the franchise tabloid issue 3

SUCCESS THAT CHANGES LIVES

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Bringing Franchising to the People

CONFUSED?Franchise Advisor Chris Tansley can help you.

REDUNDANCY...The end or the beginning? With so many redundancies and so few jobs, it may be a little hard to see the light...

Page 9

WHAT IS A FRANCHISE?If you’re new to the concept, here is a brief outline of what a franchise business involves...

Page 3

We get right inside one of the UK’s leading franchise operations so you have a clearer understanding...

Page 24

INSIDE INFORMATION

All too often we find ourselves asking quite what job satisfaction we have in our existing jobs. Are we really making a difference? Do I actually have any control over my career? Can I have a successful career and be really fulfilled? Yes.

It is a unique opportunity being able to use your business skills and also change people’s lives and this is something LighterLife can offer. If you are looking to be able to grow our own business that already has a proven track record of success and also bring into play your more subjective and empathetic qualities then being a LighterLife franchisee will provide you with this opportunity. With a network of over 300 weight management counsellors and a business with a 16 year track record of transforming people’s lives through weight loss and weight management support we really are in a unique position in the market place.

LighterLife is an innovative weight loss and weight management company that is founded in passion and belief for improving

Page 20

people’s lives – and you may have seen we have done just that for Pauline Quirke. We are looking to increase our offering throughout the UK and are seeking new counsellors to join us on an exciting and pioneering journey of business growth and development.

If you think you have got what it takes to run your own business, enjoy the heritage of a well established company with big ideas and very successful business and marketing support then look no further. With full training, support and guaranteed profit margins you

can look forward to improving people’s lives and also improving your own.

Contact LighterLife using the below details: Email: [email protected] Telephone: 01279 636 988

Winan

See inside for details...

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Driving Force

After 26 years in the business, Mobile Car Valeting is looking for hardworking individuals to help its brand expand further across the U.K.

It’s always gratifying to see your business grow and develop from its first few steps into the world to a successful, thriving business that is expanding nationwide. Terry Smith is the founder of Mobile Car Valeting (MCV), and he admits that he sees his business as “his baby”. “that’s is why we have very high standards of the franchisees we recruit. It’s still my baby, so I only pick the ones that will be right for the business”.

Mobile Car Valeting does… well, exactly what it says on the tin. If offers a professional self-sufficient valet service, from a wash and leather throughto an individualised treatment of interior and exterior surfaces. MCV now offer specialist paint contaminated removal treatments as well as paintwork and fabric protection services too. MCV franchisees can deliver customers a top-class service to their doors that offers both convenience and very competitive prices.

The business is actually celebrating over 26 years in the industry after its formation in

LIKE FOR LIKE PRICE MATCH GUARANTEE! co.uk

0800 781 7117

1986. Terry started the company from scratch. “at that time there was a real gap in the market” he remembers. “there were then only drive through car washes rather than valeting cars on site at customers own premises- there were very few companies that offered this kind of service to customers”.

As a result, Terry’sCompany proved to be so successful that franchising was the logical step in moving forward and expanding the company. The MCV franchise was launched 7 years ago after the companies franchise consultant (and Business Franchise contributor) Peter Williams looked at the concept and deemed it a viable franchise option.

The company’s franchisees come from a variety of backgrounds.

Airline pilots, postmen, plumbers, sheet metal workers have all joined up. “the people we recruit must be hard-working and good with people” says Terry “ they must be prepared for working in all types of weather, as they will be busy throughout all seasons.”

A Mobile Car Valeting franchise cost £14000 plus VAT (recoverable). This covers the training, corporate work wear, equipment, chemicals, printing, stationary, accounts package, and a deposit for a distinctly liveried van.

MCV are awarding large territories nationwide to individuals who want to expand into a mulitivan operation should they so desire.

A new national accreditation and support organisation for the franchised business sector has been launched in Exeter.

The Approved Franchise Association (AFA) provides the franchise industry in the UK with a quality accreditation process and a platform for discussion and advice underpinned by a commitment to the Code of Ethics for Franchising from the European Franchise Federation.

It aims to promote the benefits of partnerships and franchising with help for people who want to franchise their

business or are looking to join an existing franchise.

The brainchild of Craig Brittain, the former commercial manager of the Royal Household , the AFA provides the Franchise Industry within the United Kingdom with a voluntary, self-regulatory body to serve its members, potential new franchisees and the industry as a whole.

He said: "I am delighted to be part of this new and exciting organisation. The franchise industry has grown significantly over recent years and the introduction of this new association can only be of benefit to this very vibrant sector of the economy.

"We aim to make a difference. Our values & principles ensure our

organisation remains focused and driven by our collective objectives, surrounding the growth, development and awareness of the Franchise Industry within the United Kingdom."

Richard Cobb and Anna Baker from the Business Group at Michelmores provided legal advice to AFA. Richard Cobb said: "It is estimated that there are over 1,000 franchises in the UK and the number is set to increase as this is a tried and tested

way of growing a business or setting out in business for the first time.

"Achieving the right relationship between franchisor and franchisee is critical and the AFA's guiding principles offer the sector a viable alternative association and accreditation system to address the issues involved in a highly professional manner."

Approved Franchise Association Launches

The plan for the future is to be instantly recognisable in every major town in the next 3 to 5 years.

Terry sums up why his franchise is such a popular one “ Very few franchises have

such great repeat business potential, many clients have their vehicle valeted weekly, you need approx. 30 to 40 regular clients and you are generally full and will need to look at further expansion to 2nd and 3rd vans.”

MORE INFO?MORE INFO?Further details can be obtained from the website or by calling Craig Brittain or Richard Cobb.

Further details can be obtained from the website or by calling Craig Brittain or Richard Cobb.Craig: 01392 367 777Richard: 01392 688 688Web: www.theAFA.org.uk

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40,000 copies of The Franchise Tabloid distributed ISSUE NO 3

EDITOR’SNOTE

Fast food and restaurants are not the only examples of franchises, though their widespread success is probably what brings them first to mind. Just about every industry you can think of includes a successful business practice sold as a franchise-from cleaning services to tyres, haircuts and advertising and publishing businesses. There are as many different franchise business systems as there are goods or services that people wish to use.

Buying a franchise business may seem to be a seductive offer that you cannot possibly ignore. On one level that may be true, but the thing about franchise business, no matter how lucratively attractive it seems, is that it is successful only on a case-to-case basis. A franchise business may boom for your neighbour but not exactly fare as well as for you. Despite the fact that a business opportunity such as this is something that stands out considerably in success rate as compared to other business opportunities you may be presented with at this time, you need to evaluate certain things before you dash on your way to becoming a franchisee or franchisor.

If you are interested in engaging in a franchise business, you need to know the

In its most simple definition, a franchise is a business opportunity that allows the franchisee (possibly you) to start your business by legally using someone else’s (the franchisor’s) expertise, ideas, and processes. In some cases, this means also having the right to use the franchisor’s established name and branding, as well as their already-tested business model. In other cases, this means the right to resell (or distribute) a franchisor’s product.

More completely, a franchise is the right to use someone else’s business system. As a franchisee, you purchase this right by means of a franchise fee and in accordance with a contract, called a franchise agreement. In return, the franchisor maintains the business process and you agree to operate your business according to their model.

When you hear the term “franchise”, probably the most familiar example is fast food - such as McDonald’s, or Burger King. The important thing to note is that these Franchisors are not just selling burgers; they’re selling a consistent way to run a business that sells burgers. This includes marketing, advertising, recipes, the look and feel of the facility from which you, too, would sell burgers, and the well-known branding that goes with that system.

fine print of the franchise business you intend to engage in. To be an effective franchisee, you must be able to know your obligations and dues from the legal agreement you will be making with the franchisor, as well as possible penalties and changes in the license fee. Like any other business endeavour, you may also need to count the cost it will take not just to pay the license fee, but also including marketing strategies and other maintaining expenses.

HELPING TO REBUILD BRITAIN THROUGH

FRANCHISING

Welcome to the third edition of The Franchise Tabloid. The goal of the Tabloid has always been to place the concept of Franchising in the minds of those people who had perhaps not considered Franchising, or were otherwise unaware of the benefits of the various Franchising options. Those people are often looking to start a business of their own, or have suffered a work-life blow and are looking for options.

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I think I can safely say that we are successfully penetrating these new markets - chances are you have picked this Tabloid up from a Business Exhibition, Job Centre, or from one of the outsourcing companies we are helping to provide options to those unlucky many who are suffering redundancies at the moment.

If you are at the beginning of your journey, I hope it will be a successful one, and I hope you are helped along by some of the useful information included in this edition of the Tabloid. If you’re completely new to Franchising, start with the below article...

Good luck! - Phil Phelan

You’ve heard the word Franchise, you’re reading the Franchise Tabloid, but what is this thing, Franchising, and how can it help you?

WHAT IS A FRANCHISE?

