lend class and was aware of their great reputation and sophistication to the quality of products they used. He any property and decided to get in touch. I was so impressed Martin explains: “I knew Shuttercraft with the quality of the had improved their model and that it was Shuttercraft shutters. much more of a management franchise They are finished to and that really appealed to me - my skills an extremely high are in running a business and dealing standard and the with customers. supply chain and

34 WHAT FRANCHISE | ISSUE 16.2 Behind the Brand - Shuttercraft

WHAT MAKES HIM SUCCESSFUL? A lot of Martin’s success can in large part be attributed to his positive attitude to running his business and treating it as something to manage and grow, as opposed to being a hands-on shutter fitter. He’s a natural networker, who works well in a franchise set up, where ideas and successful strategies are shared, and has used his prior experience in shutters to his advantage - he was able to find two skilled fitters almost immediately. This helped him grow the business quickly and after setting up and making a success of the Warwick territory, he then purchased the Worcester region from Shuttercraft. Martin believes the robust and innovative Shuttercraft business model has given him the foundations he needed for his focussed and persistent approach and to build his success. “Buying the second territory of Worcester really was the game changer for me,” Martin says. “It has enabled me to take my earnings and my business to a whole new level. I run a tight ship and am very organised in my approach to managing my leads and my resources and this has helped me enormously as the business has grown. “The fact that the Shuttercraft Head Office team run my Google AdWords campaigns has taken a lot of pressure off me in generating leads. Currently, two thirds of my Mail, i newspaper and Metro and and that we would leave lockdown in leads come from this source and which they subsequently awarded great shape. Shuttercraft manage this on my to Martin. “At a time when a lot of people were behalf so I can focus on doing what In the true spirit of being part of a doing home improvements and looking I love best - meeting people and network, Martin shared his success for new ways to frame their windows, providing quality products.” with his fellow franchise partners this was a great example of resilience and in total five franchisees have and innovation, which is an integral part DEALING WITH benefitted from this advertising to of the Shuttercraft model. CHANGING boost their business. “If I had not been part of the ENVIRONMENTS “The Shuttercraft Head Office franchise, I don’t imagine I would have Recent events have not stopped team and network of Partners really achieved anything like the number of Martin from growing his customer demonstrated the perfect approach sales I have during this time. base and income. during these difficult times,” he says. “I have combined running my In fact, despite the Pandemic, “Initially we waited for the official business with home-schooling my he had a record month in May information we needed to make the children and the fact I have been and doubled this in June with one right business decisions and then we so successful and managed to spectacular day when he hit his put an innovative yet careful action keep them educated has only been career high of over £15,000 in plan in place. possible because of the support of the orders. He attributes this to the “Within three weeks we combined Shuttercraft network and my own team. combined efforts of the Shuttercraft the strength of the network with “I highly recommend that anybody Head Office team and the network the training and communication who is looking for a business that they in finding appropriate and safe skills at Head Office to introduce can grow and manage thinks seriously solutions to maintain the business. new ways of working: introducing about the Shuttercraft Franchise. I His success has even been virtual consultations and working had experience of the industry and recognised by the Federation of with consumers on surveying to running a business but, by following the Small Businesses, who had obtained ensure life and business continued Shuttercraft model, I have grown to a free advertising space with the Daily as normally and safely as possible level I could never have imagined.”

WHAT-FRANCHISE.COM 35 WHAT FRANCHISE 16_2 master_WHAT FRANCHISE 16/07/2020 11:42 Page 36 WHAT FRANCHISE 16_2 master_WHAT FRANCHISE 15/07/2020 10:57 Page 37 BEHIND THE BRAND: PARTNER CONTENT

AT A GLANCE VISITING ANGELS

Established: Time to thrive 2017 Number of franchised units: 9 Location of units: UK Investment range: £90,000-£110,000 The home care services provided by Visiting Angels Minimum required capital: have never been more essential £30,000-£50,000 Contact: Dan Archer. 07584 178458 visitingangelsfranchise.co.uk here are few franchise per year and supports 100 families, employing over 100 staff.” opportunities that have service and society at large has The solid foundations of the grown substantially looked to social care companies like T pilot business have also led to during lockdown. ours for additional support. the expansion of a network Care franchising does offer a “Our operational business has of franchisees. significant opportunity for the never been busier and our franchise “We have nine offices across the right franchisee. Since the start of network has doubled in the last six the COVID-19 pandemic, the focus UK and we had a socially distanced months. As lockdown eases, we’re on the efforts of those in the care training course in May 2020, with seeing yet more demand for our sector has never been clearer. eight new franchisees attending. service and the terrible situation Established in the US in 1998, I’m delighted that our model is one with COVID-19 in residential care Visiting Angels is a global care giant of the franchise success stories of homes means more families than with community-based values. the past 12 months.” ever are choosing care at home as Today, the franchise is one of the a safer alternative.” largest care franchises in the world ADDITIONAL SUPPORT and proudly supports 600-plus Many business opportunities claim TREATING CARERS franchisees in five countries. The to be recession proof. The reality BETTER business was launched in the of the past six months has been Dan feels that treating carers better UK in 2017 and has experienced that some businesses making that has been at the heart of Visiting phenomenal growth. claim have been forced to close Angels’ success: “Our business their doors. Home care franchising, was built on valuing carers more FIRST-HAND KNOWLEDGE however, has never been more than other care companies. What UK managing director Dan Archer essential and thanks to initiatives has happened with the COVID-19 explains: “Before launching the such as the clap for carers outbreak is that society has also franchise, I wanted to launch and movement, the wider population is started to realise that carers need run a pilot business in the UK. I felt now recognising this. to be valued better.” it was important that I was able For many businesses, the struggle Visiting Angels calls this to support our franchisees from a has been to survive, but Dan says approach being carer centric. The position of first-hand knowledge. for his business it has been a time focus is clear from the mission My business in Sheffield is now to thrive: “We have faced a huge statement of the UK business to turning over more than £1.7 million challenge as a nation and the health ‘Become the UK Care Sector’s Employer of Choice by 2022.’ “I want our caregivers to want to work in care and choose to work for a Visiting Angels office,” Dan says. Many care workers are underpaid and poorly rewarded, but the approach taken by Visiting Angels is different. Dan says: “We want to ensure our caregivers are among the best paid in the care sector. We pay more, we incentivise training and development, we reward loyalty and we offer excellent benefits.” By focusing on its caregivers, Visiting Angels has found it’s able to ensure the company has a ready supply of them. “We have found that the culture of caregiver support we have built in our offices has protected us from high staff turnover, meaning that the clients who we support

38 WHAT FRANCHISE | ISSUE 16.2 Behind the Brand - VisitingXxxxxxxxxxx Angels WHAT-FRANCHISE.COM 39 WHAT-FRANCHISE.COM

The franchise fee is £24,995 is £24,995 fee The franchise substantial, premises- A over many years and come from and come from years many over of hundreds the experience of franchisees. in this interested and franchisees will need £25,000- opportunity to in liquid capital in order £30,000 the total bank funding for secure including working investment, capital of up to £100,000. franchise, based management a six- for the potential exists one and year in turnover figure million pound-plus a projected three. year the end of by turnover

“Shared best practice and and best practice “Shared the provides Franchising team are The management group buying power for things like things like for power buying group equipment protective personal benefits of being been huge have biggest world’s part of one of the providers.” care go it to benefit of not having receive alone. UK franchisees and training comprehensive both the UK and support from team. US management but many knowledgeable, hugely in initiatives of the best practice been proven the business have

“We’ve led from the front in our in our the front led from “We’ve “Research conducted by Hanbury Hanbury conducted by “Research has been at “Residential care backlash against residential “A “Our franchise “Our has network in thedoubled months” six last local markets, with world with world class local markets, to keep carers our for training clients are and ensure them safe Dan says. protected,” At times of crisis, the global times of crisis, the global At business has Angels Visiting pulled together. LEADING FROM LEADING FROM THE FRONT Strategy, with support from the the with support from Strategy, during Age, Independent charity that around showed 2020 April-May of people polled said they a third to put want to less likely now were home. in a care relative their of the COVID-19 the epicentre pilot business in In our outbreak. calls from receiving we’re Sheffield, deciding that are who relatives loved their keep rather would they the risks ones at home to avoid homes. within care demand driving already was care is in the home. If COVID-19 care for that people the feeling increasing at home, the demand for safer are service is set to Angels Visiting the rising.” keep DRIVING DEMAND is also that society Dan feels on the type of view changing its provided. care get the same caregiver each week,” week,” each the same caregiver get are caregivers “Happy Dan says. that clients best placed to ensure delighted.” are INTERVIEW PUTTING THE PROP INTO PROPERTY

Super League rugby player Liam Watts is already planning for life after retirement by kicking off a new career as an easyProperty franchisee

WORDS BY TONY JAMES

t’s the question every professional Castleford. I’ve gone into franchising because I want sportsperson has to answer: how will you to make sure my family is financially secure when my I cope when retirement inevitably arrives playing days are over. and you’re still fighting fit, ambitious and “Going into business is a five-year plan. I’m 29 now, faced with the prospect that two thirds of your life but if I get to 33 or 34 and my body’s not doing things could still lie ahead? I want it to do I’d rather not have to play on just to get It doesn’t bother Liam Watts. At only 29 and with paid. Already the family is getting involved - my wife THE AUTHOR hopefully years of Super League rugby still to come, Beth will be helping out in the business and running An award winning the Castleford Tigers prop forward has already sorted the social media accounts.” journalist and author, Tony James his life after retirement by kicking off a new career as specialises in business a franchisee. A LIKEABLE AND PERSONABLE GUY and sport Although contracted to Rugby league high flyers Liam was the first player to work with Rugby league Castleford until 2023, Liam has launched his own Cares, an independent charity that helps players estate agency, W8tts Properties, in his West Yorkshire find new careers once their sporting lives are over. hometown as an umbrella for his online easyProperty He got involved with easyProperty, originally part of franchise for the Castleford, Pontefract, Knottingley the easy family of brands created by easyJet founder and Featherstone areas. Stelios Haji-Ioannou, after meeting Kelvin Brook, easyProperty’s business development manager. DETERMINED TO BE THE BEST “I pitched the idea to him,” remembers Kelvin, who easyProperty is a hybrid estate agency and determined admits to being “a massive Tigers fan.” “For me to to be the biggest and best of a new breed that operates meet him and have a beer after a game would for most online, while also providing local support. It claims to people be like meeting David Beckham. offer the perfect solution for house buyers and sellers “He’s a really likeable and personable guy. He who want the best of both online and high street said he had thought about how he was going to look worlds, hence the slogan: ‘Sell your property from your after himself and his family after giving up the game sofa’. because most rugby players don’t make enough to The friendly six foot four, 17-stone rugby star is an retire on. iconic figure in Castleford and cheerfully admits that “Right from our initial discussions, we knew that being a local hero has done his fledgling business we could teach him to be a good estate agent. We were no harm at all - W8tts Properties’ Facebook page extremely excited about how the orange Castleford attracted 1,300 followers in just a few weeks and tiger could work with the orange easyProperty brand. despite coronavirus restrictions inquiries and sales “Liam had shown his toughness on the field and I are on the rise. knew that would help him in the business world. The Liam says: “We had only just launched the franchise estate agency world is fiercely competitive - in many when we had to go into lockdown. Now the market ways it’s just like rugby league.” is moving again we’re trying to get as many viewings Kelvin says the easyProperty recruitment system is lined up as we can. We had a total of 13 in a week. tailor-made for dealing with people like Liam: “Many “The time available during lockdown meant I could companies only take on people who have been in the do more training and gain more expertise, which is business for at least two or three years. We’re looking standing me in good stead now. Selling or buying a for people with the right characteristics rather than house is more complicated than you think. experience. “I still love rugby league. I feel I’m in my prime right “We use a profiling system that ensures the now and have still got plenty of years ahead of me at franchisees we take on are dedicated, competitive and

40 WHAT FRANCHISE | ISSUE 16.2 “Liam is showing the same desire to make the business succeed as he has always shown in a Castleford shirt”

WHAT-FRANCHISE.COM 41 INTERVIEW

“I’ve gone into franchising because I want to make sure my family is financially secure when my playing days are over”

income from sales is split 70-30 between franchisee and franchisor. David says: “We’re delighted to have someone of Liam’s determination and motivation to be our representative in the Yorkshire area. “His approach to his new business is inspirational and is clearly winning the hearts and minds of buyers and sellers in Castleford with his refreshing approach towards customer service and engagement. “Our growth is ahead of schedule despite the effects of COVID-19 and is a clear indication that for people who have been working from home during the lockdown period it has given them an opportunity to reassess their work-life balance and consider using their skills to their own advantage working under the easyProperty umbrella.” “We give franchisees a business in a box,” is how have the will to win - the attributes a successful sportsman must Kelvin puts it. “We provide all the technology that’s needed for have. That’s one reason why Liam has been so successful.” marketing and advertising and also a media specialist to help with social media campaigns that nowadays are so important. DEALING WITH A LOCAL CELEBRITY “We initially limit franchisees to three territories, but once Liam says he wanted a business in Castleford. He lives in the they’ve proved the model works and everyone’s happy they can town and his wife and two sons enjoy life there. take as many territories as they want.” Kelvin points out that people like the idea of dealing with a The company has a target of 100 territories by the end of the local celebrity: “He’s having massive success and has the knack year and claims to use the latest technology to create a smooth of getting viewers interested straight away. and stress free selling experience. “For instance, last week he visited a property in Castleford at “Our industry has seen a lot of changes in the last few years, nine in the morning and by lunchtime it was sold at the asking particularly with the arrival of companies like Purplebricks and price. How many people have done that?” Yopa,” Kelvin says. “When you look around, you can see that some estate agents WE GIVE FRANCHISEES have got a little complacent. Rightmove and Zoopla are massive A BUSINESS IN A BOX lead generating tools for us, but in our opinion they can create Now owned by managing director David Brierley, but with Stelios lazy estate agents. still involved, easyProperty currently has 16 franchisees covering “How we wanted to do things was very different. For instance, 35 territories, each totalling 30,000 households. There are Liam is having lots of success on social media with Facebook, monthly fees of £350 rather than a large capital investment and Instagram, Snapchat and Twitter.

