David John goes on to say, “The entire soft shades range is known for its quality, which you just don’t see in competitors’ products. There is a long list of features available from fabric colours, textures and opacities to energy efficiency and operating systems. “Best of all, the products are custom made so there is no need to hold any inventory which means no need for stock management and no headaches about out of date stock.” Being part of the Luxaflex Window Fashions Gallery program not only means access to exclusive and innovative products but also exclusive promotions. There is also the benefit of the ongoing advertising and public relations program, which is designed to ensure that the Luxaflex Window Fashions brand continues to reach its potential in the Australian market. David reflects, “Before the business even opened, I received expert advice on local signage and how to market to the local community. As well as having templates for local advertising and public relations, the business also benefits from all of the national activity. It’s great to see the brand consistently featured in all of the top home and lifestyle publications.” As training is such a focus of the program, emphasis is placed on continuous training on a multitude of topics. “The focus is always on delivering a unique experience for the consumer, so as well as receiving ongoing customer service and sales training, we are also kept up-to-date with new product developments and overseas trends. Other training focuses on how to handle human resources in a small business and tips on how to enjoy a work/life balance; all valuable resources for a business our size. “Ultimately, the benefit is that I get to run my own independent business with just the right amount of support – which is always available when needed. I’ve hired a great local team and am assured of exclusive access to a marketing territory. I enjoy the peace of mind of being backed by a luxury and successful brand such as Luxaflex Window Fashions,” David concludes. Jenny Brown, Marketing Manager for the Luxaflex Window Fashions Gallery program discusses other upcoming benefits of the program. “A highlight of the year for the program includes the annual conference, with locations chosen to encourage networking and give each of the hardworking businesses a well-deserved break. Last year’s conference was held in Fiji, with the next
conference due to be held on the Gold Coast in August. “The conference delivers intense business training as well as an overview of the new products and marketing initiatives for the next 12 months. The time is also taken to recognise the performance and success of each of the businesses. There is a gala awards evening where prizes such as the ‘Gallery of the Year’ winner are awarded. Members of the 500/1 Million Club are also applauded,” states Jenny. Being part of the program also provides eligibility for the Luxaflex Windows to the World Travel Incentive program. Jenny goes on to say, “As part of the Travel Incentive program, each business is given an individual sales target goal which they must achieve in order to qualify for the five star holiday of a lifetime. More than 270 people from companies all over Australia travelled to Europe in 2009, declaring the program a resounding success. It was the eighth time the World Travel Incentive program has run over the last 12 years. In previous years, winners have visited South Africa, Mexico, Alaska, Greece, Thailand and Singapore. The program is clearly the market leading incentive program in the window coverings industry. The next incredible destination will be South America in 2012.” Hunter Douglas is also one of the most technologically advanced companies in the window fashions industry. At the backend of the Luxaflex Consumer Website is an online gallery dealer portal - a secure online resource and e-learning centre for every business owner. Each gallery dealer can access the portal directly to retrieve their sales leads, access up-to-date product information and training manuals, plus much more. “Each gallery dealer also has their own
unique URL directing consumers to their personalised six page mini-website, which is an effective mechanism for promoting their services and products online. “As you can see, there are many benefits of being a part of the Luxaflex Window Fashions Gallery program. You get to build your own independent business, while relying on the support and training that is provided. There are never any guarantees when starting your own business, but being part of our program certainly means that you have every chance of achieving success,” concludes Jenny Brown. Luxaflex Window Fashion Gallery territories are still available in selected parts of Australia. To find out more call Mark Futeran at: Phone: Email: Web:
02 9638 8000 mark.futeran@hunterdouglas. com.au www.luxaflex.com.au
Business Franchise Australia 61