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ISSUE NO 3

Ovenu, the professional oven valeting service has helped Neil Greenfield, a former sub-editor, trade in his newspaper job for life as a cleaning specialist setting up a new franchise in St Albans.Neil worked as a sub-editor of a London based newspaper for 15 years. After years of long days in the capital, Neil decided to take redundancy when the opportunity arose and become his own boss.

Being made redundant allowed Neil to look into starting up his own business and also free up some investment capital.

Neil said: “After taking redundancy I worked freelance for a short time but really wanted to start by own business. I spent a lot of time looking into what I wanted to do and into the possibility of franchising. I

CASE STUDY

Former Sub-Editor Cleans Up With New Venture

evaluated my key skills sets and of which businesses would appeal to me.

“After searching through a number of business ideas with a fine tooth comb, I came across franchising. The initial investment is subsequently less that setting up other businesses from scratch so it freed up some investment capital. I was happy to have the option of operating a tried and tested system and procedure and getting all of the help & support available.

“Essentially I was looking for the flexibility and work life balance, which was key to my decision of setting up my own franchise. The franchise route was really for me.

“Being part of a company which is a franchise is great, as there is always help and support from the larger network of colleagues and the Head Office support has been fantastic.“

Since being founded in 1994, Ovenu’s environmentally-friendly service has attracted over 60,000 customers a year. The franchise model has been successfully replicated around the world, including Europe, Australia, New Zealand and the United States.

The valeting service involves dismantling key components of an oven such as the door, interior panels, fan and shelves and placing them into design-registered equipment, which uses non-caustic products to clean the oven parts. The whole process takes around three hours and leaves the oven, hob and exterior in immaculate condition.

Rik Hellewell, Managing Director of Ovenu, said: “Over the last 18 years we have established a very simple, but effective franchise model. As a company we are growing and expanding into new areas. With the right business acumen and commitment, Ovenu can provide a very successful business opportunity for potential franchisees with high growth potential.”

No calorie counting. No points watching. No hassle.

Fantastic opportunities exist with one of the UK’s most successful

weight-management brands.

We operate in a growing market withfranchises available across the UK.

www.Lighterlife.com

01279 636988E. [email protected] MORE INFO?MORE INFO?

Phone: 01325 251455Web: www.ovenfranchise.co.uk


DPP Publishing Ltd T/A The Franchise Tabloid - Company Registered in England no 07377648Page 4

ISSUE NO 3

For the individual owner, there are definite advantages to franchising, some of which are outlined in the list below.

Pros of Franchise BusinessesWell-known trademark, either regionally or nationally, and its cumulative goodwill - saving the business owner the cost of creating and advertising a name that customers already recognize.

Established business framework - minimizing the startup problems and guesswork involved in starting a new business.

Well-tested sources of supply and service - saving time and trouble in finding suppliers of needed products and equipment.

Ongoing sales and marketing assistance - franchisors have proven, existing, and

Looking at the Pros & Cons of Franchising

successful systems of advertising and marketing.

Financial assistance - banks and similar lending institutions are willing to lend money to a business that has the backing of a successful franchisor. Most franchisors have direct financial assistance or help in finding adequate sources of financing.

Reduction of risk - you are buying into an established concept so the risk of failure is lower.

Ongoing research and development - most franchisors constantly research and look into vital information such as competition, product demand, seasonal variations, and community attitudes.

Site selection and business support - the franchisor helps with selecting a suitable site location, building construction design and supervision, employee training, and operational support. Proven operating methods and procedures for creating and selling the product. Standard quality,

uniformity, and desirability of the franchisor's product or service.

Collective buying power and centralized purchasing system - franchises may be able to purchase supplies at a reduced cost since the franchisor can purchase in bulk and pass the savings to the franchisees. Furthermore, with franchising expansion seems to come more naturally.

Operating a successful franchise may quickly lead to building a second and then a third business, and so on. In fact, some franchisees own all businesses of a particular franchise in an entire geographical area. Fortunes have been built this way.

However, despite the advantages to franchising, buying or starting a franchise business is not for everyone. Some of the disadvantages to franchising are discussed in the list below.

Cons of Franchise BusinessesLoss of control and freedom - since the franchisor's standards have to be adhered to, a franchisee may have limited scope for individual personal initiative.

Ongoing royalties could be as high as 10% (or more) of revenues - this amount could determine whether your business is

profitable or not. The initial franchise fee can be quite substantial. It can range anywhere from £2,000 to £75,000 and, in some cases, up to £200,000!

Advertising fees - there is usually a fee for advertising on a regional or national basis. If the franchisor does not make the best use of your advertising dollars, this could be a waste of money.

Required Signage - most franchisors have a developed sign package that the franchisee is required to purchase. This can be very expensive for the small business owner.

The franchisor's problems are also your problems - for example, you could have a serious issue if there was a conflict between the franchisor and a major supplier. In summary, despite the disadvantages of owning a franchise business, it generally offers real advantages with considerably reduced risks over going it on your own.

All franchises are not created equal and research and due diligence should be done before starting or buying any franchise business. Franchising cannot guarantee a profit. You, as the business owner, are ultimately responsible for the success or failure of the venture.

LANCASHIRE

WEST MIDLANDS



ISSUE NO 3

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1,000 new franchises and the creation of 10,000 new jobs per year by 2015, that’s the vision of Mr Franchise a franchise brokerage service which has been launched by Iain Martin, and aims to build a national network of 50 regional consultants.

With an extensive background in franchise match-making, Martin believes he has spotted a significant gap in the market for advisory services for those wishing to acquire a franchise. Currently the only options open to prospective franchisees, are to adopt a ‘DIY’ approach to finding a franchise (seminars, books, exhibitions, magazines, websites etc) or to use a telephone-based brokerage service. The Mr Franchise model is based on taking prospective franchisees through a structured assessment process, which involves a series of face-to-face meetings. Based on this, they will be introduced to franchisors where their attributes fit comfortably, and ‘managed’ through the recruitment process. There is no charge for candidates who acquire a franchise using the Mr Franchise service – franchisors pay a success fee for each franchise awarded.

The business has been launched as a franchise, and following a trial of the system in the Black Country, the first Mr Franchise franchise has been awarded to David Nelson, who has taken on the Lancashire territory. Nelson has been involved in franchising for a number of years as a franchisee, and commented: “Having experienced the challenges associated with using the DIY approach to finding a franchise for myself, I recognised immediately the benefits of having a friendly local consultant who would be able to guide me through the franchise maze. I am delighted to be part of the Mr Franchise network, and although we don’t launch officially until the beginning of March, I am already finding a very positive reception from fellow business professionals in the Preston area.”

Martin believes that with the demise of the local Business Link service, there is no easy way for prospective franchisees to get face-to-face advice, and expects each Mr Franchise consultant to become a key member of their local professional advisory network.

Another major benefit of the service for franchisors, is that the Mr franchise business model is based on meeting prospective franchisees via referrals in their region – whilst some internet and social media promotion will be used, it is not core to the business. As a result Martin expects to be adding to the pool of prospective franchisees, rather than fishing in the same water as everyone else.

National Franchise Brokerage Launched

Our starting point is YOU

“We will take the time to understand your journey and what are your hopes & aspirations are for the future.

“We will help you identify your current skillsets & how these might transfer to other business activities.

“We will identify current franchise opportunities which best suit your Skills, Lifestyle, Ambition & Finance.”

Your success is our success!

HELPING YOU FIND THE RIGHT FRANCHISE

Call: 01562 881002MORE INFO?

Iain MartinPhone:

0156881002Email:

[email protected]

David NelsonPhone:

0156881002Email:

[email protected]

“Many who try often fail, those few who try again often succeed.” -

Phil Phelan

There are opportunities for established franchisors to become part of the Mr Franchise portfolio, but of course at this stage of the development of the network, candidates will only be offered for the Black Country and Lancashire.



ISSUE NO 3

At the recent Franchise Show at ExCeL London Event Decor8 exploded onto the UK franchise market.

With crowds six deep over both days, sales manager Simon Taylor said “We are staggered and delighted with the response we have had to our franchise offering.”Event Decor8 is offering full and part-time franchises across the UK. Event Decor8 is capitalising on a growing trend in the UK for event organisers to spend increasing amounts of money on the ‘look and feel’ of their event. General Manager Mike Glover explains “Whether it’s a wedding, corporate event or fund-raiser, organisers find that it’s the event decor that makes their event stand out from the rest.” He continues, “and the market is crying out for a well organised comprehensive national solution for event decor and this is where Event Decor8 steps up.”

eve n t

8 good reasons to choose anEvent Decor8 Franchise.....

full & part-time opportunitiesacross the UK

the freedom of runningyour own business

have fun living a creativelifestyle

comprehensive businesssupport package

full professional training& online learning portal

access a huge stock rangeas & when you need it

national sales teamwinning major contracts

we are committed to yourlong term success

Event Decor8 offers a comprehensive service including creating bespoke table centres, chair and table coverings, ambient lighting, balloon decorating, drapes, branded decor and table accessories. They can provide all of these services to create an overall look and feel or just one.