42 WHAT FRANCHISE | ISSUE 16.2 “All our guys work from home and performance squads and England our shop window is the online world. Nines. He hasn’t given up hope of a full 7 REASONS WHY We still take our properties to all the England cap and many pundits are at a major portals like the high street agents loss to explain why it hasn’t happened. LIAM WATTS would, but we do things differently by CHOSE THE having a strong social media presence. IT’S BEEN EVERYTHING “There have been some casualties on I WAS HOPING FOR EASYPROPERTY the high street since the pandemic and “If I hadn’t had the franchise, things a lot of traditional agencies are looking would have been pretty frustrating FRANCHISE at our self-employed model. That’s the during the lockdown, but it gave me the modern way now. opportunity to put time and effort into It fitted in with his interest in buying and “We get to know our buyers and the business and get things moving,” 1selling property and gave him a unique speak to them on the phone, but we Liam says. “How well we are doing has insight into the market. just don’t have a high street presence. taken me by surprise.” The grand plan is to cover the whole of What had Liam originally planned for He could work at home, enjoy family the UK and become the biggest hybrid his retirement? “My original plan was life and his wife Beth could help in the 2 estate agent. The reason Sir Stelios got buying property and doing it up - I’m business. involved is that he felt easyProperty pretty good at DIY - but I now have more He was able to continue with his rugby should be to real estate what easyJet is of an insight into the market, what to 3 league career, while building a business to the travel industry. buy, what not to buy, where to buy, not for his eventual retirement. “The busier we are and the more just jumping in,” he explains. momentum we gain, the more people “Now easyProperty is my future It was an opportunity to work will come to us. No one could have and has been everything I was hoping 4 with iconic entrepreneur Stelios predicted the coronavirus and the for. With everything being online, the Haji-Ioannou. lockdown, but Liam has been massively job fits perfectly alongside rugby. My successful through the crisis and social Online estate agencies are transforming house is my office and that was one of 5 the way people sell properties - and media is the key. the most appealing things that got me now is the time to get on board. “For instance, a man in Castleford on board. put a post on Facebook asking for “Obviously, my hours will be reduced The franchise package includes full recommendations for an estate agent. once I get back to playing rugby, but by 6 support, training, centralised digital Out of the 42 replies, 25 recommended that time I will hopefully have learned marketing and PR and a bespoke customer Liam and at the time he had only been pretty much everything I need to know relationship management system. doing the job for three weeks. for when I eventually retire and work The opportunity offers uncapped “He’s doing superbly well and has on the franchise full-time. 7 earnings potential and independence learned so much so quickly that he “I’m glad I decided to take on the to make your own decisions. now values property on his own. Only franchise while I’m still playing and yesterday he was telling me that he had while I’m still a bit of an iconic figure been out to value eight properties and in the area, rather than wait until had listed seven of them.” I’ve retired and then start learning the business and hear people saying: A LIFE IN RUGBY LEAGUE ‘Didn’t he once play for Castleford?’.” Liam says there was never much doubt he would make a life in rugby league: AHEAD OF THE GAME “Mine was a rugby family - my dad, Already Liam is wondering about grandfather and uncle all played. expanding his area, but Yorkshire When I was eight my dad took me to caution creeps in: “It would generate the amateur league club at Lock Lane, more revenue, but we would need Castleford and asked if I wanted to more staff and at the moment we’re in have a go and see if I liked it. I’ve never a good place and I’m happy with things looked back since.” as they are. Leaving school at 16, Liam became a “I want to build the brand before we junior player for Featherstone Lions. seriously think about expansion. It’s not “It was tough at first and the money about money at the moment, but about was next to nowt, but all we young lads getting to the stage where the business wanted to do was play rugby,” he says. is self sustaining. Liam made his professional debut for “Things are looking good. Estate Hull Kingston Rovers in a Challenge Cup agent’s shops will become few and fourth round tie in 2008, which resulted far between - the first thing an ever in a two-year contract. After a fine 2010 increasing number of people do is season, in which he played in 26 of 27 to look on the internet, book a video Super League matches, Liam joined the viewing and put in an offer online. England Four Nations Championship Who needs a shop? That’s why we’re training squad and was awarded the ahead of the game at the minute - 2010 Albert Goldthorpe Rookie of the and determined to stay that way.” Year medal. Kelvin goes along with that: “Liam He left Hull Kingston Rovers at the is showing the same desire to make end of the season to join Hull FC, with the business succeed as he has whom he twice won the Challenge Cup. always shown in a Castleford shirt. Since joining Castleford Tigers in 2018, To me, that’s a pretty good guarantee Liam has been called up for England for success.”

WHAT-FRANCHISE.COM 43 BEHIND THE BRAND: PARTNER CONTENT

AT A GLANCE ACTIONCOACH

From rock Established: 1993 in Australia. 2001 in UK Number of franchised outlets: 200-plus in the UK Location of units: UK-wide bottom to Investment range: £69,000 Minimum required capital: £20,000 Contact: If you want to create an overwhelming difference in your local community and fighting back you’re the kind of person who: A. Loves learning and developing yourself; B. Has enjoyed success in your career or sport; and James Burke has gone from living on the C. Is willing to invest if they see substantial returns can be made… streets to earning a six-figure income as an Then find out more by watching the overview video at actioncoach.co.uk/ ActionCOACH franchise partner overview

t the age of 16, James thought my career would head in hung up for the last time - a final Burke went from that direction, but when I got kicked blow to the young man. boxing champ to being out of school and my family home “I was forced to retire from A boxing and I lost my identity,” homeless. Within it had to be put on hold. I slept on 10 years of sleeping rough on park benches, friends’ sofas and in James says. “After a few years, at the streets, his Salford-based an old outhouse toilet.” the age of 23, I looked at myself and ActionCOACH business, which he Between the ages of 16 and 18 knew I’d had enough. I made sure launched in 2018, is generating a James lived rough, until he moved I was healthy, both physically and mentally, and started looking for a six-figure turnover. into a Wigan hostel where he stayed new direction. His story certainly isn’t for several years. His boxing days “I got a job at an estate something he hides. In fact, it’s were about to come to an abrupt agents and worked my way up made him who he is today and is end too. to branch manager in two and a one of the reasons for his success. Two people close to him died, half years - helping the outlet to James explains: “When I was bringing on a bout of severe win a national award for profit younger, all I wanted to do was be depression, he had his jaw growth. After proving myself, I a boxer. I was training constantly broken and was diagnosed with got a job as an area director of and getting stronger by the day. I osteoporosis. His gloves had to be Yopa estate agencies.” As a firm believer in the power of personal and professional development, James discovered the work of famous author and motivational speaker, Simon

James with Lauren and Lilly returning back to the UK

James Burke helping business owners to success

44 WHAT FRANCHISE | ISSUE 16.2 Behind the Brand - Xxxxxxxxxxx ActionCOACH

James delivering a seminar to help local business owners grow and develop

“It was extremely beneficial to be in an environment where everyone is hungry to succeed”

Sinek. Simon showed James how to find his ‘why’ and create achievable goals, not just for his own success, but for others too. The seed was planted. “I wanted to make a difference to a million people by 2030, but I knew it wasn’t going to be possible by staying in the property world,” James says. “I had to do something else.”

A REAL CONTENDER He thought long and hard about how his skill set would be best employed to support his ambitious goal. He had experience in leading a team, coaching individuals, goal setting and marketing, so his instinct led him to start his own business consultancy. Although his business showed the model, I could see the process business on my own, it wouldn’t promise and was already delivering of testing and measuring my have been possible to keep it going.” results, he couldn’t help but think marketing activities was the most of how to take it further. A simple efficient way of generating new PACKING A PUNCH clients going forwards. I very Google search gave him the answer Since then, it would be an quickly found my feet, winning new - ActionCOACH. understatement to say James’ business and supporting clients to “I knew I could learn a thing business has started making achieve tangible results quite early or two from them, as they were an impact. He already achieves on in my business.” the world’s number one business a monthly client income of A few months in, James, his now coaching franchise,” James says. £12,000 with 24 clients - ranging fiancée, Lauren, and son, Matthew, “Joining them would give me the from start-ups to multi-million went on holiday to Ibiza. The couple opportunity to reach my goal pound businesses. were expecting their second child more quickly.” Each month, his free seminars get and wanted to have their last break He wasted no time in deciding between 100-150 attendees and the before their daughter arrived. Little ActionCOACH was for him. James imminent launch of his new book, did they know, this holiday would be realised he could utilise the The Journey to Wealth and a World- one they would never forget. support of the franchise to achieve Class Mindset, have given him the “The day we got to Ibiza, Lilly his own personal mission and was opportunity to progress towards his was born,” James says. “She was 10 awarded his franchise in early goal even further. weeks early and we had to spend a 2018. In May of the same year, he “Now I’m 30, I want to build an total of nine weeks on the island. completed his initial training at ActionCOACH hub in Manchester Luckily, I could still operate my ActionCOACH University. with three extra territories,” James business from Ibiza. “The training was excellent,” says. “I’ve recently taken my first “With ActionCOACH’s exclusive James says. “It was everything I step in that journey and invested client generation centre actively was promised and more - it was in my first exclusive ActionCOACH supporting my marketing and extremely beneficial to be in an territory, where I have the enquiries, I was able to carry on environment where everyone is opportunity to positively impact growing the business while being hungry to succeed, we could work 10,000 businesses - which doesn’t there for my family. I would travel together and support one another just benefit business owners, but home every fortnight for two days on our journeys. their employees and families too. to do group coaching sessions and “The first few weeks after “I’m well on my way to making completed my one-to-one sessions launching the business were a a difference to a million people using Skype. If I’d have been in huge learning curve. By following by 2030.”

WHAT-FRANCHISE.COM 45 OPINION

Small business - big brand

Franchising is a great way to own a fully formed enterprise with a strong community spirit

WORDS BY SUZIE MCCAFFERTY

f you’ve had even a annoys me most about the message is idea has been developed, a brand cursory look at social that the majority of people still don’t has been established and marketed I media lately, you’ll have seem to understand what franchising and the business model has been seen a variety of posts is all about. proven to be profitable. encouraging us to support local With this in mind, it seems like Secondly, the franchisor with the businesses coming out of lockdown a good time to remind people why great business idea and tried and and to shun the big-name operators franchising is such a great way to get tested business model will provide THE AUTHOR because ‘they have deep pockets, so into business for yourself, locally. training and support to ensure you Suzie McCafferty will be fine’. ​Many people dream of being their have the greatest possible chance of is CEO of franchise It’s a strong message and if you own boss, but the failure rates of new making the business work. consultancy Platinum Wave don’t dig below the surface it might independent business start-ups - They profit when you profit, so you even seem like the right thing to do. typically more than half fold in the first could say they’re highly invested in However, a lot of those big brands are five years - reflects just how difficult your success. When the right franchisee franchised, so it’s highly likely that that dream can be to fulfil. finds the right franchisor, along with some local businesses are owned by There are many reasons for these hard work and dedication, both parties a local person who’s both serving and disheartening statistics. Some people can enjoy major success and develop a employing local people. aren’t suited to having their own long and fruitful franchise relationship. business, their idea wasn’t good Securing finance for your new Lack of understanding enough, they got the branding wrong business can be made much easier While I applaud the sentiment around or there was never a market for the with franchising. Banks see you’ll buying and supporting local, what product or service in the first place. be replicating a business that has Franchising can offer a pretty already been successful and profitable, fantastic solution to many of so they have much more reason to “When you buy a these issues. bet on you making it work than with something untested. franchise, you’ll be handed Profits are proven Firstly, the business has already been Support system a blueprint for success” proven as a success. A great business Joining a franchise network means you have a strong support system in place from day one that’s dedicated to your long-term success. Whether or not you already have expertise in the industry, when you buy a franchise you will be trained in every aspect of running your business and handed a blueprint for success to follow. So next time a friend tells you not to buy your burger from ‘there’ or take your kids to ‘that’ class, you can tell them that even though the brand and system might be nationally known, the business is very much locally owned.

46 WHAT FRANCHISE | ISSUE 16.2 BEHIND THE BRAND: PARTNER CONTENT Behind the Brand - Revive! Auto Innovations (UK)

AT A GLANCE Stepping REVIVE! AUTO INNOVATIONS (UK)

Established: 2004 outside their Number of franchised outlets: 60 Location of units: nationwide Investment range: comfort zone £32,000 Minimum required capital: £15,000 Contact: [email protected] The flexible Revive! franchise has been brilliant for revivefranchise.com Dan and Natalie Normanton They freely admit that it wasn’t their intention to get this big! They wanted a sustainable business that could pay the bills and the mortgage. However, they both quickly saw the opportunity and their business has naturally evolved; the work has come in and they’ve grown and grown.

AWARD WINNERS The pair were elated to win Bronze in the Revive! Franchisee of the Year awards at the annual conference earlier in the year. Natalie says: “We were delighted to receive this award and it was especially rewarding as the whole team were at the ceremony to celebrate. To top things off, our supervisor, Stuart Cooper, was also named a runner up for UK Technician of the Year. All in all, it was a very successful night for us.” hen they started their family, franchisee, so already had an insight They both credit the support and Dan and Natalie Normanton of into the opportunity available. encouragement from the business Revive! Trafford were looking Neither Dan nor Natalie had run development team at Revive! head W a business or gone to university. But for more flexibility in their work office for helping their business without sacrificing time with their children. they knew how much support they’d grow - they wouldn’t have pushed They got that and much more with a get from head office on establishing themselves outside their comfort thriving car repair management franchise, and growing a successful business. zone without encouragement from employing six technicians and building a It was that desire to stay at home the franchisor. secure future ahead of them. and have the flexibility around their Thanks to their franchise, Dan family that gave Dan and Natalie the and Natalie have been able to buy “We’ve come out as two inspiration to invest in a franchise. a bigger house by the school they Natalie’s hours are flexible, so wanted their children to go to. They people in our forties with a when their children were young she go on the holidays they want to could work when they were having a go on, they’ve got a nice car, they great business” nap or when they were doing other live in a nice house in a nice area - things at the weekend. Running their financially, they’re happy. Revive! franchise means Dan and “The franchise has been brilliant VALUABLE INSIGHT Natalie are both able to spend time for us,” Natalie says. “The support In 2007, Dan and Natalie had their first with their children every morning we’ve had has been really good baby on the way. So with help from their and every evening. throughout. Going in as two people family, they decided to start their own Dan and Natalie manage a team of in their twenties who had no idea franchise so Natalie could help run the six technicians in total: four SMART what we were doing, we’ve come out business from home. Dan was employed repair technicians and two dedicated as two people in our forties with a as a technician by another Revive! alloy wheel repair technicians. great business.”

WHAT-FRANCHISE.COM 47 BEHIND THE BRAND: PARTNER CONTENT Behind the Brand - OSCAR Pet Foods

AT A GLANCE OSCAR PET Digital FOODS Established: 1994 Number of franchised outlets: connectivity 100-plus Location of units: nationwide Investment range: from £8,995 (plus VAT) is crucial Minimum required capital: £8,995 (plus VAT) Contact: Janet Walmsley. 0800 068 1106 OSCAR Pet Foods used technology to assist its oscar.co.uk franchisees and customers as COVID-19 triggered a national lockdown by strength of connectivity. Thanks to technology, OSCAR has successfully switched learning from quickly as possible and facilitating classroom to front room, with new homeworking to minimise the franchisees completing its entire risk of infection turned out to in-house course from the comfort of be relatively easy, using bespoke their own homes. connections software. It allows Stockport franchisee Brian Hulme OSCAR to give franchisees the same says: “I’ve always been realistic level of service and enables them to about my business, which has helped keep up with the increased demand me to stay focused and also helped for OSCAR products as customers me to succeed and meet my targets. self isolate at home. “From the start, I exceeded my The company’s customer centre expectations and OSCAR kept me and product centre - processing in touch with changes, of which and dispatching both franchisee over 15 years there have been more and customer orders - continue than a few.” to work efficiently using personal protective equipment. “OSCAR has SUPPORTING FRANCHISEES successfully Remote working is easier for everyone with cloud meeting and switched learning team collaboration tools. OSCAR provides a collection of from classroom to integrated online solutions and SCAR Pet Foods is no social networking services for its front room” stranger to technology. franchisees - supporting extensive O As one of the UK’s top customisation, while keeping LOOKING TO THE FUTURE pet industry franchisors, everyone focused on brand and Coronavirus has turned technology the company actively supports its expectation. into a necessity and companies that franchisees by promoting digital The scrutiny of British Franchise use it well will stay ahead of their connectivity and cooperation - Association membership lends competitors. nationwide. valuable credit to the brand and the Technology is enabling OSCAR OSCAR network community ensures to deliver an essential service with SUPPORTING CUSTOMERS franchisees and employees have confidence and safety. As COVID-19 triggered a national easy access to the most up-to-date The company says it will be lockdown, OSCAR’s thoughts quickly company communications and keeping an eye out for when it can turned to protecting staff, franchisees marketing support. return to supporting its franchisees and customers. Keeping franchisees in the face to face, but until then will It worked hard to overcome know about everything OSCAR continue to learn how technology uncertainty with positivity - adapting does and enabling them to meet can help OSCAR grow as a company. and embracing the latest technology online, share files, chat, manage Beyond COVID-19, there’s only one to continue serving customers safely, projects and network with potential certainty: the unique role that pets while delivering their essential pet clients anywhere, any time is key play in meeting the vital human need supplies. to the company’s belief that for comfort and companionship will Moving staff out of offices as success and resilience are driven always be in demand.