After 15 years in the events industry the team behind Event Decor8 decided that franchising was the way to grow their new business. As well as industry knowledge Julie Wood, Event Decor8 director explains there are 3 key advantages that they have “We have a great team of talented people behind this project which is crucial and we have a logistics plan that really gives franchisees a competitive advantage” she continues, “franchisees don’t have to worry about investing in huge amounts of stock they can hire exactly what they want when they want it from our national hub network, thus giving them greater choice and cost advantage over competitors or going it alone.” And the third advantage Julie explains is there awesome brand marketing.

The Event Decor8 brand was developed by Rob J Glover, who runs his own consulting business and is developing quite a reputation for the quality of his work. He also developed the web site and explains that they have huge plans online, “our plans include developing an online training portal and internal franchisee social network that we believe is not only cutting edge in the UK but world wide too.” Each franchise has its own sub-domain, blog and help with online marketing as well as national social media and advertising campaigns.Training and developing franchisee skills is a key part of what makes Event Decor8 different from most other franchises. “It is a journey right from the moment you apply” Mike Glover says, “we really want the right people in the Event Decor8 family and we are in it for the long term with them.” After a successful application potential franchisees are invite to a hands-on discovery day to really get to learn more about the company. Discovery days are set to happen shortly in the South West and South East of England with more to follow later in the year in other parts of the UK.

As the network of Event Decor8 franchises grows across the UK the company has plans to secure nation-wide contracts with large companies and hotel groups to provide

event decor and venue styling services and already have interest from some of the UK’s top players, another incentive for potential franchisees to get on board.

One thing that happened at the franchise show that wasn’t expected was the amount of international interest in Event Decor8 with offers to take on master franchises in a number of countries and an invitation to the Paris Franchise show. While the management team consider their international options Event Decor8 has already booked for more UK franchise shows with even bigger and more exciting plans for their stand.

New Franchise Makes a Splash at the ExCeL

MORE INFO?MORE INFO?

Phone: 0844 335 1042Web: eventdecor8.com/franchise



ISSUE NO 3

No previous experience is required, in-depthFranchise Training is provided where we will share all theknow-how and knowledge we have gained over the years, soyou too can be running your own successful Sports Franchise.

“Owning aProgressive Sports

franchise has been

the best decision

I ever made, from

the word go the

support has been fantastic and I

would recommend Progressive

Sports to anybody.”

Tom Scott, Franchisee for

Walsall & Wolverhampton

The business supportfrom ProgressiveSports was a keyfactor in my decisionto buy the franchise.It has helped me build a significantbusiness in just over 12 months of trading which is on course toturnover £250,000 in my secondyear of trading!”

Kevin Watts, Franchisee for South East London

T:0845 094 1827E: [email protected]

www.progressive-sports.co.uk/sport-franchise.co.ukBecause Sport Matters

Are you passionate about SPORT? !Do you want a better work life BALANCE? !Would you love to be your own BOSS? !If YES, then we can help you to join one of the fastest growing markets with the UK’s No.1 Sports Franchise…

ProgSports Franchise Ad264x166mm 6/3/12 15:03 Page 1



ISSUE NO 3

Is it the end or the beginning? With so many redundancies and so few jobs available, it may be a little hard to see the light. But a light there is, and you might be able to do more than just take a little piece of it for yourself...

As I was digging around trying to find a document I had stored in a challenging and unmemorable place on my computer, I happened to come across this image (right). I took the photo whilst driving through the countryside a couple of weeks ago, as I was passing one of those ‘typical English rolling countryside views’ - the type with hedgerows, and sometimes a boy cycling along with a loaf of Hovis for his Grandmother. Don’t worry, I did stop before I took the photo.

Now I don’t profess to be a good photographer (nor a good writer - in fact I dread to think what a primary school english teacher who would happily dish out de-merits for the mispronunciation of the word ‘parliament’ would say on inspection of beginning a paragraph with the word ‘now’ or even how long this bracketed distraction is!), but... when I stumbled upon this picture I had just been reading about the swathes of redundancies occurring throughout the North East and the rest of the country, and for reasons that will hopefully become apparent, this photograph inspired me to write - however grammatically challenged the result may have ended up! So here goes.

If, like many, you have ever suffered the ill fortune of being made redundant, or some other avenue of being unexpectedly thrown back on to the jobless pile, then you will know that it is a terrifyingly difficult issue to deal with. Frustration and anger can soon turn to anguish and despair as you are forced to accommodate a bleak future of uncertainty - especially if you are supporting dependents - and even more so

MORE INFO?MORE INFO?Philip Phelan is Editor at The Franchise Tabloid and will be happy to review any relevant editorial you wish to submit for the paper

Philip Phelan is Editor at The Franchise Tabloid and will be happy to review any relevant editorial you wish to submit for the paperPhone: 01527 878 646Email: [email protected]

if those dependents are your children with expenses and high expectations. It’s not like there are a whole heap of jobs to choose from, and I’m pretty sure most of the jobs you have been looking at in your field you will most certainly be overqualified for. Great. And although you’re thinking that your redundancy settlement will carry you for long enough to get a job with as high an income as the one you had, believe me, after a while that burger flipping vacancy at the local fast food restaurant will start to look a little more appealing as time goes on and every day you are reading, as I am, about more redundancies, and higher unemployment. (Note - I thoroughly enjoyed my burger flipping days, but my income then wouldn’t cover my living costs now).

But what are you going to do about it?While at the Franchise Show at the London ExCeL (is that how you write it?) I had a very inspiring conversation with a very young lad who had turned his own personal misfortune into an exciting and very lucrative opportunity - but not just for himself - for many others like him.

How is this relevant to you? Because this is exactly what using some of your redundancy pay or savings to invest in a Franchise will do.

You can help yourself, but you can also help others.By investing your money and time in a Franchise business you will more than likely make a good income and generate enough capital to live a very fulfilled life. (I write ‘likely’ because it has been proven that Franchise business start ups are far more successful than other business start ups - this being down to the systems, support, leadership and regular contact you will receive from your Franchisor to help your business grow successfully).

The government is putting out the message that it is the entrepreneurs and new business start ups that are going to save the economy. This is you. And this is what they mean: by starting a business, you will be able to employ others. By choosing to following a Franchise business model you will be able to do this with more certainty, ease, and hopefully with more speed. In this way, you will be able to earn and employ others earlier than through the traditional business start up means.

Carpe DiemI used to have this written on the pages of my planner, now I have an iPad and I don’t know how to work the thing properly, but I have used the expression for so long it is etched into my mind. Literally translated, it means “seize the day” and is my personal call to action. The day isn’t ever long enough for everything I want to do to fit in, hence it has turned tomorrow whilst I am writing this article. Use it as I have used it - to take control of any situation with which you are presented. What you may have thought was a bit of misfortune, may in fact turn out to be the beginning of a new dawn, and a help up the ladder - not just for you, but for your future employees too!

(Incidentally, the photo is meant to represent the dawn of a new era and all that, but was taken at dusk. And the dead tree could represent the solitude of redundancy, with fertile trees as new life on the horizon... perhaps I was reading too much into this.)

Phil Phelan

REDUNDANCIES WILL CONTINUE, BUT WHAT WILL YOU DO ABOUT IT?

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ISSUE NO 3

Pitman shorthand has revolutionised office communications since 1837 and today the revolutionary spirit lives on.

A Business Superbrand (Daily Telegraph Business Superbrands 2009/2010), Pitman Training provides exceptional centre-based office and IT training for thousands of people every year throughout the UK and overseas.

Quality is at the heart of the Pitman Training experience and the strength of the Pitman brand is unrivaled in the sector. We also truly meet customer needs, which gives us a genuine competitive advantage. It’s why we’ve grown during the recession and why we’re searching for more talented and ambitious franchise owners.

The Pitman Training network covers the entire UK and extends into countries

around the world. The sheer breadth of our coverage means that there will always be opportunities for people who can bring commitment and the right attitude to the business. New territories continue to be available and the scope to join the Pitman Training experience is further extended by re-sale opportunities.

Who’s Ideal for Us?When selecting a partner for Pitman Training it is important that we both believe that we are right for each other. Our process in selecting new franchise partners is thorough and detailed. We want to understand you and it is important that you understand us. The first step is to make direct contact with us via phone or email. We will then forward to you an information pack prior to meeting you personally. You will probably have many questions that you wish to ask and we believe that these are best answered during a personal one-to-one meeting.

Discover the Opportunities to be Earned from a Pitman Training Franchise

Concept was historically focussed on the management of domestic property insurance claims becoming the market leader in the Property Insurance Claims industry.

Although this is still a core offering Concept have diversified into other related markets utilising the project management skill base of their franchisees. Concept can now boast a multi service offering to domestic clients, insurance brokers, landlords & property agents and national retailers covering planned maintenance, bathroom/kitchen installation, 24/7 emergency repairs, damp proofing & remedial solutions as well as the traditional insurance claims management.

Previous experience of being involved in project management or running your own business is not essential although would be

beneficial. Concept are looking for positive individuals and organisations with a ‘can do’ attitude to work in partnership with to further develop the Concept network and brand. Concept provide a comprehensive training programme (class room and field based) and ongoing support through their Concept Training Academy. An experienced mentor is assigned to new franchisees during the training programme

Concept Building Solutions



ISSUE NO 3

• A wide variety of building services from small domestic to large commercial • Insurance claims management for the general public• Remedial Solutions including damp proo!ng and condensation control• Retail installation service for a number of major high street brands• Insurance Brokers claims management and ful!lment• Letting agents repairs and maintenance services

A National franchise network of Project Managers, who deal with buildinginsurance claims, remedial treatments and the management of all aspectsof building and property repair.

Concept, the Nations Property Solution...

Concept Building SolutionsPro!table franchise opportunities across the UK

0800 157 10250800 157 10250800 157 1025

Info: www.concept-solutions.co.uk/opportunities • Email: [email protected] • Web: www.concept-solutions.co.uk

concept! " # $ % # & ' ( ( ) * $ " + # * & )

SOLUTIONS

SOLUTIONS

to provide support and guidance at every level.

Concept’s partner companies also provide full onsite training for dealing with remedial treatments, such as the installation of damp proof courses.

Over time Concept has streamlined its training methods to ensure that every member of its Network, regardless of their

background, is confident in providing the Concept services at the high standards required to service national clients.

As part of the Service Solutions Group Concept franchisees can call upon the expert knowledge and services of other Group members including qualified surveyors from Service Solutions Direct and an established contractor network from Tradesmen Solutions

The Other FT

SUBSCRIBE NOW to receive your copy of The Franchise Tabloid every quarter straight to your door step. For only £8.00 per year you will get it first - straight from the press!

Every quarter you will find many new and exciting franchise and business opportunities advertising in the Tabloid along with some great factual and topical editorial written both by our advertisers and in-house editing team.

Fill out your details below and return to: DPP Publishing Limited Unit 22 Sanders Road Ind Est Bromsgrove Worcestershire B61 7DG

The Franchise Tabloid is part of DPP Publishing Limited

£8.00PER YEAR

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Bringing Franchising to the People


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ISSUE NO 3

TM

Designated Operating TerritoryCustomer Leads are Generated for youMarketing MaterialsBusiness Operating Programs and SystemsFull Training and Ongoing SupportThe Tools you need to become a High Earner

UK Trust A Service is a unique business marketing and networking company that helps to promote businesses in your local area. This price includes everything you need to be successful:

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01527 878 646 HELPING TO REBUILD BRITAIN THROUGH

FRANCHISING



ISSUE NO 3

BUSINESS SERVICES

I am Your… is a franchise opportunity for virtually any new business but with a difference.

Tony Bowler, the driving force behind this new concept explains: “We provide the business tools and expertise to allow new entrepreneurs to provide the services and or products, which they are good at in order to maximise their success.

“Any business can use the I am Your… brand and business tools, and, as part of our network have access to many cross selling opportunities.”

A vital part of the package for franchisees was the CRM solution. After a month of evaluating a number of different CRM systems Tony selected webCRM. Tony explains: “I chose webCRM for a number of different reasons, namely;

‣ More intuitive and easy to use

‣ Many excellent features

I am Your…webCRM Cloud Solution

‣ In built email marketing capability

‣ Fast PDF form creation

‣ Customisable email templates for each Franchise

‣ Access by mobile devices

‣ Link to on-line accounting system economic

‣ Superb local support and implementation

“webCRM are a fast growing Cloud based solution with a focus on good old fashioned service.”

MORE INFO?MORE INFO?WebCRMWebCRMWeb: www.webcrm.comPhone: 0845 054 2988

I Am Your...I Am Your...Web: www.iamyourfranchise.co.ukPhone: 0845 180 0 180

01527 87370307793 359810

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Call today to find out how we help you with any of these services, including how we can help you with Mac Support.



ISSUE NO 3

BUSINESS SERVICES

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Connect EMI

Thinking of growing your business?

Franchising is one of the quickest ways to grow your business efficiently. Connect EMI can help with your expansion plans. We specialise in helping great businesses with proven business models break into the franchise market.

Connect EMI can undertake a full appraisal of your company and will set out a plan for turning your business into a high quality franchise model for success in the UK.

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What’s In A (Domain) Name?

"Domain names are much more than just a technical shortcut. A short, memorable domain name can make the difference between creating a successful Web presence and getting lost in cyberspace”

Adding credibility to your small business.

Having a unique domain name makes your company look professional. If you publish your site through an ISP or a free Web hosting site, you'll end up with a URL such as www.yourisp.com/-yourbusiness. This generic address does not inspire confidence in a customer like a www.unique.com domain name does. And since many people do not yet fully trust the Internet and e-commerce, you will want to do what you can to prove that your small business deserves their money. If you are not willing to pay the money to get hold of an

appropriate domain name, why would consumers think you would put any effort into creating valuable products or services?

A domain name says you are forward-thinking.

Having a unique domain name indicates you are part of the Digital Revolution, and it implies that you are up-to-date on emerging technologies. Whether this is true or not, having your own unique domain name might just put you ahead of your competitors.

A domain name adds mobility to your Internet presence. The control that leasing or buying your domain name gives you, lets you take that name with you if you transfer Web hosts or switch to your own in-house server. If you do not have full control of your domain name, you will have to take a new URL, which will destroy the branding that you built up with your first address.

A domain name builds your brandMore than anything else, a domain name can increase awareness of your brand. If your domain name matches your company

name, it reinforces your brand, making it easier for customers to remember and return. It will also be easier to win business via word of mouth because customers will remember your name and pass it along to friends. Businesses have also been known to change their business operating name to match an available domain - this is probably a more regular occurrence than you think!

How do I get a good domain name?Securing “the one” can be difficult these days as so many domains are taken, but a good agent will be able to help you all the registration and services you need.

What is domain leasing?Domain Leasing is just like leasing property. When you lease a domain name you can develop it and use it exclusively for your own business project. You can keep the exclusive rights to use the domain until you wish to end the lease contract. Domain leasing allows you to use a premium domain name at a competitive monthly price, rather than paying an often very high one off price to gain exclusive rights to the domain.

We sell and lease Internet domains, as well as procuring and providing services to domains on your behalf. Simple.

Goyugi have a range of premium industry specific domains that are available to lease or to buy. At Goyugi we believe that leasing a domain is the best way forward for small businesses, new projects or businesses that want to draw short term contracts on their domain ownership. However, many businesses choose to buy a domain outright and we can help you do that too!

Domains available right now:

Visit www.goyugi.com to find out more or to make an enquiry about your future domain name marketing strategy

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What are the key benefits of leasing a domain name?

There are many benefits to leasing a domain name over purchasing a domain name outright:

• Premium recogniseable domain names are better in terms of marketing

• Premium domains provide strong brand identities

• Established domain names provide better returns in search engine results

• Premium domain names can strengthen an existing brand

• Leasing domain names is cheaper than buying them, and more manageable in terms of budgeting

• Leasing drastically reduces the start up cost of any new or 'side step' business venture

The bottom line is that a good domain name can go a long way toward generating traffic to your Web site.

ISSUE NO 3


Email: [email protected]: www.goyugi.com



ISSUE NO 3

Jusin Brookes, Mail Boxes Etc. Oxford- BFA Franchisee Board Member

Plenty of scope and variety for dynamic Mail Boxes Etc franchisees

Business services franchise Mail Boxes Etc. (MBE) needs lively new franchisees to join its 125-strong network and open new stores across the UK and Ireland. MBE’s unique “one stop” High Street stores serve both local communities and businesses.

MBE wants people who are dynamic and energetic to respond to an ever increasing demand for their services. This is great news for new franchisees and also for existing ones who want to buy additional stores. This includes people like MBE’s current “Franchisees of the year”, Faraz Ahmad and Osman Ahmed, two young men who have been franchisees for just two years and already have five central London stores. Award winners Faraz and Osman say: “We listened to all the advice we were given by our franchisor and then just followed their excellent system.”

The previous winners of the award, business partners and brothers in law Murli Mulchandani and Rikesh Nichani, operate four London stores and are just as enthusiastic about Mail Boxes Etc. and equally appreciative of the role of their franchisor. They said: “We researched

Never a Dull Momentmany different franchises but none really appealed to us until we met MBE. We particularly liked the combination and variety of MBE’s different services and knew that they meet a genuine need. Now demand is escalating, especially for courier services and mailbox rental.”

MBE’s franchisees come from all backgrounds, ages and walks of life and from many different areas across the country. They have worked in sales, marketing and management environments and include former Board members of large blue-chip organisations, an ex-Police officer and a cruise ship photographer.

MBE needs people who are enthusiastic, dynamic, hard-working and open-minded. They need drive and the determination to succeed but don’t need previous experience because the comprehensive training covers everything they need to know..

Mail Boxes Etc. is a full member of the BFA. The training and support package includes site selection shop fitting and design, equipment and initial local marketing. Typically, the investment starts from around £60,000 of which up to about 70 per cent can usually be financed by one of the leading banks, all of whom have excellent working relationships with Mail Boxes Etc.