48 WHAT FRANCHISE | ISSUE 16.2 WHAT FRANCHISE 16_2 master_WHAT FRANCHISE 14/07/2020 14:23 Page 49 INSIGHT

9 mistakes franchisees make - and how to avoid them These business blunders could end your dream of franchise success

WORDS BY STEVE WITT

t’s a fact: franchises they’re having their lunch. You’ll you’ll see that it’s essential to are far more resilient never know if you don’t make track return on investment on I than non-franchise the call. your efforts and how you spend start-ups. While 58 per each hour. cent of non-franchise businesses You’re not fail in their first five years, 82 following You don’t know per cent of franchises thrive way instructions the value of your THE AUTHOR beyond that time. 2 A benefit of buying into a franchise own time Steve Witt is co- However, some franchises fail 4 is that there’s a well trodden path, By doing a simple calculation, you founder of Not Just to get off the ground and flourish lined with proven strategies and can work out exactly what your time Travel and The Travel into long-term, income generating Franchise tactics, to follow. Many people costs. That will help you work out businesses. These are some of the have taken that route to success how many networking events to go reasons why: before you and know what works to versus how much desk-bound and what doesn’t. The trouble time to dedicate to making those You’re not taking starts when you veer off the path sales calls. Here’s how to do it: the right action and do your own thing. Or you Work out how much you want to 1 One of the comforts of don’t follow it at all. earn in a year, then divide that by becoming a franchisee is that much At Not Just Travel, we teach 52 weeks. Next, work out how many of the work behind the scenes has a proven way to build your hours you’re willing to work per already been done for you. network. We’ve created a business week. Divide your weekly earnings You’ve got the company’s generic management tool that makes figure by that number to get your website, much of the marketing procedures and processes run hourly rate. is done for you and the brand is smoothly. We devise marketing in place. This is when you can and social media material for You undervalue easily fall into the trap of sitting our franchisees. It’s important your business back and waiting for the sales to they use them and follow our potential recommendations. 5 magically come flooding in. You We all unknowingly place limits on procrastinate and spend time ourselves. Or in other words, lack decorating your office, designing You’re not self belief. your business cards and tidying up tracking return Are you familiar with the fleas in your spreadsheets. None of this is 3 on investment a jar experiment? Scientists put a going to build your business. Albert Einstein famously said that number of fleas in a jar and then When it comes to getting your the definition of insanity is doing sealed the jar for three days. After business up and running, you the same thing over and over again that time, the lid was removed, need to generate sales. You need and expecting a different result. but the fleas had conditioned to network, create opportunities, How many of us do exactly that themselves to the level set by the spread the word and chase leads. when running our business? lid, so none of them jumped out. It’s easy to justify why you’re Once you start tracking what In a similar way, we’re not going to pick up the phone and works and what doesn’t and prone to conditioning our speak to that potential customer. recognising that your time is one mindsets to the perceived It’s not the right time or perhaps of your most valuable resources, yet non-existent limits we place on ourselves. What happens when “The trouble starts when you veer off there’s no jar or lid and you the path and do your own thing” recognise

50 WHAT FRANCHISE | ISSUE 16.2 that unlimited income is You have a lack younger, standing up in front of a something you can achieve? of focus room full of people was a terrifying For example, if someone earned Some people are distracted experience in the early days. £35,000 in their previous role, 8 So accept you’re going to have by the next shiny object: another their goal is to replace that by way of making money, a new to do some uncomfortable things. becoming a franchisee. But why not project or a new job. If they don’t For some, that means picking up £135,000? After all, a franchise is get instant gratification, they the phone. For others, that means an opportunity to earn unlimited move onto the next thing. It’s an attending networking events income. Who is placing the limit on expensive attitude to have. or public speaking. For many, what you can achieve? You. Building your own business is that means closing a sale. So a marathon, not a sprint. It takes many people avoid it in case the You don’t take hard work before you can reap the prospective customer says no. your franchise rewards. The people who commit Acknowledge your fears and business seriously long-term are the ones who succeed. confront them head first in order to 6 quash them. It’s the way to success. For some, their business is a hobby, not a career. But it can easily fall You’re not willing Trust me. by the wayside if they don’t take it to step outside seriously. your comfort zone It takes time and energy for a 9 If you’re going to run a profitable franchise to succeed. Set yourself business, you’ll need to step outside strict sales goals and work hard your comfort zone. I’ve had to do it to achieve them. And once you’ve countless times. reached them, move the targets As a shy person higher. Do this and you’ll soon find who had a speech your hobby has become your career. impediment when I was You feel too safe Some people come into 7 money, are backed by a wealthy partner or have sold a property so they can live off the earnings. They are the ones who aren’t hungry enough to fulfil their franchise’s full potential. It’s the people who have sleepless nights about paying their bills and their children’s future who make sure they’re profitable - and fast.

WHAT-FRANCHISE.COM 51 WHAT FRANCHISE 16_2 master_WHAT FRANCHISE 16/07/2020 09:56 Page 52 BEHIND THE BRAND: PARTNER CONTENT Behind the Brand - Just Shutters Franchise

AT A GLANCE JUST SHUTTERS FRANCHISE

Established: 2006 Just the ticket Number of franchised outlets: 20 Location of units: across England and North Wales A Just Shutters franchise combines an enviable lifestyle Investment range: £27,000 (plus VAT) Contact: 01202 240769 with a proven franchise model shutter-franchise.co.uk

re you looking to take enhance the customer’s home control of your life, and expertly fitted. Just Shutters “Even during A be your own boss and has built a reputation and brand economic enjoy the perks of a affection you can’t buy - becoming great life-work balance? loved by customers across the downturns, the If your answer is a resounding country. It’s Checkatrade approved ‘yes’, then the Just Shutters and with five star reviews, Just shutter market home-based franchise could be Shutters is always the highest rated just the ticket. shutter company in the UK. is robust and Just Shutters is looking for self However, despite the size of the motivated people like you to join company, Just Shutters doesn’t do growing” its franchise family. The company corporate or faceless - it’s human, was founded in 2006 and has grown approachable and dedicated to sales and profits. During the steadily year on year - it now has ensuring every customer is thrilled COVID-19 pandemic, its innovative thriving franchises covering over with their new shutters. home measuring kit ensured a 175 towns and cities across the UK. steady stream of new customers. THE INDUSTRY And now the company is trading as CORE VALUES Even during economic usual, the phones are ringing off Just Shutters is a specialist. It only downturns, the shutter market is the hook. does plantation shutters, hence robust and growing. Customers the name. are always willing to spend INVEST IN YOURSELF The company prides itself not money to have their homes reflect Just Shutters franchise only on the quality of its products, their style and personality. opportunities start at £27,000 but on its expertise - every shutter During the financial crisis of (plus VAT). The company can is made to measure, designed to 2008, Just Shutters had record put you in touch with third party lenders if required. The team will explain why a Just Shutters franchise combines an enviable lifestyle, which allows you to spend more time doing the things you love, with a proven franchise model. Current franchisees are making £75,000-£90,000 profit per annum by year three.

UNRIVALLED SUPPORT Just Shutters allows franchisees to retain control of their lives while benefiting from unparalleled support, including full comprehensive training and a generous launch package to ongoing sales, specialist marketing and operational support. Josie Mitchell, Just Shutters’ marketing manager, says: “Giving our franchisees an extra £5,000 towards their marketing launch allows them to make a flying start. The package includes three months’ PPC, emarketing, advertising, editorial coverage and so much more.”

WHAT-FRANCHISE.COM 53 INSIGHT

A solid foundation for future prosperity An established franchisor details what his franchisees get for their investment - and why

WORDS BY RIK HELLEWELL

any people who are brand that is built upon tried and appliance, but also that they gain attracted to running tested products and procedures. the necessary marketing, pricing, a franchise have a From the start, we do everything bookkeeping and data storage M long-held ambition to possible to ensure that they are knowledge to run a successful be their own boss and a desire to set for success. and profitable business. generate a decent income in return Ovenu is the world’s largest They’re also equipped with for their hard work. network of locally-based, everything they require to produce THE AUTHOR For some, it’s a lifestyle choice; franchised oven cleaning world class results, including all the Rik Hellewell is they wish to adapt their working life and valeting experts who are tools, and we even ensure vehicles managing director to fit around their home life, rather recognised for their outstanding are professionally sign written to of Ovenu than the other way around. level of customer service. ensure corporate uniformity. Whatever the motivation, most Our technicians have earned In addition, we supply enough of have little to no practical experience more than 26,000 of the highest our bespoke products and quality of running a business and this can be five-star ratings on review site consumables for the franchisee’s hugely daunting. TRUSTist, so it’s no surprise that first three months of trading. The Those who do have previous much of our business is founded core eco-friendly product range, experience often find themselves on repeat custom. That is the costing just three percent of heading down the franchise route benefit of joining such a powerful turnover, is unique and meets all because their former ventures did not and recognisable brand. current legislation and health and quite go to plan. That might be due to In return, Ovenu’s foundation safety requirements, reflecting a lack of expertise in a key area, their franchise costs £9,950 (plus VAT) Ovenu’s sustainable ethos. product or service not being quite and the standard franchise, which right or just sheer bad luck. comes with a larger territory, costs Sales leads and £15,900 (plus VAT). marketing assistance Main advantage: Using our proven systems, extensive training Sharing of knowledge franchisees receive direct sales and support and expertise leads to quickly generate turnover I would argue that the main What do you receive for and profits. advantage of buying a franchise is your money? I believe our There is the potential for each the extensive level of support on franchise package is the most franchisee to generate turnover offer, something no start-up could comprehensive in the sector and of well over £1,100 a week and ever hope to afford or access. part of its success is founded many go on to expand their Franchisees receive a on my commitment to share the businesses, run extra vans and comprehensive training package company’s 26 years of knowledge make even more money. We also and enjoy back up from a major and expertise. put together a digital Firstly, all franchisees attend marketing campaign a five-day induction course and across a range of no prior experience is needed. This not only ensures each one MONEY WELL SPENT is thoroughly trained in how to clean and valet a cooking 6 INGREDIENTS OF A FIRST CLASS “The most important FRANCHISE 1 Comprehensive training. 2 Back-up from an established brand. aspect of any franchise 3 Tried and tested procedures. 4 Marketing assistance and client leads. is its people” 5 Cutting edge products and services. 6 A culture of collaboration and support.

54 WHAT FRANCHISE | ISSUE 16.2 platforms to support sales and They remain the best possible “It’s vital to both customer engagement. adverts for the business and as a result must believe in the listen and learn if the Keeping franchisees product and feel invested in, and business is to continue ahead of the competition appreciated by, the business. Franchises must always look to That is why we hold to move forward ” innovate. An investment of more both regional and national than £15,000 in the mid-2000s conferences. I personally look allowed Ovenu to build autonomous forward to meeting and speaking websites for each of its franchises, with the more than 100 Ovenu allowing customers to contact franchisees in the UK, most of them directly. whom are sole traders. The network has also It’s vital to both listen and introduced a centralised 0800 learn if the business is to freephone number for prospective continue to move forward and for clients to call as an alternative, our franchisees to communicate with a facility to route all calls with one another. This element directly to franchisees. proved itself through the initial Ovenu has kept ahead of coronavirus lockdown period, its competitors by constantly when our businesses temporarily reinvesting in the business and closed. is currently on version six of its I took the decision to hold consumer website and version three regular Zoom meetings with of its franchisee recruitment site. franchisees and they’ve been As well as tracking and managing so popular I’m considering customer interaction and prospects, continuing the practice even once our bespoke and cost-effective CRM the pandemic is under control. system also contains the Ovenu It has allowed those who manual as well as a range of self- normally operate in their own help documents and videos that little bubble to communicate, franchisees can turn to if they need exchange ideas and, above all, further support. It also doubles support one another through as an excellent communication these most challenging of times. channel and allows everyone to The result has been that keep up to date. Ovenu franchisees have an even stronger affinity with the An ongoing investment brand and encourages long-term in people commitment, which really is However, the most important worth pursuing. aspect of any franchise is its people, especially in the oven valeting business, where our franchisees are crucial to ensuring we continue to deliver the highest standards of customer service.

WHAT-FRANCHISE.COM 55 BEHIND THE BRAND: PARTNER CONTENT Behind the Brand - Driving Miss Daisy

AT A GLANCE So much more DRIVING MISS DAISY Established: early 2015 in the UK Number of franchised outlets: than just a 35 Location of units: UK-wide Investment range: franchise licenses start at £5,000 (plus taxi service VAT), with total start-up costs starting in the region of £12,000 (licensing and vehicle deposit). Start-up costs vary depending on where you live Contact: Paul Nuth, founder of Driving Miss Daisy UK, 0333 0146211 drivingmissdaisy.co.uk gives us the lowdown

HERE DID THE DRIVING MISS DAISY BUSINESS W ORIGINATE? It was first established in Canada and opened in New Zealand in 2009. Melanie Harper, along with her husband Jack, started the service in New Zealand. Mel used to drive her elderly aunt Trish to various appointments, but not wishing to continuously impose on family life Trish paid for a companion to drive her at the times she found convenient, giving her independence and control and removing a feeling of indebtedness to her family. Mel realised this was being repeated in other families and saw a business opportunity. Driving Miss Daisy has been operating in the UK since early 2015. HOW BIG IS DEMAND There are hundreds of thousands of “This franchise attracts FOR THE COMPANY’S people in the UK who experience this SERVICES? all the time and Driving Miss Daisy people who want to It’s significant. There are currently 12 can help those who need that extra million people aged 65 or over in the support and companionship to live deliver a service to the UK and by 2036 that number will be their lives to the fullest, regardless of over 20 million. any physical or mental barriers. That’s community enabling choice, When people no longer drive, they why we use the phrase: ‘We are family often experience isolation, loneliness when family can’t be there’. independence, active help a lack of independence and family dislocation. There are in excess of WHAT’S THE ROLE OF and companionship” 12 million people in the UK living A DRIVING MISS DAISY with a disability, over 20 per cent FRANCHISEE? WHAT SERVICES DOES THE of whom report difficulty in finding This franchise attracts people who BUSINESS PROVIDE? transportation. want to deliver a service to the Driving Miss Daisy provides a trusted, safe and The demand for this service comes community. Most do the driving reliable driving and companion service for those not only from the clients themselves, and provide the companionship who find it hard to get out and about. but from family members who juggle themselves, but some will employ The prime point of difference is that, more careers, plus growing families of their additional companion drivers as than just travelling from A to B, it provides own, alongside elderly parents and they add more vehicles in their companionship and assistance for the duration of relatives who are often not in the same territory. Some run their business as a each and every journey - for the elderly, children geographical area. management franchise. and people with disabilities, among many others. Recently, everyone has experienced There are currently 35 franchises Companion drivers collect clients, take them to what it means to not be able to leave in the UK and there are opportunities and from their destination and provide personal the house when you want and do the throughout the UK, specifically in assistance as required, with anything from simple things, like meet friends for a the north of England, North Wales, medical appointments to shopping or to make coffee, go to the shops or go to East Midlands, Essex, the south social outings possible and, most of all, enjoyable. the hairdressers. east and Scotland.