A Unique Franchise Opportunity Turn your love of property........Into a highly rewarding career

Provide a service traditionally undertaken by architects

* No drawing or technical skills required

* A niche market with growth potential

*A proven system established in 2001

Work from home - Hours to suit you Respected profession High earning potential

If you have an interest in property, a passion for customer service and the confidence and organisational ability to run your own business, working from home with flexible hours then we would like to work with you.

Planning to Build Your Future Success

Enjoy all the TV shows about improving property ? always fancied being an architect ? Then EasyPlan have developed a franchise business just for you.

The UK district planning authorities receive hundreds of thousands of planning applications from homeowners wishing to extend their properties every year, creating a market of over £200 million. After many successful years in architectural design, the directors of EasyPlan have created a unique system which allows you to move into an industry currently only available to highly trained professionals.

EasyPlan provide architectural services to customers wishing to improve their homes. We prepare drawings and submit them to the local planning department, taking away the stress of extending their home. EasyPlan supply the technical drawings, training and support services allowing you to build a local business without the need for technical qualifications.

EasyPlan specialise in domestic development, though we can also handle small commercial or new build work. We provide a modern approach to helping builders and homeowners through the pre build process with fixed fee quotations, use of the latest technology and top class customer service. We have been doing just this for over ten years, and as a franchise model for the last four years.

Since launching our pilot franchises in 2007 we have modified and improved our systems and protocols so that any new franchisee joining EasyPlan can be assured that everything from the initial training , the day to day systems and the on-going support is exactly what they need to run their own successful architectural business.

Your role would be to gather the information required for EasyPlan to produce the necessary drawings and specification, then submit them to the local council using an on line system which makes the process simple and stress free for both you and your customer

We are looking for individuals who love property and are passionate about customer service, who want to run their own business, be their own boss, working the times and days they wish and reaping the benefits of their hard work. We provide all the technical knowledge and support to enable our franchisees to work as a local architectural company and reap the benefits that brings.

If you feel you would like to know more and be considered as an EasyPlan franchisee then call us on

0121 314 5333 or email [email protected]



ISSUE NO 3

You're starting your journey in finding a Franchise business that suits your needs, but in addition to the many questions that you should pose to a potential Franchisor, and the many questions they should pose to you, there are several other considerations for you to determine your compatibility with a particular Franchise system.

If you are going to be getting into business with someone with the goal of creating an outstanding future together, you should cover more bases than just the basic questions to understand how the business makes money. That will be ultimately important of course, but several general considerations will be imperative for you to analyse as well, if you really want to understand your potential ‘strategic-partner’.

The Franchisor’s Qualification SystemOne of the initial things you should strive to understand is the level of development that the Franchisor’s Candidate qualification system has reached. Your first reaction to that might be ‘Why do I care about a Franchise Qualification system – I only care if I get a Franchise or not?’ I would suggest that you should care a great deal.

After all, if the Franchise Candidate qualification system hasn’t been well developed, it may be a reflection on the business of the Franchise itself. The most important asset of any Franchise system will be its people, including both Franchisees, and Franchisor staff. Almost all companies will confirm that to be the case. They say it even if they don’t believe it. They say it even if they don’t actually put systems in place to ensure they add the best people, and nurture their development over time. So how do you determine if the statement matches the execution?

Researching Your Franchise Opportunity

If people are the most important asset, it would follow that the system of finding, qualifying, and granting Franchises to the best Franchisees would be a well thought out and well developed system. If there is no formal step-by-step system to provide information to both parties then it may be an indicator that there is something amiss.

A good system will be able to provide you regular information to help you make an informed business decision about joining as a Franchisee. It should also provide the Franchisor with information about you to help them make an informed decision as well. That decision should be whether you qualify as someone they can describe as one on their ‘most important assets’.

If the system doesn’t allow for a step-by-step, give and take, system of information flow, then perhaps the other business systems within the Franchise aren’t as well developed as represented either. The information system shouldn’t be so fast that you are overloaded, but it should be steady enough that you can continue to assess, and deliver information, at a pace that makes sense for both parties.

If the system is too fast, for example if you are given Disclosure Documents within the first week of the due diligence process before many other things are assessed, I would suggest there is something wrong. To rush is to err. On the other hand, if the system is too slow, you won’t get a true flavour for the company because of the sporadic nature of the flow. Culture is

important, and a steady flow of data will give you a better feel for the culture of the business than trading information every three weeks for a six-month period. If you are not looking to make a decision with 30 to 120 days, I would suggest that you wait until you are to that point before you engage fully in a Franchise Qualification system. That doesn’t mean that you need to be in business in that timeframe, only that you would like to make a decision in that timeframe.

Some systems will include a step-by-step system where you will receive information from the Franchisor, and then you will be required to provide some information to them. Once you provide the information,

then the Franchisor will send you additional data to help you gain more intimate knowledge and so on. The reason for that type of system, which I would judge to be ideal, is that each of you is illustrating commitment to the process. This is an important factor for the Franchisor to determine because it is a great indicator to them that you will be able to follow and use a good system to your advantage. That’s what Franchising is all about. The Franchisor has invested a significant amount of time and money to develop a proven system that is designed to earn all stakeholders a maximum return. Therefore the Franchisor must determine that each new Franchisee is willing and able to follow a good system. What better place to start than the basic evaluation system.

In today’s world, that system should use various media to communicate with you including email, telephone, mail, the internet and in person. Again, this will demonstrate the Franchisor’s use of current technologies and methods to really get to know you, and to stay current in an ever-changing global environment.

If the Franchisor does not have a good step-by-step information flow and due diligence system then that alarm bell in your head should go off.

Communications with Existing FranchiseesOne of the most important sources of valuable information will be the existing Franchisees. The Franchisor’s system should include available exposure to all of the Franchisees. First of all, in most jurisdictions where Disclosure Documents are required, one of the required disclosures is a full list of all Franchisees, including contact information.

CHOICES,CHOICES.

If you’re not sure then

get in touch and we’ll

see if we can help...

[email protected]

Continued on page 23



NOW Recruiting Across The North East

Are you ready to be in business for yourself

but not by yourself?

opportunity for you.

Not being your normal garden maintenance

business has made us the worlds number 1 and

with thousands of successful franchised partners

As a franchised business partner you can expect

full support from us throughout the term of your

licence agreement and for just £15,000 the

pect, allowing you to get your business profitable

and busy as quickly as possible.

The £15,000 Jims Mowing Franchise package

includes:

Full horticulture & safety training.

Local micro-‐site website.

Equipment pack (£2500 approximate value).

Fully branded uniform & safety equipment.

The Jims Mowing proprietary business software

system.

Business stationary.

Launch marketing.

Continual support.

Call us on 0845 263 6595 or see us at www.jimsmowing.co.uk

ISSUE NO 3

The winter months have proved to be a busy period for the Jim’s Mowing community with gardening work in abundance, new franchisees joining, an additional service added to the line-up, two exciting enhancements to the franchise package and a productive annual conference in Chepstow, Wales.

New work enquiries for our franchise owners were up 308% in the three months to the end of January 2012 compared to the similar period last year. While it’s fair to say that December and January last year were badly affected by the heavy snowfalls but even compared to the last ‘normal’ winter, that of 2008/09, this

year’s new work generation is up by 175%.

Where is this growth coming from? Most of the credit can be attributed to our Pay Per Click (PPC) which is ensuring that when somebody searches on the internet for a gardener in an area where we have a Jim, then Jim’s Mowing will feature in the Top 3 of the results list.

New pages on our web site describing the services that we can offer during the winter and how we can help in the event of storm damage in the garden have both been linked to the PPC to generate job requests.

The PPC campaign provides our franchise owners with a significant advantage over independent gardeners as the economies of scale from being part of a large organisation make PPC possible.

These days, a successful business needs more than just a web site that has been optimised. Of course, it’s not PPC by itself. It can’t stand alone; it needs to be

complimented by more traditional marketing channels such as local newspapers, business

Reasons why Jim’s Mowing is DifferentOur ability to offer an all year round business to the domestic and commercial user, with multiple revenue streams, high profit margins, low operating costs, our ability to attract high levels of repeat business and a high volume of referrals, and the opportunity to join and be supported by the world’s largest garden maintenance franchise brand are just some of the key reasons why our franchise owners have invested in a Jim’s Mowing franchise.

For many, a Jim’s Mowing franchise represents a change of lifestyle, the opportunity to work outdoors, to be your own boss and to develop long lasting relationships. Whilst Jim’s Mowing is your own business, we are here to support you every step of the way.

A flat rate monthly management fee offers the rare opportunity to expand and maximise your business by not having to pay your Franchisor a fixed percentage of

your revenue. You’ve earned it, you deserve to keep it!

A Work Availability Guarantee of £550 per week provides a safety net to your cash flow in the initial phase of setting up your business.

A Jim’s Mowing franchise offers you comfort and support from a large, successful, multi-national organisation. Being part of a multi divisional group, could also result in higher exit values.

National partnership deals with Hill’s Clotheslines, Gutterguard and Simply Turf to compliment the traditional gardening revenue streams.

Jims Mowing - A Cut Above The Rest? HELPING TO REBUILD

BRITAIN THROUGH FRANCHISING


Phone: 0845 263 6595Web: www.jimsmowing.co.uk



ISSUE NO 3

Managers DirectorsConsultants SalesProfessionalsMake your skills and experience reallycount. We offer high calibre new andpractising Consultants with pragmaticbusiness experience and experiencedSales Professionals the opportunity to

Access high value consultingopportunitiesDevelop new solutionsNetwork with like minded peopleWork as a teamBuild a profitable business

If you are considering a career as or arealready a practising independentConsultant or a Sales Professional andwould like to find out more – visit

www.lamberhurst.com/recruitPlease quote reference PM0509

Opportunitiesfor

Lamberhurst Ad 126x97 V2 14/4/09 13:06 Page 1



If you’ve pondered any of these questions I know that you’re not alone.

There’s little wonder. The opportunity to be master of your own destiny by working with an established brand name and to enjoy the benefits of a proven business methodology, expert training and on-going business support, has got to be an attractive proposition for individuals with the drive to succeed.

The UK franchising sector continues to produce exciting statistics. In an industry worth over £11 billion, there are now approximately half a million people from all walks of life who’ve recognised the benefits of working with good franchising companies. These companies offer franchising opportunities in a broad range of industry sectors - but is franchising right for you?

Often successful franchise investigation is about focusing on options that match your goals and ambitions. By putting your ladder on the right wall, you will save time, taking the small steps necessary to reach new heights.

But how do you find the right wall for you and what preventative measures have you thought of to protect yourself from a fall?

CONFUSED?

Here are some ideas:

Work out your preferences, goals and objectives

There are some important questions to ask yourself before you start investigating franchise companies; start thinking about what is important in your life.

‣ What are your goals and objectives?

‣ What attracts you to business ownership?

‣ Why are you considering change at this time?

‣ What are your strengths?

‣ What business categories interest you?

A clear defined plan for achieving your goals and meeting your expectations will help when you begin your search.

Identify what works for you

People have unique characteristics, skills, personalities and temperaments that allow them to perform well in certain situations and environments. Think about yours. Maybe ask those who know you well - old work associates, family and friends whose opinion you respect.

Franchising should be a long term commitment and if you’re fortunate enough to work within an environment that is suited to your personality, the journey becomes more enjoyable and fun. So find out what makes you tick. What’s your passion?

Search for the facts and find the truth

What’s your franchising knowledge? Don’t rely on second hand information and assumptions from other people. Be aware of ill-informed prejudice when mentioning your franchising ambitions to colleagues and associates. How do they know what they know?

Search for the facts and find the truth. We achieve this by making only calculated, educated decisions. There are many franchising resources available and good people within the franchising industry ready to share their successes and experiences - find them.

Investigate companies

Not all franchise opportunities are the same. Successful companies have common ethics and principles. Good franchise companies are very selective and look for specific traits in a franchise candidate. They qualify you for their system while you investigate whether you may want to invest in their franchise. This two-way investigation process is often referred to as ‘mutual due diligence’.

The best franchise companies have invested years of hard work and tremendous amounts of money into their franchise systems. They should be very selective about who they allow to join their family of franchise owners.

Always ask for information about their preferred franchisee profile. Franchise companies should be recruiting and

awarding their franchise to the right people, not selling them to anybody with the available finance. These are the franchise companies that are worth investigating because this discipline on their part protects your investment.

Trust your gut and stick to the plan

Once you have considered all the information that the franchise companies give you, trust your gut and make your decision. Don’t be put off by fear of failure. Whether you’re a person who is motivated by the pull of achievement or someone who is disabled by the fear of failure, stick to the plan and review your map to reach your goals.

Buying into a business is a life-changing decision and one that needs as much expert advice as you can get. You don’t have to do it on your own. MatchPoint provides free independent professional advice and support to individuals considering investing in a franchise .

The Franchise Advisor

- How do you know that franchising is right for you?

- How do you know that the 100s of franchises available are good options for you?

- How much research should you do before you invest in a franchise?

MORE INFO?MORE INFO?To find out how we can help you to make the right choice for you contact us todayTo find out how we can help you to make the right choice for you contact us todayPhone: 0844 3102611Email: [email protected]

Website: www.franchisingmatters.com

Andree Kerr, Right at Home’s new franchisee within the London area, is keen to start her business as she means to go on.

Andree says: “I want to be as ethically profitable as possible by managing the delivery of a home care and assistance service within the following context:

- Right at Home is a local company providing home care and assistance for older and vulnerable members of our community.

- Our home care assistants are dedicated to improving quality of life, going that extra mile to ensure we deliver an outstanding service.

- We believe in a duty of care, both to our employees and to our service users.

- Continuing professional development is encouraged and all staff are trained in up-

to-date moving and handling techniques, first aid and food hygiene.

- We offer a minimum of 60-minute care packages, rising to 24x7 hours covering companionship through to complex personal care needs.

- And we wrap all this up in a value for money pricing structure.



ISSUE NO 3

I’m an engineer by training and worked in the energy industry for many years, developing and introducing new technology. When I was made redundant I took stock and isolated a number of features as being key to my next role. I realised it needed to offer a challenge, utilise my previous experience, have the potential to benefit the wider community and afford me the opportunity to make a difference personally.

These criteria proved hard to match to existing opportunities, particularly as my experience was in growing young businesses and the UK was suffering the worst recession in 70 years. However, I was determined not to compromise, and so I started to look at other options, including starting a business. For many reasons franchising appeared the safest way to make this happen. I looked into franchise opportunities and shortlisted a few, including MatchPoint.

I spoke to some franchisors on my shortlist but felt their business models were too closely geared to their benefit at the expense of my own. I also felt that some would allow me less autonomy than being an employee. Realising the potential scale and duration of a search for the right opportunity, I decided to seek help with matching my requirements to the needs of a franchisor, so I contacted MatchPoint.

Christopher Tansley, my MatchPoint consultant, explained how they match franchisees with franchisors through a combination of education, discussion and profiling. He explained the concept of franchising and the different types of franchises available.

We discussed what I wanted from a franchise, I completed questionnaires and he built a profile of me. Using this and my list of criteria, he selected three franchises that he thought would be a good fit. Each had their merits and I conducted due diligence on them all.

The franchise that I eventually selected was not one that would have been obvious to me; the skills and goals match would not have been evident. I chose a home care franchise called Right at Home – not an obvious choice for someone from engineering! But on closer investigation, and because of the process I had gone through with Christopher, it soon became clear that it is a very good match for my skill set, goals and ambitions.

Having identified that the franchise met my personal goals, I needed to be sure the business was viable. I did some research, considered the operational nature of the company and concluded that there was space and need within the market for a quality home care service that did the simple things well. My goals now are to be profitable, build my operation, and expand my territory and of course enjoy the journey and give back to the community.

Christopher’s success in matching me with a franchise that met, and continues to meet, my criteria and skill set attests to MatchPoint’s judicious and reliable selection and matching process.

To find your franchise match, contact Christopher.

CASE STUDY

From engineer to care management

Christopher Tansley started his first franchise when he was just nineteen years of age and has been working as a MatchPoint franchise business advisor since 2009.

He has helped match many individuals with over 50 of the world’s Top performing franchise businesses using MatchPoints unique personal profiling system.

“Your service in matching my needs to realistic and applicable franchises has been excellent. You have kept things moving and communicated superbly. I would recommend your service” - Russell Gard

ABOUT CHRIS

“Christopher balances taking his job seriously with a personable, easy-going style. He demonstrates deep interest in both the franchise community and the individuals he is working with. In my contact with him, he presented ideas that both matched my line of thinking and developed it further in a productive way. His franchise clients that I met, also rated him highly. I trust his judgment and would recommend him.” - Andy Bedwell

Taking on a Right At Home Franchise

Continued on page 20

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“My business is of course in its fledgling stage. As time goes on the challenges will change.”

Andree discovered the Right at Home franchise while taking a break in her career in 2007, at a time when her mother’s health was deteriorating.

Andree had worked in high level human resources positions for more than twenty years, starting out as a human resources generalist and progressing to global human resources leader, her last position being with PricewaterhouseCoopers, working in the human resources services division as an account director, where she managed clients right across Europe.

Four years on, in February 2011 Andree was seeking to get back to work. She says: “I have had a number of career breaks over a 30-year period and have never encountered any barriers to re-entering the workforce. This time it was different. I was older and my business experience and transferable skills seemed to be the issue. Comments like ‘you are overqualified’ and ‘you have too much experience’ made me feel that potential employers were looking for reasons not to give me a job, rather than every reason to consider me.”

Andree decided on a complete change; that she did not want to get back into the corporate way of life, and instead wanted a challenge that would give her more of a sense of purpose, and a better sense of wellbeing.

Knowing that human resources was no longer for her, Andree started considering something that would be a complete change; working for herself with the support of a great brand behind her. Franchising soon became the obvious choice.