56 WHAT FRANCHISE | ISSUE 16.2 BEHIND THE BRAND: PARTNER CONTENT Behind the Brand - Franchise Resales

AT A GLANCE FRANCHISE RESALES

Contact: Tel: 01522 246811 Digital Email: [email protected] franchiseresales.co.uk transformation “Franchise Resales wants Franchise Resales’ new online portal is the clients to be able perfect tool for buyers to work to a time and schedule that here’s no denying franchisees and finally franchisors that this year has coming later in the year. suits them” been a significant T one for business. The MOVING FORWARD coronavirus outbreak has had an There are only 37 hours in a typical schedule that suits them. With impact that nobody was expecting, working week, but as businesses its online portal, you’ll be with digital technology becoming become more flexible and fluid able to access the company’s more important than ever. the typical 9-5 working day isn’t secure service 24 hours a day, Businesses have had to suitable any more. seven days a week. adapt to remote working, using So with this in mind, Franchise To get started, you’ll need collaboration tools and video Resales has developed a portal that to create an account and sign conferencing apps that until gives you access to the information a non-disclosure agreement - now were treated as second rate you need to consider a sale and the security of all data is a top compared to meeting face to face. conduct your research. priority. Once approved, you’ll Franchise Resales is no exception. be able to view all business The company has always THE EVOLUTION OF information for the sector used video conferencing to FRANCHISE RESALES you’ve chosen to help you find communicate as a team - as they Franchise Resales was launched your next franchise opportunity. live all over the country. Over the in 2007. Since then it’s worked You’ll be able to view past year it’s been thinking about with hundreds of franchisees and information at any time, as well how it can achieve a smarter, franchisors looking to achieve a as have direct access to the more effective way of running the return on their investment. The account manager, making it business to ensure clients receive company prides itself on being even simpler to get started with the best service possible. the best in the business and your sale. Franchise Resales is finally has used its expertise and tried ready to unveil its new plans, and tested methods to create GET STARTED WITH as phase one is now complete. a progressive, innovative tool FRANCHISE RESALES And it couldn’t have come at a that will take the hassle out of Digital transformation is better time, what with the new complex sales transactions. happening now. Find out more emphasis on tech. about Franchise Resales’ new The company’s new online portal WELCOME TO THE service by getting in touch or is the perfect tool for buyers and RESALES REVOLUTION sign up today and be one of the will transform the way it works Franchise Resales wants clients first to take advantage of the new in the future, with a portal for to be able to work to a time and franchise resales portal.

WHAT-FRANCHISE.COM 57 INTERVIEWS MAKE THE MOVE FROM EMPLOYEE TO FRANCHISEE

Franchising can give you a new lease of life if you find yourself at a career crossroads

he desire to be your boss is still strong among the UK population. T 1,843 new businesses were Simon Herbert founded every day during the 2018-19 tax year - 672,890 in total - a jump DREAM DOORS of 8.5 per cent compared to the previous 12-month period and the highest number of incorporations since 2009-10, which followed the financial crisis and subsequent economic “I’d never go back downturn brought about by the credit crunch of 2008. to employment” People are motivated to start their own business for a number of reasons, including dissatisfaction with their job, the prospect opportunity with Dream Doors. of earning more money, the chance to do After experiencing running my own something they love and a fear of redundancy. Former engineer Simon Herbert says business, the thought of going back However, many are put off by their lack he never felt completely comfortable into employment - I just couldn’t of a viable business idea, fear of failure, working for someone else, which do it.” insufficient skills and a belief that going it is why he opened Dream Doors’ Dream Doors franchisees alone will lead to increased stress levels. Gloucester showroom two years ago. specialise in replacing kitchen doors, There are no such barriers if you become But despite admitting no one drawers and worktops, as well as a franchisee. was more surprised than he was offering full refits. They also reface Franchisees run their own businesses when he decided to invest in one and refit bedrooms. using tried and tested systems and know- of the kitchen makeover company’s “The biggest positive with Dream how that have been developed over a number franchises, he’s enjoying building a Doors is the support you get from of years and in a range of locations by an business with the help of a brand that head office,” Simon says. “You get experienced franchisor, who not only provides has over 90 outlets in the UK. the safety net of the business model comprehensive training, but also a package of Simon says: “I had been in and and everything else that comes support that promotes growth. out of engineering roles for about with being in a franchise business. This has led to the number of UK franchise 18 years. I was made redundant Running your own business makes units increasing 10 per cent to 48,600 since from Toyota in 2007 and started an you realise you wouldn’t want to go 2015, according to the British Franchise advertising business, which I ran for back to wilful employment.” Association, and 93 per cent of franchisees seven years. Simon’s advice for someone reporting profitability. “I ended up going back to Toyota considering leaving their job and Nevertheless, it takes guts and for two years, but it wasn’t really for becoming a franchisee? determination to go from employee to me - I went back to save up some “I was handing my life savings over franchisee, but the rewards can make the money. I was getting franchise to Dream Doors, as well as selling move worthwhile, as the following case newsletters at the time and saw this my car and taking out a business studies prove:

58 WHAT FRANCHISE | ISSUE 16.2 Stuart Harley COMPUTERXPLORERS

“It’s reassuring to know I have such a capable team behind me”

Stuart Harley was inspired to leave the Interest in his business is high, car industry behind after witnessing his according to Stuart, who’s now two young sons - then aged two and recruiting more teachers for his team. three - engage with technology. During lockdown, ComputerXplorers He’d spent 10 years as a sales supported schools who were caring for manager in the automotive sector children of key workers and provided before he became a ComputerXplorers online virtual computing and tech franchisee in October 2019 and clubs for pupils who were being home is already working with a number schooled. of schools and nurseries in the Stuart’s plan is to expand his the sector your franchise operates in, Southampton area to help children franchise further across the south franchisees do need to possess certain develop important skills such as coding, and south west. Franchising isn’t for qualities to succeed. programming, 3D modelling, robotics everyone though and while you don’t “You need a huge array of different and animation. necessarily need any experience in skills,” Stuart says. “In the early days, you Stuart says: “When I first reached out are essentially salesperson, operations to the team, they gave me an honest director, appraisal of the business opportunity administrator, and the training and set-up support has accountant been spot on. and the “I hit the ground running and secured staff to my first customers quickly, thanks to make it a strong online presence. I’m looking happen. forward to building my business and it’s “If I had to reassuring to know I have such a capable narrow it down, team behind me.” you need to be a go getter, hard-working, optimistic, resilient, a people person and results motivated.” Stuart says the main difference between being an loan, so make sure you do your employee and a franchisee research into the company you’re is the feeling of freedom and sense of getting involved with, check out achievement you feel: “You’re building their history, track something for you and your family’s record and the future and you can be as flexible as you returns on your want to be. investment “Working from home is definitely the to limit biggest challenge, with my two young your risk.” boys wanting to help whenever they And can, but I have a hugely supportive wife, his biggest who has made the transition a lot easier. challenge when “The ComputerXplorers head office making the transition team have also been brilliant - they’re from employee to franchisee? always at the end of the phone if I “Getting over the initial fear need them and nothing has been too of it all going wrong, leaving my much trouble.” guaranteed wage and five weeks’ holiday entitlement and jumping into the known, which I’m sure is the same for everyone. “But if you accept the commitment and the long hours, the end result is worth it.”

WHAT-FRANCHISE.COM 59 INTERVIEWS

Abhi Prakash SUBWAY

“I grew tired of working for others or sitting at a desk”

Abhi Prakash became disillusioned Following completion of the with life as an employee fairly soon course, Subway’s team of business after graduating from university development agents were with a medical degree. available to answer any questions With a desire to own his own or offer advice. business, he decided a franchise Since opening his franchise, would be the best and lowest risk Abhi says his work-life balance route to becoming his own boss. has improved and he now enjoys For Abhi, the choice of franchise the independence of being his wasn’t a difficult one. While he own boss. While the store is had no previous experience in the still in its infancy, he plans to sector, Abhi knew he wanted to continue working on the front work within the food industry for line, serving customers and a well known brand that had low making sure customer service costs. Subway was the obvious levels are maintained. choice and he opened his first Running the store is a family franchise in Ilkeston, Derby at the affair for Abhi - his brother and age of 27. girlfriend are among the 12 “I grew tired of working for members of staff he employs. others or sitting at a desk,” Abhi His brother usually opens up the explains. “I wanted to be physically store in the morning and has a “I wanted to be involved in a business, making the hands-on role in its running, so decisions and on my feet, not sat much so that Abhi is working physically involved in down all day.” with him to open his own The support offered by Subway Subway franchise. a business, making the was a big factor in his choice of “I’m hoping to help my decisions and on my feet, franchise. Abhi and his brother brother open a Subway store both attended a two-week in the next six months,” Abhi not sat down all day” training course at the company’s says. “But right now my focus UK and Ireland support centre in is on my store and while I hope Cambridge, where they took part to expand I want to get my first in both classroom and store- store exactly right before I think based training. about opening another.”

60 WHAT FRANCHISE | ISSUE 16.2 Hanri van der Merwe & Rene Swart F45 TRAINING

“I always thought there must be more to life than the day-to-day rat race”

In 2009 Hanri van der Merwe moved to the UK “We’ve managed to build a special community from South Africa with her partner Rene Swart in and have loads of loyal members,” Hanri says. search of new opportunities. Instead of finding “We run two classes every day and make them what she was looking for, she ended up in a job available on demand via a private members’ that left her feeling unhappy and unfulfilled. Instagram account. We’re also offering personal It was then the fitness enthusiasts came training sessions, which are very popular.” across functional fitness brand F45 Training while Hanri’s parent’s worked for themselves, as did they were preparing for various races and half her grandparents. marathons. “That was all I ever knew and that’s why that Hanri says: “I always thought there must be was naturally my goal in life.” she says. “It was more to life than the day-to-day rat race and strange at first that there was no one to answer believe the only way to be financially free is to to and the buck stops with you. It’s scary, but I live work for yourself. by the Richard Branson quote ‘Fake it until you “It’s not purely about financial freedom, but also make it’. about being free in general. It’s hard work, but I get “I also quickly learned that structure and routine to decide how I work - and that’s the beauty of it.” are key elements, otherwise it’s very easy to get Hanri and Rene opened the doors of their up at 9am and go to bed at midnight.” London F45 Training franchise in February 2019. Hanri and Rene’s biggest test was trying to “Our member count increased steadily every understand an industry they didn’t know much month and we were breaking even after about about. But that’s the beauty of franchising: five months,” Hanri says. “Just before COVID, our franchisees are able to tap into the franchisor’s member count was on 200, which we were very knowledge and receive a degree of handholding happy about." not available to independent start-ups. During lockdown the pair ran live online The pair will become multi-unit franchisees classes and managed to retain around 100 of when they open their second studio in their members. Walthamstow later this year. Hanri has this advice if you’re at a career crossroads and are considering investing in a franchise: “Timing is everything, so make sure you leave your current job at the right time. “Do your homework and speak to current franchisees to get a true insight into what the business is like. Be prepared to work harder than ever before, but it’s the most rewarding thing you’ll ever do. “If you do something you love, it doesn’t feel like work and you will never dread a Monday on a Sunday evening ever again.”

WHAT-FRANCHISE.COM 61 INTERVIEWS

Jim Humphrey ECOCLEEN

“It’s about taking a calculated gamble”

There wasn’t one single reason “I also considered what I was Jim has some wise words for why Jim Humphrey left Devon good at in terms of interpersonal prospective franchisees: “Do & Cornwall Police to become skills, resource planning and issue your background checks because a franchisee with commercial resolution and there seemed to be due diligence is crucial. There are cleaning specialist Ecocleen. a good fit.” many questions to ask yourself, “Partly, I had reached a point Jim bought Ecocleen’s Exeter including what do you want to be in my career where the policing franchise in August 2016, which involved in, what are you going to I enjoyed and job I wanted no later become the south west region bring to the franchise and what longer existed,” He explains. “I covering Devon and Cornwall. Since might you need to learn? was reluctant to accept a role that then it’s expanded by 600 per cent “By understanding your own did not interest me and at the and is now a multi-million pound strengths and weaknesses, you same time I was realising I was turnover enterprise. can decide if you’re the right fit for always going to be a small cog in The business started off with one a franchise, but equally important, a big machine.” manager. Now it has six, who are you need to establish if culturally the Jim’s lack of business experience responsible for coordinating a team franchise is aligned with your own led him to investigate franchising as of over 15 mobile supervisors and way of thinking. a means of becoming his own boss. almost 200 cleaners. “It’s about taking a calculated “When you’re starting out, a “When it’s your own business, gamble, because you can never franchise offers a lot in terms of it’s on you to make it a success,” know what’s around the corner. added support and expertise, Jim says. “There’s always a risk that All you can do is be prepared, so which puts you at an advantage something will not work out as you can mitigate the risk as much over someone who is setting hoped, but for me it has been about as possible and ensure you’re best up on their own from scratch,” having the work ethic to make the placed to succeed.” he says. “The safety net was business as successful as possible. appealing, giving me the time to “I’ve found that a lot of what I learn about running a business did as a police sergeant - the self and the sector I was entering. governance, communicating well, “I looked around for sectors reacting quickly to issues and that would not require a lot of picking the right team - has proved experience or qualifications and the invaluable in my current role. cleaning industry kept coming up “They say the best leaders as being a resilient sector in good surround themselves with people times and bad, something that has who are better at a job than they proven to be correct during the past are, so this is the approach I’ve tried few months. to take over the past four years.”

62 WHAT FRANCHISE | ISSUE 16.2 WHAT FRANCHISE 16_2 master_WHAT FRANCHISE 14/07/2020 14:23 Page 63 WHAT FRANCHISE 16_2 master_WHAT FRANCHISE 16/07/2020 11:48 Page 64 OPINION

In business with the best If lockdown has given you time to explore franchising, here are five further points to consider before taking the plunge

WORDS BY CATHRYN HAYES

t the time of writing, the You may well be one of those capital, so it’s even more Bank of England has people who doesn’t want to go important to ensure you have announced a new £100 back to your previous life of enough funding at the outset. A billion stimulus package commuting, long hours and stress, • Don’t be taken in by overoptimistic for the UK economy, amid fears but instead want to be your own claims of ‘recession proof’ of a surge in unemployment once boss. Franchising can be the ideal franchises. However, some the government’s furlough scheme way to reduce the risks when going businesses are dependent THE AUTHOR comes to an end this autumn. it alone. on consumers having lots of Cathryn Hayes is UK GDP fell sharply in April and discretionary cash to spend. These franchise director although the full impact of COVID-19 Before you decide franchises could be hardest hit in at Revive! Auto on the UK economy is not yet clear, an economic downturn. Innovations Here are five points to consider there will be job losses and some • Ask franchisors how they have before deciding what franchise to companies will not survive. supported their franchisees invest in: during the COVID-19 crisis. • Do you want to work from home Many businesses had to shut Business ownership and reduce the amount of their doors for a period of time, The global pandemic has impacted travelling you have to do? Or have but the franchisors that have millions of people across the world. the weeks you spent in lockdown a strong focus on supporting But it has also given many the time meant you’re looking for a their franchisees will have kept to think about how they want to premises-based or van-based communicating regularly, helped spend the rest of their working business just to get out of the to keep spirits up, supported with lives. The thought of being able to house? Costs vary widely, so look training, reduced or paused fees and take control of your own destiny by for something within your range. charges and assisted with furlough building your own business is more • How much capital have you got processes for the franchisees’ staff attractive than ever. available? Starting a business where appropriate. in a recession can mean a new • Doing your research is key, even venture takes longer to reach more so in these challenging break-even and may economic times. There’s plenty need higher levels of advice and guidance available. of working Your first port of call should be the British Franchise Association’s Prospect Franchisee Certificate, which is a free online course. Fully committed Most important of all is to find a franchise you’re excited to take on, as you will need to be fully committed to the new business. “Doing your research is You’ll need a tenacious and key, even more so in these determined approach to challenging economic times” succeed, regardless of the economic circumstances.

65 WHAT FRANCHISE | ISSUE 16.2 BEHIND THE BRAND: PARTNER CONTENT

AT A GLANCE WILKINS CHIMNEY SWEEP

Established: 2011 (as franchise) Taylor made Number of franchised outlets: 15 franchisees over 18 territories Location of units: England and Wales Investment range: for success £13,100 (plus VAT) Minimum required capital: £0 (zero) Contact: These four franchise brands have ambitious [email protected] franchisechimneysweep.co.uk expansion plans

aylor Made Franchising, on the road every day, doing the franchisee purchasing a PVC Vendo owned by Darren job, working in all weathers, then business, and we hope to see more T Taylor, comprises coming back to do the paperwork of this in the future.” four franchises: and book appointments. I know the Commenting on the outlook Stumpbusters, Wilkins Chimney support I needed and the issues for businesses within the group Sweep, PVC Vendo and Traas Pest I came across and I can and do following the COVID-19 pandemic, Control. translate that into effective support Darren says: “Like all businesses, A former franchisee himself, for all our franchisees. we’ve felt the effects of COVID, but Darren has ambitious plans and “Since launching Taylor Made we are very optimistic about the is hoping to add more franchise Franchising, I’ve not only spent time future for all our brands. operations to the group over the creating state-of-the-art digital “The government is determined next 12 months. support for our franchisees to make to get this country back on its feet He says: “I bought my first their working lives easier, I’ve also financially and two of our franchises Stumpbusters franchise in 2006, so built a strong management team of are perfectly placed to take have the ability to put myself in a experienced colleagues from within advantage of that. franchisee’s shoes every time. each franchise sector. “Builders will need land cleared “I know the reality of being out “When you put all that experience to build new houses and companies together with four successful, will need to get their lorries back “We have a very strong British Franchise Association out on the roads to deliver their affiliated franchises to choose from, goods as restaurants, hotels and the offering for someone I’d like to think we have a very leisure industry return to normal. strong offering for someone looking “COVID shouldn’t have too much looking to buy a franchise to buy a franchise in the UK today. effect on Wilkins Chimney Sweep, “We’ve recently had our first as it is a relatively low cost safety in the UK” cross-franchise purchase, a Wilkins service. “Many insurance companies won’t pay out on damage claims caused by a chimney fire, unless the home or business owner can provide a certificate of sweeping that is less than 12 months old, so as always we’re in a great position to respond to our client’s needs.”

WILKINS CHIMNEY SWEEP With roots that go back to 1895, Wilkins has taken the ancient art of chimney sweeping and turned it into a 21st century business, using the latest software to help franchisees with bookings, certificates of sweeping and payments, leaving them to roll up their sleeves and get sweeping. The franchise is managed by an ex-Wilkins franchisee with seven years of sweeping experience himself - crucial in those early days. If you’re physically fit, want to

66 WHAT FRANCHISE | ISSUE 16.2 Behind the Brand - Taylor Made Franchising

AT A GLANCE AT A GLANCE AT A GLANCE TRAAS PEST STUMPBUSTERS PVC VENDO CONTROL Established: Established: Established: 1994 1989 20 years Number of franchised outlets: Number of franchised outlets: Number of franchised outlets: 30 franchisees over 41 areas 33 8 across the Benelux region and UK Location of units: Location of units: Location of units: England, Wales, Scotland and Holland England and Wales Holland, Belgium, Germany and UK Investment range: Investment range: Investment range: £29,000 (plus VAT) £18,000 (plus VAT) £35,000 (plus VAT) Minimum required capital: Minimum required capital: Minimum required capital: £8,700 (plus VAT) £5,000 (plus VAT) £10,500 (plus VAT) Contact: Contact: Contact: [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] stumpbusters.co.uk pvcvendo.com traas-pestcontrol.co.uk

delivery vehicles - PVC Vendo franchisees clean them all. Having learnt the ropes themselves, franchisees will oversee the work of their mobile fleet washing teams, who will normally be working out of hours, ie weekends and evenings, when the vehicles are off the road. With an experienced management team and state-of- the-art software that marks a job as done, emails the client, sends the invoice and factors the payment, this would suit a franchisee who would eventually like to run the business as a management franchise.

TRAAS PEST CONTROL Traas Pest Control provides a build a profitable business, like PVC VENDO commercial and domestic pest the thought of keeping people safe PVC Vendo (Professional Vehicle control service. in their homes and don’t mind Cleaning) is a commercial vehicle Based on a Dutch model, with getting a bit sooty, then a Wilkins cleaning franchise. all training done in Holland, the Chimney Sweep franchise could With national contracts team have more than 20 years of be for you. already in place, franchisees experience in pest prevention and Wilkins is currently offering a ‘no clean fleet vehicles from some control. money down’ offer on its franchise. of the biggest brands seen on Franchisees will be trained to use Britain’s roads today. From the latest methods, including using a STUMPBUSTERS refrigerated vehicles to fuel mobile and online reporting system, Stumpbusters franchisees remove tankers, curtain-sided brewery to resolve a client’s vermin related tree stumps from a variety of vans to parcel collection and problems quickly and effectively. commercial and domestic settings. From clearing a site for a national house builder to accessing a town centre residential garden using the company’s specialist narrow access equipment, Stumpbusters franchisees remove them all. Franchisees need to be more commercially than mechanically minded, although a decent understanding of the workings of machinery would be useful. Franchisees need to like working outdoors in all weathers and have a desire to own and grow their own successful business, with great support from a highly experienced franchisor.

WHAT-FRANCHISE.COM 67 BEHIND THE BRAND: PARTNER CONTENT Behind the Brand - Hitachi Capital Franchise Finance

AT A GLANCE Predict the HITACHI CAPITAL FRANCHISE FINANCE future For more information call 01844 355575 or email [email protected] hitachicapital.co.uk/franchise-finance

Hitachi Capital Franchise Finance explains the creditors and debtors and it’s important to maintain a healthy importance of creating an effective cash flow forecast balance between the two. for your business If you get paid late by a customer, you have to settle an invoice earlier than you expected or the business owner doesn’t plan properly and takes too much money out of it, your business may become financially vulnerable. Low cash levels means extra pressure for you to deal with. It takes away some of your freedom to make choices about how the business grows or runs. The answer to this problem is to project your cash flow and try to predict any action that’s needed to prevent that from happening. This is called cash flow forecasting and this is the simplest way to set up a 13-week cash flow forecast:

HOW TO SET UP THE SIMPLEST CASH FLOW FORECAST You’ll need to reconcile what’s coming in and going out regularly. Generally, if you’re seeking funding, cash flow forecasts are produced over 12 months. However, many small business helps you to make better decisions good cash flow forecast is owners find it’s beneficial to about funding and how to grow your a valuable tool. But how do update their cash flow on a business responsibly. It’s essential you plan ahead if you’re just weekly basis over a 13-week A information if you’re hoping to starting out or a new business period. 13 weeks is just over a owner? And how do you create a cash flow expand your franchise operation to quarter of a season in calendar forecast that’s useful? multiple sites, buy more stock or terms. It’s also the usual length Here, we’ll explain how to create a cash take on extra staff. of time used by accountants, flow forecast that could help take the A good cash flow forecast helps investors and lenders to assess pressure off your small business in the you to understand if you’ve got if a business has a positive short term and make it easier to grow in enough money coming in to cover outlook for its cash flow. the long term. all your overheads and pay staff and You may be surprised by how suppliers. If you don’t have enough far forward you can project your “You’ll need to reconcile cash coming in, you can’t pay your income, particularly if you’ve bills on time. This affects your already started issuing invoices. what’s coming in and going credit ratings and, ultimately, could But you’ll also see very quickly how lead to the end of your business. useful a cash flow forecast is for out regularly” monitoring who you’re expecting WHY IS A CASH FLOW to make payments and what the WHY DO YOU NEED TO FORECAST SO CRITICAL? impact might be if those payments CREATE A CASH FLOW Everyone’s in a different situation. are delayed. FORECAST? However, every business is Try it for yourself - manage your Understanding your future cash position dependent on the activity of its business the right way.

68 WHAT FRANCHISE | ISSUE 16.2 BEHIND THE BRAND: PARTNER CONTENT Behind the Brand - Ableworld Behind the Brand - Ableworld

AT A GLANCE ABLEWORLD

Mobility Established: 2001 Number of franchised outlets: 35 Location of units: retailer nationwide Investment range: £75,000-£80,000 Minimum required capital: £30,000 offers ethical Contact: [email protected]. 01270 613599 ableworld.co.uk

alternative scooters, stairlifts, adjustable beds, wheelchairs and home aids becoming essential purchases for many people. With Ableworld, you can build a vital local business In addition, since many people in this age group have generous in a sector that’s flourishing pensions and significant property equity, they have the resources to purchase this much needed ith 34 stores, Ableworld is GAP IN THE MARKET equipment. the UK’s largest mobility Founded in 2000 by managing retailer and is at the W director Mike Williams, Ableworld INCOME STREAMS forefront of one of the was launched after three years of Ableworld’s mission is to help these fastest growing markets in retail. research, following the difficulties customers live more comfortable Its franchise owners are local Mike experienced when shopping for and active lives as they get older, so entrepreneurs who want to combine mobility aids for an elderly relative. the franchise model provides two building a prosperous, long-term The research showed the general complementary income streams: business with providing a valuable perception of the mobility trade was service to their own communities. one of target driven, emotionally • The retail outlet. A mobility They employ local people to detached retailers who would superstore that sells a advise customers on the products pressure sell to the elderly and comprehensive range of products that can best help them live vulnerable, often in their homes. to help the elderly and disabled in independently in their homes and Mike was determined to use his their homes and outdoors. offer in-house product training own background in retail to make a • The stairlift business, which and maintenance as part of their change, so that his local community using only high quality branded aftersales care commitment. would have an ethical, professional equipment provides homeowners alternative to these types of sellers. with a variety of life changing The first store was a success and “Hard-working franchisees options. Mike knew franchising was the can build a £2 million-plus perfect path to fulfilling his ambition Ableworld’s proven franchise of having local Ableworld stores open model means hard-working turnover business” all over the country. franchisees can build a £2 million-plus turnover business SIZE OF THE with full training and ongoing SECTOR support from the market leader. There are currently 15.3 No previous experience of the million people aged over mobility industry is needed, as 60 in the UK and the the company has a comprehensive government predicts training programme. Successful that in just over 10 years’ franchisees combine a desire to time nearly 25 per cent help others with their personal of the population will be skills and the proven Ableworld over 65. franchise system. Valued at around £1.5 Ableworld is proud to have been billion annually, the voted Dealer of the Year UK at the mobility sector is set to 2019 Access & Mobility Professional expand dramatically over Awards for its continued dedication the next few years, with to helping our ageing population products such as mobility and people living with disabilities.

WHAT-FRANCHISE.COM 69 INSIGHT

An option to suit everyone

As well as a choice of hundreds of franchises operating in numerous sectors, investors can select from six different formats. Here’s a concise guide to each one

WORDS BY KATRINA LEAF

s the UK government The business format individual, corporation, partnership looks towards franchise or limited liability partnership. businesses to You may also see this described To buy a franchise resale, you A spark an economic 1 would need to enter an agreement as a second generation franchise. recovery, franchises will have a Franchises of this type have two to purchase the business. This is key part to play. things at their core: a franchisee usually a share purchase agreement Figures out at the end of 2018 runs the business using the or an asset purchase agreement. THE AUTHOR showed how as a business model franchisor’s trade name or A franchise resale is particularly Katrina Leaf is a franchising is thriving, generating trademark and under this format attractive to would-be paralegal at Harper £17.2 billion for the UK economy franchisees who want to avoid James Solicitors the franchisor must be able to hold and employing 710,000 people. influence and control over how the the start-up stage of a business, The statistics are significant for franchisee operates their business. instead preferring to buy an Scotland, with the British Franchise A business format franchise is enterprise that is already Association forecasting that the popular because it allows people to established and has a base of Scottish sector will be worth £1 buy a business with an established regular clients. billion this year. track record. Plus it makes it It means that once An industry survey by the easier to trade and, hopefully, you’ve signed the bfa and NatWest showed around make a profit. agreement, you 90 per cent of franchisees who will potentially own and operate their business The master be running a using the brand, systems and franchise profit making support of a larger company The difference between a business 2 from day have reported profitability business format franchise and annually for over 20 years running. a master franchise is that the one. franchisor grants a franchisee the right to sub-franchise within a The “A business format chosen trading territory. buy Master franchising is a great 4 to let franchise is popular opportunity for those looking to franchise develop a network in one This is a specific type of because it allows people particular region. franchise in the property But bear one thing in mind: when market. to buy a business with an a master franchisee sub-franchises, When you execute this kind the master franchise agreement of deal, you will be purchasing a established track record” requires the master franchisee letting agency where profits are to accept only the highest quality made through a commission on franchisees. the sale of a property. This Many of us encounter franchises This requirement is supported process is the same as buying a on a daily basis. Some of them by the necessity to maintain franchise from a franchisor, so are the most high profile of global high standards in relation to all you would need to enter a brands, but despite this many obligations under the franchise franchise agreement, in addition people are unaware of the variety agreement with the franchisor. to obtaining the relevant licences of different franchises that exist. required by law. Here’s all you need to know A franchise resale about the six different options This takes place when The franchise available to those looking to a franchisee sells their buyout 3 This option does launch their own franchise: franchise business to another 5

70 WHAT FRANCHISE | ISSUE 15.516.2 what it says on the tin. The pilot franchise run pilot operations are known as In a deal of this kind, a franchisee A pilot franchise is pilot franchisees and will enable the buys out the franchise. It means the established when a company franchisor to learn about the strengths franchisee will take ownership of 6 and weaknesses of the business intends to franchise its business the entire franchise network. This concept, but before launching it format in different regions and market includes any franchisees existing wants to test the format, idea and conditions. under franchise agreements with systems to ensure it will work. This means the business will be the franchisor. Individuals who thoroughly tested and more likely to Completing a franchise buyout be successful. A pilot franchise usually means you have total control, but only operates for a year or two. it is worth noting that buying out a franchise is more expensive than buying an individual franchise, because the franchisor is selling complete ownership of its business.