Andree chose to use the services of a franchisee recruitment specialist to help her find the right franchise, which helped channel her thinking and focused her attention on what she was going to enjoy doing and what she would derive the most satisfaction from.

Two of Andree’s ‘ownership criteria’ were that she wanted to join a franchise that was not well established in the UK and that had a franchise agreement longer than five years - wanting to be part of a team that would help lead the way for the brand, which would logically afford her much more

support to become successful than if she was a later starting franchise.

Following a visit to a franchise exhibition in March 2011, Andree met Ken Deary, UK master franchisor for Right at Home, and was impressed. Andree says: “Ken is a successful businessman who knows franchising extremely well. He sets a high standard in ethical codes of conduct, which is extremely important to me. We had shared similar experiences in finding out about and delivering care to our family. As the due diligence process progressed, it became clear there was a strong overlap between my own values and those of Right at Home, personified by Ken Deary.”

Andree was also impressed by the professionalism, enthusiasm and dedication of the Right at Home team in Preston, adding: “I can honestly say there is not anyone on the team who is not fantastic.”

Andree still continues to be impressed by Right at Home as she continues her franchise journey - since her comprehensive two-week training course she sas that: “I have had personal phone calls from the founder of Right at Home, Allen Hager, and the COO, Brian Petranick, welcoming me into the business. I think that’s pretty impressive.”

Continued from page 21



ISSUE NO 3

If you get a feel that a Franchisor is discouraging you from communicating with certain Franchisees – well, there’s that alarm bell again.

That’s not to say that all Franchisees will be happy, or that all will be great operators. In fact, most systems have disgruntled or unsuccessful Franchisees. It will be important for you to speak to the top echelon, the middle range people, and the poor performers. The test should be to identify the factors that differentiate the groups. Then determine how you are more like the successful people, and how you are not like the unsuccessful people.

The most important point is that the Franchisor has a system to allow efficient access to all Franchisees. Some Franchisors will provide email questions to send to all Franchisees plus ask you to call your own sample from the complete list. Others will provide for conference calls with several Franchisees. Others will provide for Discovery Days including existing Franchisees. Of course, conference calls and Discovery Days will include ‘favourable’ Franchisees. That doesn’t mean those processes aren’t very helpful – you just have to realise who you’re dealing with.

Other Franchisors will ask you to talk to people in your geographic area. Or people with a similar background. All of these things make sense, but you must ensure that you also have the ability to communicate with any existing Franchisee, and not just the suggested sample. You will be able to judge the Franchisor’s openness through their reactions in this process.

ResponsivenessThis one is fairly simple but very important. If the Franchisor responds to your inquiries quickly and efficiently, it’s probably a good indicator of the type of responsiveness the company executes as a whole. Of course, that becomes very important when you require support once you become a Franchisee.

If a Franchisor takes several days to get back to you after your initial inquiry, you should take that as a warning sign. If they don’t respond in an efficient and professional manner to your email and telephone inquiries as you go through the process, it probably means they are not running a tight ship.

A system that responds almost immediately, and then starts you on a step-by-step information flow, including personal contact, should be what you are looking for in terms of responsiveness.

Face-To-Face MeetingThe system of evaluation for both parties should include a face-to-face meeting. After all, you are trying to determine if you want to get into business together for 5, 10, 15 or more years. If a Franchisor wants you to join the system without a face-to-face meeting, it doesn’t really make sense. Would you start a partnership business without meeting your partner? A Franchise is not an actual partnership, but the same criteria should apply. It should actually apply to the Franchisor every bit as much as to you. So if that meeting is not part of the process, the system is incomplete.

There are several ways for the face-to-face meeting to take place. Many Franchisors have development personnel that will meet you in your community or a convenient location for both parties. Some Franchisors require a head office visit. Others will host Discovery Days, either at their head office or on a regional basis. All of these methods are fine, as long as you have some time for some one-on-one interaction.

I once asked a mentor of mine when our company was first beginning to offer

Franchises, about the best method to determine that ‘right’ match. He said to me that the ultimate test is whether you would be willing to have the person over for a barbecue in your backyard. Of course, there are many other factors, but his point was that it should be someone that you would like to be in business with, and would enjoy their company.

The face-to-face meeting should also include an invitation for your spouse to participate. In fact, some systems require the spouse to be in attendance. Again, it is sensible to include spouses at the discovery stage because the ultimate decision to start a new Franchise business will be focused on building family dreams, and providing family security for the future. If a spouse is not fully aware and comfortable at the decision-making stage, it could create difficulties down the road as you build the business.

The main point is that if a face-to-face meeting is not a part of the process, and your spouse is not welcome to attend, the process is faulty.

Unified ThinkingI’m not going to spend much time with this point at this stage, other than to say that the entire process of due diligence, for both parties, should be about determining whether there is unified thinking. My

counsel is to step back at the end of the process and ask yourself the following question: Did the process help both parties to determine if they have unified thinking about the business at hand? If the answer is not yes, then you’ve either got more work to do, or something with the system is not right and you should examine alternatives.

Franchising is about finding the right strategic-partnerships to allow both parties to prosper at a higher level together than they would if they were not to enter into an agreement to do business together.

You must be comfortable with the Franchising concept itself. It’s the Franchisor’s strategy to penetrate and dominate a marketplace. You’ve got to be comfortable with the Franchisor’s strategies to do just that. If they make sense to you, it can be a great ride in achieving success together.

You should assess your needs, wants and desires to make sure that they can be met with a successful Franchise in the system. You should bring to the surface all of your fears, uncertainties, and doubts to determine if you can solve them with the business and the future you can create. The worst thing you can do is leave them buried.

Finally, can you see yourself reaching your goals, dreams and objectives by operating a successful business in the Franchisor’s system? Will the Franchise help you to achieve those goals and dreams?

Continued from page 17

Researching Your Franchise Opportunity

INSIDE INFORMATIONThe Inside Man



ISSUE NO 3

Franchise Industry Consultant Martin Chambers interviews Mike Hanrahan, Managing Director of Maid2Clean

MC: Could you share your background prior to starting your business?MH: My background is in Chemical Engineering, Purchasing, Quality Management and Lean Six Sigma.

MC: When did you establish Maid2clean?MH: This business started in 1993 when my now ex-wife was pregnant with our eldest daughter. The franchise business was launched after 10 successful years of operation.

MC: How did you come up with the idea to start this business?MH: We looked at a variety of home-based business ideas, but wasn’t not happy with the constraints of traditional cleaning franchises at that time so we re-engineered the best elements of the business models we had seen.

MC: What were your main lifestyle and business goals when you established Maid2Clean?MH: For the original management agency cleaning business it was to create a substantial residual income. For the Franchise business it was to share our winning formula to hundreds of franchisees in the UK and beyond.

MC: How has the business evolved since you started it?MH: Yes hugely. We have developed a large number of unique portfolio items for the brand as we continue to strive to be the brand of choice.

According to cleaning customers and Franchisees we must be doing something right as they tell us nobody in the industry has been able to articulate their brand offering better than us.

MC: What is the secret of your success?MH: Having a genuine business that is unique, replicable and that works certainly helps but it’s the confidence and discipline applied that makes anything successful.

MC: Tell us about Maid2Clean and the services it providesMH: Maid2Clean is a management franchise in the domestic services sector responsible for advertising a domestic workers, interviewing them in their own homes, following the references, providing the closest geographical matching service of client cleaner, insurance against damage caused and finally a replacement service in case a cleaner becomes sick or goes on holiday or hopefully never not satisfactory.

MC: What makes it different to other cleaning companies serving the sector? MH: With Maid2clean we have…

1. No staff overhead costs

2. No cleaner overalls to provide

3. No expensive cleaning equipment to buy

4. No cleaning materials to buy

5. No transportation of cleaners or equipment from 1 job to another

6. No dependency on highly skilled staff

7. No cold calling or sales involved

8. No cash flow problems – clients pay in advance of the cleans

9. No van purchase/hire costs

10. No invoicing or cash collections

11. No running a cleaning business charging £30 per hour

12. In fact there’s no need to ever meet a client

MC: How much is the franchise investment needed?MH: The cost of the franchise is under £10,000.

MC: What does a Maid2Clean Franchisee Do all Day?MH: Franchisee would be involved with recruiting cleaners and managing leaflet distributions for clients and marrying the two.

MC: What were the most difficult challenges you faced as you began to grow?MH: I have built the cleaning business with my ex-wife in the early days and then more recently when I was divorced. On both occasions I did this on a part-time basis. One the most difficult challenges acquiring the right quality of cleaners to meet the huge demand for the service.

MC: Maid2Clean believes in systems, so that franchisees can work more independently. What unique systems have you been able to set up for Maid2clean? MH: Maid2Clean operates in a way that no other business does to our knowledge. The franchise business operates no differently in that a number of unique tools have been developed to support our franchisees.

Such tools include the development of our own cleaner recruitment portal called nationwide – cleaners.com, our ZeeForum online knowledge sharing portal for franchisees which is a far more than just a forum, a secure data repository database where franchisees can keep business plans, invoices, returns, annual accounts and key business data, our MOP unique ordering portal, and MaidVersity, the world’s first online training and development program including examination in domestic cleaning.