WHAT-FRANCHISE.COM 71 BEHIND THE BRAND: PARTNER CONTENT

AT A GLANCE CAFE2U Keeping Established: 2004 Number of franchised outlets: 90-plus Location of units: nationwide franchising Investment range: as low as £15,000 (subject to status) Minimum required capital: £10,000 (subject to status) Contact: Teresa Fowler in mind cafe2u.co.uk

Cafe2U’s chief concern is the happiness and “Now more well-being of its franchisees, according to the than ever, it’s company’s Sam Parish important that as a business we ith Mental Health From franchisors to franchisees, Awareness Week taking employees to customers, ensuring look to minimise place in May, amidst a the support is in place to help W should it be required is a great global pandemic full of our franchisees’ worry and uncertainty, it feels like place to start. the perfect opportunity for us at anxieties” Cafe2U to assess how we are able to WORKPLACE ISSUES support our franchisees and ensure A recent study by mental health avoid work when asked how we’re putting their well-being at the charity Mind highlighted a number workplace stress had affected centre of everything we do. of issues relating to mental health them. As we all know, anyone can in the workplace: • 14 per cent agreed that they suffer with mental health - now had resigned and 42 per cent more than ever - and the sad truth • 21 per cent of respondents agreed had considered resigning when is that nobody is immune from it. that they had called in sick to asked how workplace stress had affected them. • 30 per cent of staff disagreed with the statement: ‘I would feel able to talk openly with my line manager if I was feeling stressed.’ • 56 per cent of employers said they would like to do more to improve staff well-being, but don’t feel they have the right training or guidance.

REMOVING THE STRAINS AND STRESSES Franchisees, like any other business owner, can feel a plethora of strains and stresses throughout both their working and personal life. However, unlike other business owners, being a franchisee gives you the support of the franchisor and at Cafe2U we’re confident our model removes as much of these issues as possible. The old adage of a ‘successful franchisee is a happy franchisee’ is often true. However, happiness shouldn’t just be measured by business success alone. While the two often do go hand in hand, if a franchisee is unhappy a

72 WHAT FRANCHISE | ISSUE 16.2 Behind the Brand - XxxxxxxxxxxCafe2U WHAT-FRANCHISE.COM 73 WHAT-FRANCHISE.COM

We will then use this data will then use this data We it’s than ever, more Now and safe Ensuring they’re WELL-BEING SURVEY franchisees’ UK, our Cafe2U At is wellness happiness and and in the coming paramount will be sending out we months an independent and anonymous franchise to all our survey general looking at their partners - both well-being and mental network within the franchise lives. personal and in their ongoing shape our to further strategy engagement franchisee continue to be an we and ensure determined franchisor, inclusive the for standards to set new whole. as a industry important that as a business look to minimise our we anxieties, franchisees’ concerns and their addressing to safely helping them react changing landscape of the ever legislation and regulations. operations in their comfortable continue to they will ensure the award customers their offer winning service and coffee Cafe2U that has helped make one mobile number the UK’s franchise. coffee According to a Cascade HR to a Cascade HR According franchisor- your sure Making can help our And coffee the by undertaken In a study and being comfortable to talk about to talk about and being comfortable and concerns. feelings their cent of people 77 per study, the support of an effective believe part in the a huge plays employer levels stress of their management Also, according and happiness. Foundation Health to the Mental at work well-being addressing as much by productivity increases cent. as 12 per is such that relationship franchisee can happen these conversations is something that and freely easily day needs to be implemented from cycle. life one of the franchise has been too. Caffeine customers effect a positive to have proven on mental health, with women cups of more or that drink two to suffer less likely a day coffee depression. from two consuming women BBC, cups of caffeinated to three less cent had 15 per daily coffee those while risk of depression, more cups or consuming four risk cent lower had a 20 per daily consuming one cup women than less a day. or This said, dealing with such with such This said, dealing Therefore, it is our responsibility responsibility it is our Therefore, To best achieve this, we keep keep we this, best achieve To with our contact in regular be that Whether franchisees. meetings face-to-face through franchise them and their between visits managers, development head office team, wider the from we conferences, or webinars that open and clear believe strongly communication channels can only comfortable feel help franchisees us allowing while in talking to us, issues to spot any the opportunity become a problem. they before issues as mental personal is a two- well-being health and on relies It conversation. way being open and franchisees the franchisor towards receptive REGULAR CONTACT successful business can quickly successful business can quickly start to deteriorate. to look beyond as a franchisor deeper data and delve performance on a personal, franchisees with our our believe We human level. more as the as strong business is only within it and ensuring they people in their and comfortable happy are strengthens only life day-to-day success. our BEHIND THE BRAND: PARTNER CONTENT

AT A GLANCE LOGISCOOL Established: 2014 Number of franchised outlets: Innovative 100 Location of units: 15 countries on three continents Investment range: from £30,000 education Minimum required capital: price on application Contact: [email protected]. +36 30 448 2082. [email protected] provider logiscool.com Do you want to join an innovative and recession proof franchise system with real social impact? Contact Logiscool to start your own coding education business for kids and teens. Logiscool is the best choice to prepare your child for

success in the digital future important knowledge of the future. “Kids grow up with gadgets in their hands and they need to learn how How old are you?” more than three years. computers think, they need to become “12.” His mother, Eva, agrees that: the creators of technology, rather than H “What are you doing right now?” “Logiscool is a friendly, innovative being passive users. We help tens of “I’m just programming my 43rd education centre where kids can learn thousands of kids and teens to be computer game.” a lot of things that will be essential for more successful in the digital future.” “Wow, isn’t that difficult to do?” their adulthood.” Kids in Logiscool learn to code “When I started the Logiscool courses, I had by building computer games. This no idea how easy and fun coding can be!” IMPORTANT KNOWLEDGE hands-on education gives them These are the answers of David, who has These days, the media is full of articles skills they don’t get in regular been attending Logiscool coding courses for about the digital future. It’s agreed schools. Besides mastering the main that there will be more AI, more robots principles of computer coding, they and the workplace of tomorrow will be also learn important skills such as “They offer just the right full of jobs that don’t exist yet. logical, algorithmic thinking; problem combination of what Dr Anita Breuer, co-founder and solving; tolerance of failures; and CEO of Logiscool, says: “Back in 2014 understanding complex maths when Logiscool was launched, we concepts. a franchisee needs for were among the first to realise that success” very soon coding would be the most UNIQUE PLATFORM Having been a first mover in the industry, Logiscool became not only a global expert in coding education based on the huge and valuable experience it has, but the company also developed the best programming education platform available to date. Gyula Csitari, co-founder and strategy director of Logiscool, says: “There are free coding education platforms out there. We used these in the beginning, but very soon realised their disadvantages, so we went on, actually rather far. “We have developed a unique platform that is not meant for learning, but for teaching. A platform that is not too complex for younger ones and not boring for the older ones. Our platform is able to continuously adapt to the age and skill level of the children, so it maximises the level of satisfaction - our most important key performance indicator.” Anita adds: “Children are always

74 WHAT FRANCHISE | ISSUE 16.2 Behind the Brand - Logiscool

honest when they express their months was negligible. five locations by the end of 2020. opinion, so for us it’s an absolute must “In this period we have also For everybody that is considering that they come out from each and found a franchise partner to becoming a partner, I would say yes, every lesson with a big smile. That’s open a new unit, which will be do it!” why most of them come back year the 100th worldwide. I’m very As Gyula Csitari summarised: after year to our popular afterschool satisfied - this really is a recession “We are the global experts, with courses and vacation camps.” proof business.” the longest experience, of coding Zsolt Vermes, a Logiscool franchise Michaela is not the only one who education for kids and teens. We partner since 2015, says: “I had my is proud of the Logiscool franchise. offer a great franchise business career in a multinational company Dana Banica, Logiscool master with real social impact. It’s the and I’ve never thought about having a partner for Romania, says: “I took best investment for parents and business of my own. the Logiscool master licence in 2018 franchise partners. And both “Then I met Logiscool and realised and now have almost 30 successful parents and partners agree: we I can fully identify not only with their franchise partners in my network. change lives!” mission, but also with the whole Some of them are opening their concept and business model. This was second or even third units. By definitively the best decision of my life. the end of 2020, there will be 50 “They offer just the right Logiscool units in Romania. combination of what a franchisee “I’m extremely happy that needs for success: a best-in-the-world my initial investment has fully education platform, nearly 1,000 returned much earlier than lessons of great curriculum and a planned. Besides the unique proven methodology based on years of education content and great experience and outstanding support.” support, I also get their own complex franchise management GLOBAL INTEREST system from Logiscool HQ that The global interest in the Logiscool makes operation easy and helps franchise system is proof of its initiate a new partner in a very quality and it’s resulted in a fast short time. I have the feeling that growing network: the brand is I receive more and more value present in 15 countries on three each day.” continents, from Mexico to Europe, Iva Yankova, Logiscool master Taiwan and India. partner for Bulgaria, says: “We’ve The huge international been master partners since the experience of the Logiscool team summer of 2019 and we opened our is of great value for future master school in September 2019, so we partners and very soon the 100th haven’t been part of the Logiscool Logiscool unit will open in Belgium. family for very long, but it definitely Michaela Sicoe, Logiscool master feels like a family. partner for Belgium, says: “Despite “We are very happy that we the COVID-19 pandemic, our unit already have our first franchise is sky-rocketing with 250-plus partners on board in Bulgaria and students and due to our new service will be opening schools at new the Logiscool LIVE! online courses locations this summer and during the churn rate in the past few September, so plan to have at least

WHAT-FRANCHISE.COM 75 Ask The EXPERTS Our panel of industry specialists answer your franchise questions HOW HAVE FRANCHISORS BEEN HELPING Q FRANCHISEES DURING THE LOCKDOWN IN THE UK?

ALAN WILKINSON WRITES: franchisees on a far more frequent The COVID-19 pandemic has caused basis than face-to-face and telephone franchisors just as many challenges contact was happening pre-lockdown. as it has every other business. As with Often franchisors have had to the economy in general, the impact has find alternative ways of working, varied according to the sector in which such as online tuition for children you operate. instead of face to face. Franchisors Franchisors have had to find new have had to adapt their methodology, ways of working and communicating often involving amending operating with their franchise network. We’ve procedures and manuals, while seen that most good franchisors have ensuring that nothing they’re doing increased their levels of support and breached their franchise agreement. communication with franchisees. Where franchises have been Not surprisingly, video allowed to trade, new systems conferencing saw a massive increase for social distancing and hygiene since the start of lockdown. We’ve have been implemented and seen examples of weekly team shared with the network and as meetings on Zoom or GoToMeeting more businesses reopen this will and one-to-one video calls with continue to be the case.

ALAN WILKINSON is head of franchise development at The Franchising Centre and has been in franchising for over 24 years.

WILL A FRANCHISOR HELP ME GET THE Q BEST PRICE FOR MY FRANCHISE WHEN THE TIME COMES TO SELL?

JOHN PRATT WRITES: Of course, franchisors want existing While franchisors have to do everything franchisees to reap the rewards of possible to ensure their franchisees’ building their business, but their businesses are profitable, which will primary concern is the ongoing make them attractive to purchase, profitability of the business under the it’s not part of the franchisor’s role new owner. to negotiate a favourable price for an Indeed, franchisors sometimes outgoing franchisee. The reason for this ensure that franchise agreements is simple. contain provisions to the effect that A franchisor’s commercial interest they can discuss the purchase price lies in ensuring an incoming franchisee payable by an incoming franchisee pays as little as possible for the to ensure they don’t pay too much. franchise, because otherwise it may A small number of franchisors go be burdened with high debts that even further and set a formula for would need to be paid off and would the calculation of the sale price of a potentially reduce the profitability of franchise to ensure a relatively low the franchise. payment is made for the business.

JOHN PRATT is senior partner at specialist franchise firm Hamilton Pratt and has advised franchisors for over 25 years.

76 WHAT FRANCHISE | ISSUE 16.2 WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF BUYING Q A ‘PILOT’ FRANCHISE?

LOUISE HARRIS WRITES: A pilot franchisee will typically A business with a franchiseable not pay a full - or any - franchise fee, set-up has several routes to market. although they will probably still have The most common is to test or ‘pilot’ associated business costs such as the business model. The parent premises, vehicles, equipment and business will form the basis of the marketing. They may also receive operating standards, including reduced management service fees or operations, customer services, sales royalties and other benefits, which can and marketing processes, but the make it a very attractive option for a pilot franchisee will stress test those more entrepreneurial franchisee. processes in a new environment. The pilot franchisee will not follow a The pilot is formed to test proof refined, structured model - which can of concept and enable the business be a challenge - but they can be part of to resolve teething problems before developing the franchise offering and launching fully to the franchise therefore part of the greater success. market. The pilot franchise’s They will also be able to shape the performance will also form the future franchise model based on their basis of the financial and business feedback and performance. modelling for future franchisees.

LOUISE HARRIS is an experienced franchisor, having built and sold an award winning franchise. She is now head of strategic partnerships at easyStorage.

DO FRANCHISORS GUARANTEE A CERTAIN Q LEVEL OF BUSINESS FOR THEIR FRANCHISEES?

SHELLEY NADLER WRITES: the principles member franchisors Very few franchisors will be should follow when presenting them to prepared to give guarantees of prospective franchisees. what financial performance will be Franchisors must state the basis achieved in a franchise. on which the figures were obtained. A franchisor should be prepared For example, they should explain if to disclose actual figures that have financial projections are based on been achieved in its operations or what the franchisor or its franchisees by franchisees, but no franchisee have achieved in practice or are should rely on any financial illustrations of profit performance projections as being a guarantee that can be expected if certain that they will be achieved. turnover levels are achieved, which There can be many reasons why should be the same as or no better they’re not achieved, including market than those achieved by the franchisor trends and economic factors, as well or on average by its franchisees. as the franchisee’s own performance Prospective franchisees can always capability and deficiencies. take advice from an accountant in The British Franchise Association’s relation to the financial information code of ethics contains guidance presented to them by a franchisor. on financial projections, setting out

SHELLEY NADLER is a legal director in Bird & Bird’s international franchising team and has many years’ experience of advising on all aspects of franchising.