MC: What advice would you give a woman interested in starting a business and creating her own business with maid2Clean?

MH: 50% of our 100+ franchisees are female. You would be best placed to ask them but if I was to hazard to guess I would say that they would need to conduct their due diligence, visit the Maid2clean operation and see for themselves what it is that they’re buying into in addition to talking to people that are actually doing it.

MC: What are your plans for the future?MH: We plan on expanding the brand by master licensing! We are presently looking for master licensees in Australia, Canada, the United States, Portugal and the Lodge number of other countries,

MC: How would you describe the Maid2Clean franchise opportunity?MH: I would describe it as a real business and by that I mean a real business is one that will pay you Whether you are present in it in the long term or not.

MC: That viewpoint may upset a few franchisorsMH: I understand that and that’s my view on businesses. I honestly believe that many alleged businesses out there including franchises whilst may be proven concepts they are in effect only selling jobs and not a real business whereby franchisees can build long-term residual income.

MC: Describe your target market and the potential for your business across the UK?MH: The target market for me to clean up the affluent masses who can afford a few pounds a week to buy back two to three hours of our lives by conveniently having a domestic cleaner to come in and help them. We take the headache after arranging the clean.

MC: Has the current economic uncertainty affected your business?MH: Sure what we have lost clients during the recession but without question we have gained many more. Strangely enough we continue to grow in both recessional and good times.

Martin Chambers, Industry Consultant explores one of the UK’s best known

franchise companies - Maid2Clean - with Managing Director, Mike Hanrahan



ISSUE NO 3

MC: What international markets do you have a presence in?We presently have a presence in the UK, Ireland, Canada, Australia and Malaysia.

MC: Maid2clean operates at the low cost end of the domestic cleaning sector. Why do you think it has done so well?MH: I think it relates to the services that we offer in the way that we do them. Before we came along having your house cleaned was a huge risk for many and even not possible pricewise. We have succeeded where others have failed because of our ongoing commitment to quality cleaner recruitment and development alongside listening to feedback from our clients.

MC: What differentiates Maid2Clean from its competition?MH: There are too many of them to list here but these include:

• No cold calling .

• Customers pay in advance.

• We are management business (not a job or a cleaning business to run)

• Rapid return on investment compared to others in the sector

• Growth market sector with nationwide demand for our services

• Lower overheads than the competition

• Can be run full of all time or from home

• A Strong residual repeat business

MC: What training do you provide?MH: Our Maid2Clean®training program is in 5 phases.

1. Read & complete the pre-launch to dos in the 450 page Maid2Clean® operations manual.

2. Process Training at Head Office

3. Operations Training at our Centre in Nuneaton

4. Post Launch training

5. Business consolidation follow-up training PLUS unlimited follow-up training if necessary.

MC: What support do you provide thereafter?MH: In addition to a personal visit from me franchisees are invited to post questions and interface with others on our online franchisee forum.

We also hold an annual conference where all franchisees are expected to attend. In addition to this we hold several business improvement meetings at different places each year to maximize the number of franchisee attendees.

MC: What are the most important characteristics you look for in potential franchise owners?MH: Applying for a Maid2clean franchise is not simple. Following the completion of a personal profile document, franchisee applicants must attend an interview with me

and demonstrate that they are capable on running their own business, but they are highly motivated, get up and do type individuals.

MC: What are Maid2Clean’s goals for the next 12 months?MH: To continue the development of the brand portfolio and to expand further into new international markets.

MC: What LCs really distinguishing about your franchise?MH: Well one thing that’s quite unique about our brand is that everyone who has come to term on their franchise agreements with us as requested maximum extensions to date. We are very proud of that as we believe that it speaks volumes that franchisees are making money and are happy being with us.

MC: Do you consider yourself an expert regarding cleaning franchises? MH: Absolutely not. Maid2clean is not a cleaning franchise it’s a management franchise in the cleaning sector. I would say that we hold expertise in the sector that is second to none.

MC: What are the biggest challenges facing the industry right now? MH: There is no singular outright lead a in the market today as we have quite a distributed array of franchise offerings. That said I’m not sure if there are any franchises in our sector ahead of ourselves

at this time. If they were they’d need to have in excess of some 13,000 domestic cleaners working for them.

MC: Given the current direction of the industry where do you see Maid2Clean in the future? MH: Still as the leading brand in the market place and further differentiating its superior brand offerings from that of the competition.

MC: What advice would you give to a budding entrepreneur looking for a franchise? MH: Be careful out there. Conduct your due diligence carefully and make sure you buy a business, not a job!

MC: Anything else you would like people to know about Maid2Clean? MH: Only that if people are genuinely interested in owning their own long-term residual income asset and they should be talking to us and if their present location is available they should consider coming and viewing the business with their own eyes and if they like what they see apply for a franchise.

MC: Mike Hanrahan, Franchisor of Maid2Clean thank you for your time


Phone: 0845 257 0677Web: www.maid2clean.co.uk



ISSUE NO 3

Countrywide Signs has designed a very easy to use board management system, even for those with little or no computer experience. By computerising the system, we have been able to vastly increase efficiency, and reduce customer error. Now Estate Agents and Franchise Owners can just log in, quickly and easily. We are at the forefront of web based board and business management systems in our sector and are continually developing new products to enhance profitability.

Countrywide Signs provides Estate Agents with a very valuable professional service – supplying, erecting and maintaining their “For Sale” signs. A straight forward concept, but a task which properly carried out is of exceptional importance. Every single property on the market needs one!

Why Choose Countrywide Signs?

IT Systems

Signs across the country

The National CompanyProviding a Local ServiceAcross the UK and Ireland

email: [email protected] tel: 03 300 100 100



ISSUE NO 3

Countrywide Signs is a multi-van management franchise. The franchise is rare in that the business model actively encourages franchise owners into a situation where they 'work on their business' rather than being stuck 'working in the business'.

The Countrywide Signs service is as simple as following the proven system to erect, maintain and take down estate agent's sign boards. Countrywide Signs lead the UK Estate Agent Sign Board Management market place. We are the only company to operate to ISO 9001 quality standards and have the most advanced Online Sign Board Management System. We believe that our franchise offering exceeds that of the competition.

The aim of having a Countrywide Signs franchise is to grow from 1 owner operated van in year 1, generating a turnover of

around £3,000 per month (60-65% profit), to 4-7 vans and up to £500,000 turnover (depending on the potential of your territory). The £26,950 investment is to get your business setup and is one of the most comprehensive packages on the market. The business model is approved by the major high street banks so you can borrow up to 70% of the required investment (subject to status).

The 'franchisor' is in fact a team of franchisees, so their motivation is aligned with yours, to make the business the best it can be for the franchisees benefit. Unlike most franchises the whole business has been developed for the franchise owners benefit, so there is complete transparency and accountability.

Our commitment to continually developing our online systems keeps your business one step ahead of the competition. Our unique computerised sign board management system and fully automated administration system both increase the efficiency of your business giving you more time to and allow you to spend more time actually working!

Your success is highly important to us and we have developed a comprehensive schedule of training and ongoing support to ensure you are equipped with the skills and knowledge you need to run and develop your Countrywide Signs franchise. Delivered by one of our vastly experienced Countrywide Signs team you will be fully trained in all aspects of the business, including sales, marketing, operating procedures and administration. Sales, marketing and operational support continues throughout the first 18 months.

The Countrywide Signs Management Team are totally dedicated to operating an ethical business. All of the Management Team are former highly successful franchisees from within the business. Countrywide Signs is a Full Member of the BFA (British Franchise Association).

Franchising with Countrywide Signs

Friends Colin Lancaster and Gary Millen have different aspirations for their businesses. Gary hopes to build a network of vans and a workforce, while Colin wants a smaller operation that will give him an excellent quality of life and the flexibility to watch his children grow up.

"After 19 years of working in the banking industry as a Business Manager for Lloyds TSB I began looking for a new challenge. I liked the idea of franchising and working with a proven business model because I could spend more time running the business and less time learning the ropes."

MORE INFO?MORE INFO?To find out how we can help you to make the right choice for you contact us todayTo find out how we can help you to make the right choice for you contact us todayPhone: 03 300 100 100Email: [email protected]

CASE STUDYColin Lancaster & Gary MillenCountrywide Franchise Owners

“Our aim is now to help you grow your business by using our proven methods.”

Alex Clark Lettings has built a formidable reputation and from its base in Cheltenham has become one of the UK’s leading residential letting companies.

At Alex Clark Lettings we have not only spent years developing our format but we have proved that it works. The success of our business is testament to the fact. Our aim is now to help you grow your business by using our proven methods. We offer two options to start you on the road to success:

Option 1 Home-based: Initial Franchise Fee £10,500 + VAT Offering a lower entry fee while still giving you all the training and support required for you to succeed.

Option 2 Premises-based: Initial Franchise Fee £15,500 + VAT The traditional route via high-visibility, low-cost office premises

01242 [email protected]



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ISSUE NO 3

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