Got a question about franchising? Email [email protected] or check out the frequently asked questions section at what-franchise.com

WHAT-FRANCHISE.COM 77 SMALL BUSINESS WORKSHOP WITH ANGIE COATES What Franchise’s resident business agony aunt Angie Coates, founder and CEO of Monkey Music, answers your business and entrepreneurial conundrums

I’VE BEEN AN EMPLOYEE FOR 20 you through, then as the business becomes approaches other businesses are using to YEARS. HOW DO I KNOW IF I’VE older the fact you’ve already invested so meet a challenge I faced, etc. GOT WHAT IT TAKES TO BE MY much blood, sweat and tears will give you • Prepare some questions in advance. I know OWN BOSS? the sheer bloody mindedness not to fail. Becoming your own boss, especially moving But here’s the thing: being your own my business inside out, but I memorise nine from a secure career, is a huge leap. It’s boss is as rewarding as anything you’ll ever questions in case conversation falters. daunting, but also exciting, liberating and do. While every disappointment is your • Come up with some business related often incredibly rewarding. responsibility, so is every success. The sense questions, such as what do you think Approaching it with your eyes open of personal achievement is unbeatable. It’s about the latest industry development? Or means you’re off to a good start. Do you your decisions and leadership that create what’s the biggest challenge your business have what it takes? As a franchisor and everything. having worked with hundreds of franchisees, The pride and sense of achievement faces currently? I believe two things are fundamental to I get from growing a wonderful head • Have a few social questions and amusing success: hard work and resilience. office team and a fantastic and thriving anecdotes ready, eg: Have you got any However hard you worked in the past, franchise network who provide outstanding holidays planned?; I like your hair/suit/bag. as a business owner you’ll work harder. In service to our customers means that even Where’s it from? the early years, it’s relentless and I’m not during lockdown I have bounced out of bed actually sure it gets easier - it may just be every morning. • World affairs. I’d read up on three issues you become used to it. and prepare a question about each one. You’ll always live and breathe the WHAT’S YOUR BEST PIECE OF business, but initially cash flow means ADVICE FOR SOMEONE WHO’S NOT • Fake it. Pretend to be confident. In time you’re wearing so many hats you simply A NATURAL NETWORKER? you’ll find you actually are. never switch off. Even while you’re Very few people are natural networkers hoovering, you’ll feel an immense sense - some just fake it very well! Here’s the • Ask questions and listen. Studies show of responsibility and have a constant flow process I developed to help me: the more people talk themselves, the more of nagging questions. Am I doing the right interesting they think you are. thing for my brand? Can I afford this? What • Target networking opportunities. Getting happens if I can’t work? What should I do psyched up for an event only to find it a • Follow up. Always follow through on first/ next? What help do I need? waste of time is so frustrating. any actions or promises. And things will go wrong. Apparently, insignificant things take hours you simply • Set targets for each event don’t have and bigger problems feel like a to push myself outside Have a question you wish to ask Angie? kick in the gut. Some things will be outside my comfort zone. Eg, get Email [email protected] your control; other times you’ll curse your the contact details of five Check out Angie on Instagram: poor decisions. prospective customers or @angiecoatesmusic Initially, energy and enthusiasm will carry partners, discover three

78 WHAT FRANCHISE | ISSUE 16.2 BEHIND THE BRAND: PARTNER CONTENT Behind the Brand - TaxAssist Accountants

AT A GLANCE TAXASSIST ACCOUNTANTS “They have Established: 1995 Number of franchised outlets: 224 franchise areas; 382 shops and offices Location of units: been absolutely UK Investment range: £100,000-£150,000 Minimum required capital: £40,000 fantastic” Contact: [email protected] taxassistfranchise.co.uk

TaxAssist Accountants’ support centre has guided “Equally, we receive many franchisee Lloyd Evans through an unprecedented crisis acknowledgements of our posts on social media, which is all due to the Norwich specialists. The never n the most turbulent of times, Accountants during the pandemic ceasing support and guidance has independent business specialist have been well received by franchisees been superb. TaxAssist Accountants has and clients alike. “A third of our new clients I proved to be an essential hub come from referrals and during for local business communities as a result SURREAL SITUATION lockdown we continued to receive recommendations, as well as leads of its unsurpassed levels of support and Lloyd Evans is a TaxAssist provided from the support centre, communication. Accountants franchisee operating which I was able to sign up by using With over 230 franchises across the UK from Kingswinford, Halesowen and our comprehensive software suite. looking after more than 76,000 clients, the Wolverhampton. As with all non- In fact, the whole software package company has seen its services in demand like essential, shop-based businesses, has proved invaluable to me in my never before. Lloyd and his team of eight staff ability to support my practice and The Norwich-based support centre team found themselves having to my clients.” has worked tirelessly to ensure its franchisees temporarily close their shops in have correct and up-to-date information to March due to the COVID-19 pandemic meet its network’s clients’ requests for help. and begin the process of working OPTIMISTIC OUTLOOK Having opened his shops to the The timely advice and online and centralised from home. public in June, Lloyd is confident email campaigns offered by TaxAssist He explains how they coped: his services will continue to be “The whole situation has been so in demand and optimistic about surreal, but the transition from the outlook for the independent “I have sent regular thanks office to remote working thankfully business sector. wasn’t too onerous, as we have been to the Norwich-based team” “Whether a client now chooses using a hosted environment for a to pop into one of our TaxAssist long time now. That made the process Accountants shops or prefers to much easier.” meet online, we can be flexible,” he says. “Our friendly, approachable HELP DURING THE way of working offers something PANDEMIC different to traditional accountants Lloyd is full of praise for the TaxAssist and we’re genuinely interested Accountants support centre team for in helping clients and making all they have done to help him during a tangible difference to their the pandemic. businesses. “I have sent regular thanks to “As a small business ourselves, the Norwich-based team,” he says. we’ve witnessed numerous “They have been absolutely fantastic examples of innovation in the sector during this very testing time and it’s and a desire to shop local and at just these times you realise and support local businesses, which I appreciate the strength of the bond think will hold the sector in good within the TaxAssist family. stead going forward.” “The constant messages we receive If you share a passion to support from clients has been one of thanks local small businesses and have a for the regular updates they receive. business or financial background, This has brought us even closer to our a TaxAssist Accountants franchise clients and supports the huge volume can provide the systems and of telephone calls we’ve made. support you need to be successful.

WHAT-FRANCHISE.COM 79 BEHIND THE BRAND: PARTNER CONTENT Behind the Brand - Home Instead Senior Care

AT A GLANCE HOME INSTEAD Caring is at SENIOR CARE Established: 2005 Number of franchised outlets: the heart of 215 Location of units: UK Investment range: £90,000-£110,000 everything Minimum required capital: £41,000 Contact: Imogen Clarke. 07860 937705 they do homeinstead.co.uk/franchise

“There are high Home Instead Senior Care franchisees improve the lives of our older generation levels of demand for home care ome Instead Senior franchise owners operating in the and franchisees Care is the UK’s most UK and globally over 1,200 across H recommended home care 12 countries providing outstanding enjoy huge growth company, according to the care and outstanding results. most important people: its clients and The Home Instead network is opportunities” their loved ones. This result is based so successful because everyone directly on independent reviews in shares the same ethos and the belief the homecare.co.uk awards. in its vision of ‘changing the face of Instead highly, its network of Specialising in the care of older ageing’ and improving the lives of franchisees does too. The franchise people gives franchisees a clear our older generation. has received many awards and focus. Their unique home care The business model places accolades and has consistently service, which is companionship- franchisees and their teams at achieved five star rating in the based, allows clients to remain living the heart of their local community WorkBuzz annual Franchisee independently in their own homes, as thought leaders and employers Satisfaction survey. where we would all like to be. of choice. They regularly deliver Franchisees rated Home Instead free dementia cafes, workshops on attributes such as the quality A CARING SUCCESS STORY and events. of their new franchisee induction The franchise has over 215 local The passion shown by Home training, the level and quality of Instead business owners and ongoing support provided, their CAREGivers has been widely relationship with the franchise and acknowledged by peers within the whether they would recommend the care sector. Owners are provided Home Instead brand as a franchise with ongoing support from the opportunity to others. 60-strong national office, enabling Home Instead has also been them to use their strong networking named as the winner in the ‘Best and people skills. Franchise Management’ category in With an ageing population, there the Best Franchise Awards. are high levels of demand for home care and franchisees enjoy huge JOIN AN INNOVATIVE growth opportunities. AND PIONEERING FRANCHISE AN ‘OUTSTANDING’ Home Instead is a management REPUTATION franchise, so no care experience Home Instead has over 65 is necessary. But if you’re caring, ‘Outstanding’ ratings from compassionate and have the skills inspections by the Care Quality to be an effective leader, you can Commission (CQC) for the care embrace its exceptional business it provides, more than any other model and make a difference. home care provider, which is There are territories currently something the company is available throughout the UK justifiably proud of. and a small number of resale Picture taken in 2019 Not only do clients rate Home opportunities.

80 WHAT FRANCHISE | ISSUE 16.2 BEHIND THE BRAND: PARTNER CONTENT Behind the Brand - The Runo Group

AT A GLANCE Franchise THE RUNO GROUP

therunogroup.com

professionals for many different reasons, The Runo Group offers a wider range of complementary services. pool their EXPLORE THEIR IDEAS Director Andy Hulbert says: “It’s marvellous to be able to offer people fresh hope at this extremely difficult time. Many who suddenly find expertise themselves out of work may have privately dreamed of having their own business, but it’s only now that they have the chance to explore their ideas further. The Runo Group is a new recruitment, business “At the same time, the current economic climate is creating a raft of brokerage and training provider new and interesting opportunities.” Director Tony Mundella says: “We’re no strangers to the franchise sector ranchise professionals are ready protracted lockdown has also forced and we know of many franchisors who to re-energise a working world families countrywide to take stock and are looking for quality franchisees rocked to its core by coronavirus. look for fresh ways in which they can F who have the necessary energy and Excitingly, they pooled their improve their futures. enthusiasm to drive the growth of expertise and established The Runo Group their brand by investing in their own just weeks before the pandemic hit. Ironically, PORTFOLIO OF BRANDS franchise. That is why franchisee their timing couldn’t have been better for the The Runo Group has a portfolio of recruitment is one of our group’s scores of people now seeking a new challenge. franchise brands - some new, some key services.” Thousands of people have lost their established - seeking committed and Colleague Angela Foreman deals livelihoods or are facing redundancy. The entrepreneurial people to set up their with everything financial, while Emma own businesses under its umbrella. Ozenbrook deals with enquiries from Today, you might be considering potential franchisees. “The current economic ploughing your own furrow and taking Emma happily chats to aspiring steps to become your own boss, while franchisees about the type of climate is creating a raft also feeling uncertain about making franchise they might be interested your move. Reassuringly, The Runo in and sends them brochures packed of new and interesting Group’s directors have the necessary with essential information. When experience to help you achieve your they want to take the next step into opportunities” dream - especially if you would love to franchise ownership, a Runo Group have a business backed by director will provide personal support. a great brand. The Runo Group ESSENTIAL SERVICES - a sister enterprise Other services on offer include to Lincolnshire-based business brokerage, where people Franchise Resales - is can tap into Runo’s expertise to headed by directors Andy help them buy or sell a business, Hulbert, Tony Mundella, which does not necessarily need Julie Taylor and Michael to be a franchise. Bohan. Julie and Michael The group also provides valuable are also directors of training by way of The Institute of Franchise Resales. The Leadership & Management certified group’s other working programmes, which are designed to shareholders are Angela put the polish on franchisors’ and Foreman and Emma franchisees’ skills. Ozenbrook. This professional training is While Franchise an absolute must for new and Resales concentrates on experienced business owners to helping people who may help them drive sales and want to exit and get the best return on their sell their franchises business investment.

WHAT-FRANCHISE.COM 81 ADVICEINSIGHT

How to use digital marketing to get more customers Specialist knowledge can help you achieve more punch for your promotional pound

WORDS BY IAN FRANKLIN

usinessman John Key findings from the Edge browser, which provides a Wanamaker is famously biggest players in the Chrome experience. With people B attributed with the industry being at home more because of quote: “Half the money I Facebook the coronavirus crisis, desktop spend on advertising is wasted; the • Digital attention has never been searches are increasing. trouble is I don’t know which half.” higher. The size of the audience Today there’s no excuse for pool has increased both in terms • Search. Terms are increasing THE AUTHOR wasting half of your money on of users and the amount of with more users online. There’s Ian Franklin is advertising and even less excuse been a rise in research terms for new business time spent on the platform per for not being able to track what future purchases, automotive for development day. We have seen a 75 per cent manager at Push works versus what doesn’t and increase in traffic in some cases. example. In addition, people are Group making the necessary adjustments still booking holidays, but terms to drive more relevant leads to your • Competition. Some advertisers like ‘cancellable’ are increasing. business. are pausing or downscaling Utilising Microsoft also gives The pace of change in advertising budgets, which means there’s you access to prospects via is accelerating. Technology changes more available inventory at a Linkedin, which is perfect for quickly, but organisations typically lower cost measured in cost per business-to-business brands. move slowly, which leaves a gap. click. Businesses that can adapt to • Strategy. We find that too change and provide digital solutions • Engagement. It’s higher than many businesses copy that customers need will succeed. ever before. Your customers Google campaigns, whereas Media consumption is shifting are willing to engage with your for best results campaigns to video. In 2020 we will see users brand, so serve them now and should be built from watch more video online than via a do business later. scratch and optimised for traditional TV. We know that money the Microsoft Advertising follows eyeballs and as more users • Conversions. Some sectors platform. Bing offers consume content in this way they are growing and there’s an marketers the opportunity to will also increase online spending. opportunity to build brand reach a niche audience who are awareness with existing older and wealthier. 71 per cent customers, prospects and of Bing users are 35 and above, “Businesses that can new audiences. while one third have a household income of over £100,000. adapt to change and • Strategy. Understanding who’s on Facebook and what your Google provide digital solutions current audience breakdown • Popular searches. Consumers looks like will be important in have been attempting to stay customers need will determining which Facebook productive and learn new things, marketing strategies you should which has meant searches for succeed” employ and how. Facebook is puzzles, board games and a great place to hold industry staying fit have increased. From recent Google research, we chats or discussions, whether know that there are approximately it’s with a different audience or • Cost per click. There’s 34 million small and medium- your current customers. been a drop in cost per sized enterprises in Europe. 33 click activity as some per cent have no website and 75 Microsoft advertisers scale back. per cent haven’t invested in digital • Desktop searches. Microsoft 50 per cent of ad clicks are marketing as yet. recently launched its new stable, but 25 per cent

82 WHAT FRANCHISE | ISSUE 15.516.2 are experiencing a reduction. time and in a way that enables ads still have low cost per click bids on its customer growth, instead of ad platform and you no longer have to be • YouTube. YouTube Live is growing bombarding them with one on Prime to compete on Amazon. Amazon is in popularity, along with cooking message for a direct sale. easy to set up with professional help. and online learning. A whole new audience is engaging in co- Amazon Twitter activities, not just watching. • Number of staff. Amazon is • Users. Twitter has seen an increase in the planning to hire an additional number of users, as well as the time an • Strategy. While 2019 focused 100,000 staff to cope with average user spends on the platform. on audience targeting through increases in demand. remarketing lists for search ads • Strategy. Twitter is a great marketing and custom affinity audiences, • Conversion rates. These are tool for a number of reasons: it allows 2020 will focus on targeting increasing on Amazon. sharing and promoting of branded content audiences at specific touchpoints quickly to expand reach, allows companies throughout the buying journey. • Strategy. 65 per cent of UK to provide effective customer support Savvy marketers will speak to shoppers start their searches and can be used as a search engine tool their target audience at the right on Amazon, not Google. Amazon for prospects to find and learn about your company.

• Communication. Due to the increase in usage, it’s the perfect time to converse with your followers, share the latest updates about your company and address your audience.

LinkedIn • Users. LinkedIn was already seeing steady growth in overall user engagement, but as with all online platforms usage went through the roof during lockdown. Engagement with COVID-19 content specifically would suggest business leaders are looking for answers and to better understand what’s happening and how they should respond to the pandemic.

• Content. Now is the perfect time to post engaging content and videos. We know that on LinkedIn images garner over six times more engagement than text-only content.

• Targeting. You can get your message in front of the right people when they’re most engaged by targeting them with LinkedIn advertising. LinkedIn data is differentiated because members have professional incentives to keep their profiles accurate and up to date. Franchise businesses can utilise member generated demographic data to reach the right audience, including job title, company, industry, seniority and more.

WHAT-FRANCHISE.COM 83 INSIGHT

Key digital challenges • How to protect franchisee’s paid faced by franchisors accounts from click fraud and limit We have a franchise team within Push ad wastage. and work with many large franchising clients. We’re also a partner for the Boosting your client but cannot update your website. You can British Franchise Association and base use form extensions so that users do not have run joint events at Google with Franchises have typically either even need to visit your website in order its members. engaged with a full service agency to make contact. We see the key digital challenges or done it themselves. We created Adinvestor, which is a way faced by franchisors as: It can be costly to use a full for businesses to access our team of service agency, but the danger highly experienced account managers, • Uncertainty about where to start of doing it yourself is that poor who oversee the management of your when setting up franchisees and keyword selection and incorrect paid ad campaigns, while giving you how to decide on where to invest targeting can occur. Businesses access to our performance measuring marketing budgets. then lose faith in the platform and platform. feel it isn’t right for them. The software allows you and our • A lack of data on which franchisees need more support and which are performing well. “In 2020 we will see users watch

• Attempting to save time and more video online than via a resources, while providing franchisees with transparency traditional TV” when it comes to digital marketing. Google and Microsoft offer BETA team to highlight which locations are versions of their services, which are performing well and those who need • An inability to oversee how released early to partners to test more support. It also provides detailed multiple locations are performing new features and stay ahead of the reporting and visual representation across Google, Microsoft and competition. However, franchises about the health of an account and Facebook and control smaller that do their digital marketing highlights optimisation opportunities, as budgets that need to be spent in-house don’t get initial access to well as giving feedback on competitors. efficiently. such features. Once set up, we give a franchise An example of this is form business access to its own dashboard • How to share reports across the extensions, which are perfect if you to keep an eye on budget pacing, ads, network. need to introduce a new service, keyword performance and more.

84 WHAT FRANCHISE | ISSUE 16.2 BEHIND THE BRAND: PARTNER CONTENT Behind the Brand - Encouraging Women into Franchising

access to a proven business model. Franchises operate in a range of sectors, so you can turn your hobby, passion or interests into a Enter a career. There are many different franchised businesses, from car and van rental operations, to dance schools, home care specialists and logistics operations. The world of franchise industry really does offer something for everyone. With the backing of an experienced franchisor, you can use your skill set to take advantage of opportunities what you know and make it work for you. You might be a trained dancer who’s always wanted to set up your own dance school or you may be good at putting people at Now’s the perfect time to investigate the options ease and want to build a business franchising has to offer, Encouraging Women into which helps others - franchising is the perfect route to help you realise Franchising says your dreams.

TRAINING AND SUPPORT Alternatively, you may not have a background in the industry you want to set up a business in, which is where the franchise model comes into its own. Most franchises don’t expect you to have experience in the industry you’re moving into, which is why they provide comprehensive training programmes and ongoing support to help you grow your own successful business.

“Franchises operate in a range of sectors, so you can turn your hobby, passion or interests into a career”

n March, a report cent were happier than when they released to coincide were working for someone else. THE CHOICE IS YOURS with International The idea of running your own Although we’re currently living I Women’s Day revealed business may both excite and scare through uncertain times, now is an increase in the number you. Franchising offers you a path the time to decide whether you of women starting their own to do something for yourself, while want to return to your working life businesses compared to men having the security and support of as it was before or be happier and last year. an established brand. more fulfilled as the owner of your Analysing over 1.4 million own business. The answer might small businesses within its data, PROVEN BUSINESS help you decide what steps to insurance company Simply MODEL take next. Business discovered a 31 per cent Thinking about starting your own See ewif.org and thebfa.org rise in female-owned businesses. business may be overwhelming to discover the right franchise What’s more, 72 per cent said they or intimidating. However, with opportunity which will give were in their dream job and 60 per franchising you are given exclusive you purpose.

WHAT-FRANCHISE.COM 85 BEHIND THE BRAND: PARTNER CONTENT

AT A GLANCE TRIB3 Opening INTERNATIONAL Established: 2016 Number of franchised outlets: 5 (of 11 outlets) up the Location of all outlets: Sheffield, Leeds, Manchester x 2 (opening Q4 2020 and Q1 2021), Bristol (opening August 2020), Helsinki, Moscow, Madrid: Cuzco, Basilica and Goya (opening August 2020), opportunity Guangzhou Investment level: £100,000 minimum, dependent on location Contact: franchise team. [email protected] Boutique fitness franchise TRIB3 now has two trib3.co.uk/franchise investment options for UK entrepreneurs

he reopening of the UNFORGETTABLE fitness industry in the WORKOUT EXPERIENCE T UK was greeted with TRIB3 is a unique fusion of huge positivity and 45-minute zoned HIIT workouts praise when it was announced in and industrial-luxe design that early July. creates an unforgettable boutique For many it was imperative that workout experience. this sector was allowed to open At TRIB3, customers are as soon as possible, as the advice guaranteed results, burning up throughout the COVID-19 crisis has to 1,000 calories per session. But been that being physically activity they’re also guaranteed to feel right and fighting fit has never been more at home, with social connection important. squarely at the heart of the brand. The team at boutique fitness Ultimately, inclusivity and franchise TRIB3 welcomed the community are some of the news and the opportunity to move organisation’s fundamental values, forward with plans to keep growing so one of the things the TRIB3 its global family and get more team have been working on is people around the world moving. making sure the company’s product

is as accessible as possible for prospective franchisees.

LESS RISK - CONTINUOUS SUPPORT Karl Dietrich, chief development officer at TRIB3, says: “The growth of the fitness sector is hugely important and franchising allows people who are wishing to take control of their personal situation and start their own business to do it with less risk and continuous support throughout the lifetime of their franchise business. “Historically, after challenging financial global conditions, both leisure and franchising experience growth as people look to increase their health and well-being and also to secure their own future income streams via franchising, which is a proven model. “It’s been imperative for us to develop COVID secure processes

86 WHAT FRANCHISE | ISSUE 16.2 Behind the Brand - TRIB3Xxxxxxxxxxx International WHAT-FRANCHISE.COM 87 WHAT-FRANCHISE.COM For prospective franchise franchise prospective For a life to make year your So is 2021 workout experience are always the the always are experience workout same, as this is the thing that drives to come back time and customers time again. can now you this means partners, a minimum TRIB3 for own your own £100,000, of around investment chosen location. your depending on that everyone with a brand change that makes in an industry enjoys, and is worldwide impact a positive important? becoming increasingly and start TRIB3 now not join Why today. future your This means that depending on This means that depending on studio has focused smaller, A

where the store will be located and will be located and the store where to support the the capital available can choose franchisees venture, focused more to open a smaller, with larger studio or workout capital, a amounts of available includes which TRIB3 store, full and full social area an expansive bar. service Mixology in highly itself to be popular shown full a larger, while areas, residential or booms in corporate service store way, Either locations. high footfall TRIB3 studio and the fundamental

Using demographic and and demographic Using

TRIB3’s chief development officer officer development chief TRIB3’s Karl Dietrich: Dietrich: Karl “Historically, “Historically, challenging after globalfinancial conditions, leisure both and franchising experience growth” This has come in the shape of an This has come in the shape of an TRIB3 model. flexible more evolved, delving and by locational analysis franchisees prospective where into the brand to base themselves, want size and a tiered has developed model. investment EVOLVED FRANCHISE FRANCHISE EVOLVED MODEL to run our stores and support our and support our stores to run our focusing while partners, franchise to open up the ways on new people to own more for opportunity TRIB3.” their own ADVICEINSIGHT

4 ways to save your sanity This advice can help new franchisees avoid burnout as they embark on their journey to becoming a successful business owner

WORDS BY DAVID GLOVER

n the wake of the global And 54 per cent of all working COVID-19 emergency days lost due to sickness during and subsequent shift this period were due to these I in workforce dynamics, conditions. 602,000 we will likely see a surge in new Here are four ways new The number of people in the UK who suffered from franchise businesses. franchisees can avoid burnout: work related stress, anxiety With redundancies and economic or depression in 2018-19, THE AUTHOR downturns come opportunities Lean on your according to the Health and David Glover is to explore new business passions franchisor Safety Executive managing director of - and franchising is especially Caremark. He’s also Any new franchisee will need tempting when market conditions 1 the British Franchise to invest time and energy to get Association forum are less stable. The proven business their business off the ground. model, brand strength and practical chair for London and There’ll be a team to recruit, train what help is available. You may even the south east support offered by franchisors have and inspire, a customer base to pick up some tips and techniques seen franchise numbers soar - and build and a raft of new skills to you can use to build your own this trend is set to rise. master. strategies. For those joining the market at But while a business launch this challenging time, the hours will undoubtedly be demanding, Use your support will invariably be long, as investors it shouldn’t be overwhelming. throw themselves into nurturing Remember that one of the great system Going it alone can be their business and getting to advantages of investing in a 2 tough for even the savviest grips with every facet of their franchise is that there is a tried new operation. But how do you and tested model for you to follow. businessperson. Franchising should strike the right balance between Any franchisor worth its salt will offer mentorship, support and the hard graft required to build a provide a great deal of support, opportunities to connect with a thriving business and avoid the including help with securing network of like-minded people. burnout associated with stress and funding, finding a suitable Ask your franchisor what overwork? business location and providing platforms it offers to enable you The World Health Organization comprehensive training. to connect with your peers. You defines burnout as ‘a syndrome Do use the resources and may find that the franchise has an conceptualised as resulting from templates you are given rather intranet or messaging platform chronic workplace stress that has than trying to reinvent the wheel. you can use to network or virtual not been successfully managed’. It is And remember that you’re obliged and face-to-face events to help you characterised by three dimensions:

• Feelings of energy depletion or “Try to set some rules about exhaustion. when you will turn off your • Increased mental distance from one’s job or feelings of negativism phone or laptop” or cynicism related to one’s job. to work within the franchisor’s connect and seek advice. • Reduced professional efficacy. guidelines, so use this to your Tapping into the experience and advantage. expertise of fellow business owners It’s a condition that affects people Don’t forget that many who have been on a similar journey of all ages and in all sectors. In franchisors will offer centralised gives franchisees a sense of security the UK, 602,000 people suffered services such as marketing and PR and being part of something bigger. from work related stress, anxiety to help you spread the word, so get It will also invariably save you an or depression in 2018/19, according to know the suppliers that head inordinate amount of unnecessary to the Health and Safety Executive. office have in place and ask them time and worry too.

88 WHAT FRANCHISE | ISSUE 15.516.2 Delegate at the an overwhelming list of tasks, many laptop, so you can be present right time successful business owners start by during your downtime with During the early days you will asking themselves: is this the best friends and family. 3 use of my time? or: who can do this Business owners who need to understand all elements of the franchise, so invariably the particular task better than I can? put their own well-being at the bottom of the list days will be long until the business Thinking in this way will free you are those most at risk of launches. up to work on the business rather burnout. If it helps, try In the home care sector, where than just in the business and save a to think about treating my business Caremark operates, good deal of stress in the process. yourself with the same on setting up the business compassion you would an our franchisees must hire an Prioritise self care employee. experienced registered manager Our ‘always on’ culture can Finally, remember that if stress make it difficult to switch off, with the industry knowledge they 4 and overwork continue unbated the but it’s vital to take time out of the need to help run the operation. effects of burnout can be profound. business to enjoy some leisure time. Invest your time and energy Business owners’ mental health, in inspiring and training staff, Getting enough sleep, fresh air physical health, relationships and establishing clear and effective and exercise is vital to beat the risk - ultimately - their ability to run a communication and reporting of burnout. If you find it difficult sustainable business are all standards and building a to justify, remember you’ll be a at risk. strong company culture. If you more effective boss if you enjoy a You owe it to your have recruited well, trust in better work-life balance and your staff, your business your employees and avoid the business will be more productive and yourself to take temptation to and sustainable. steps to protect micro manage. Try to set some rules about when yourself against When faced with you will turn off your phone or burnout.

WHAT-FRANCHISE.COM 89 OPINION

Lessons learned from the pandemic It’s been a tough time recently, but franchising continues to thrive for these four reasons

WORDS BY EMILY PRICE

You don’t have to be Customer focus When the going alone in business never fails gets tough, a 1 While many owners are struggling 2 Every challenge presents an 3 franchisor can help to make tough decisions on the opportunity for businesses to step up to keep you going future of their businesses alone, the the plate and wow their customers with Franchisors have assisted with franchising industry looks and feels how they deal with a situation. launching new service propositions, very different. I’ve been overwhelmed at the volume finding new markets and ensuring THE AUTHOR Don’t get me wrong, times are tough of support franchisors have provided to consumers feel confident enough to Emily Price is chief and doors have had to close. However, their franchisees. do business with their franchisees. operating officer at franchise brands and their networks Research and development has the British Franchise The post-pandemic world will Association of franchisees are evolving. Strong been supercharged to find new ways be a very different place and it won’t relationships are forming and a better of operating in a fraction of the time it be a case of returning to the way understanding of each other and wider usually takes to do so. In some cases, of old. Franchisees are in unique business goals are being achieved. there have been complete overhauls of positions in that while they focus We’ve always said that when a operating models to ensure franchisees on their individual aspirations and franchisor-franchisee relationship can continue to trade. plans for the future, their franchisors strikes the right balance, franchising Franchisors have worked with will be investing in the framework thrives. We’re confident that in the franchisees to maintain a strong that will ensure they achieve them. midst of the pandemic common connection with their customers in Evolving business processes and ground has been found and strong order to be ready to serve them once propositions take both time and foundations have been built for the again and there’s been genuine concern financial investment and as benefit of entire networks. for the well-being of franchisees and a franchisee you know your their families to allow for the emotional franchisor will be bearing this pain change curve to happen and for people to sustain the brand value you “There’s no doubt to remain motivated. invested in. This is a unique There’s no doubt franchisors are scenario in business and one franchisors are serving serving their franchisees well in of the main benefits of becoming their franchisees well” these times. a franchisee. Franchisees have the power 4 to impact local communities The coming together of communities, acts of kindness to support those in need and giving time to great causes has been publicised far and wide. Don’t forget that as a franchisee you’ll be a local business owner and have the opportunity to make a difference. For many people, this is what drives them in their business. We have seen the gifting of food boxes, deliveries of emergency supplies, lobbying for local economies and many fundraising initiatives, all supported by the franchisee community. If you want to give back, you could achieve this with your franchise business.

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