Sep/Oct 2016 Feature - Spring is in the Air!

VOL 10 ISSUE 06 sept/oct 2016

KICK BACK & ENJOY LIFE

with groutpro

Spring

is in the air

spring clean your way to success

40 Business Franchise Australia and New Zealand

Contents

50

On the Cover Image: Grout-Pro Australia

44 Cover story: Grout-Pro Australia

Kick Back & Enjoy Life

54

46 Feature: Spring is in the air 50 Expert advice: Tania Allen, Vision Alliance

Spring Clean Your Way to Success

40 Flower Power Professional Garden Care 42 What’s New! Feature news 53 Rent with Style

62

54 Franchisor in Depth: Jim’s Building Maintenance 58 Expert Advice: Emily Manley, HR Central

Spring Clean your HR

61 Clean Green Strata 62 Profile: OZ Bin Cleaning 64 Expert Advice: Bob Beaumont, Beaumont Tiles

Bob’s Business Tips for Potential Franchisees

66 Franchisor in Depth: V.I.P. Home Services Fencing & Home Maintenance

A regular of Business Franchise Magazine, our special supplement in franchising showcases a different industry each issue To share your specific expert industry advice or to feature your franchise in the next issue, please contact: Kathleen Lennox, Sales & Marketing Manager Phone: 03 9787 8077 Email: kathleen@cgbpublishing.com.au

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what’snew!

Swimart splashes out at awards ceremony presentations. Rugby league legend Wayne Pearce also presented an enlightening personal development course which was very well received.

Big category Australasian winners at the 2016 Swimart Awards included Swimart Charmhaven on the NSW Central Coast, which picked up the Australasian Franchisee of the Year for the second year running; Swimart Cleveland in QLD, which was named Marketer of the Year; Swimart Rockhampton – Retailer of the Year; Swimart Brighton in Victoria for Best Sales Growth of the Year; and Swimart Pakuranga in New Zealand, which took out the award for Best Presented Business.

At the 2016 Swimart Awards, held in Cairns, Swimart’s ambassador, Olympic swimmer Susie O’Neill (aka Madam Butterfly), was on hand to congratulate the top performers at the black tie event held at the Shangri-La Hotel in Cairns.

“These awards recognise franchisees who have really proven their mettle across business and customer service parameters,” explains Chris Fitzmaurice, Swimart Australasian manager.

“Winning an award is a pinnacle achievement and it’s testament to the work that our franchisees put in during the year.”

Besides securing the top award of Australasian Franchisee of the Year (for the second year in a row), Swimart Charmhaven also won NSW/ ACT Best Presented Business, NSW/ACT Best Sales Growth Franchise and NSW/ACT Franchisee of the Year.

Thirty-three awards were presented to Swimart franchisees from across Australia and New Zealand. The awards night concluded a week-long conference, which covered all aspects of the business, from marketing, sales, customer service tips and hints, workshops, a trade show to supplier education

Andrew Morton, co-owner of the Swimart Charmhaven store, says that they do lots of smalls things well, so that the sum of the whole part adds up to more. “A key to our success is our fantastic, long serving staff who we trust to do their best for the business and for our customers,” says Andrew.

Innovation Meets Opportunity at NFC16 Founder and Chairman of V.I.P. Home Services, Bill Vis is one of the speakers at this years’ National Franchise Convention.

Bill Vis began the company from humble beginnings in 1972 when he mowed lawns as a secondary income.

In 1979, V.I.P. was the first to franchise in home services and today V.I.P. is one of the largest and longest running franchises, with over 1100 franchisees working in lawns and garden maintenance and home and commercial cleaning across Australia and New Zealand.

Recognised for his work in introducing franchising to the home service industry, Bill was inducted into the Franchise Council of Australia Hall of Fame in 2003.

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The 2016 National Franchise Convention (NFC16) will be the meeting place for inspiration, motivation and thought leadership on all things franchising. The NFC is the largest event of its kind in Australia, bringing together franchisors and their executive teams, along with suppliers and experts in the sector.

Join hundreds of Australian franchisees and franchisors at the National Convention Centre, Canberra, 9-11 October. Don’t miss your chance to celebrate the successes of the industry’s brightest stars of 2016 at the MYOB FCA Excellence in Franchising Awards Gala Dinner, the networking event of 2016.

To find out more about the NFC16 program and to register visit www.nationalfranchiseconvention.org.au now.

Canberra Retail Institution Announces Franchising Plans After 38 years of helping customers bring authentic Italian flair to their homes, Cirillo Lighting and Ceramics has announced plans to franchise.

Unlike its competitors Cirillo Lighting and Ceramics is a one-stop shop for people wanting to build or renovate their home. “Our model combines tiles, lighting, bathroom ware, kitchen appliances, tap ware, door furniture and interior design services for a range of budgets,” says Managing Director, Joe Cirillo. “It is this diversified and exclusive product offering that provides franchisees with a business model capable of maximising their return on investment and building capital for themselves and their families.

“Franchising is the next organic step for us,” Joe continues. “The Canberra business is a gem, but with the city’s population under 400,000, further expansion in the ACT is difficult. Additionally, there is a clear gap in the market in other states, as no one is offering a boutique one-stop shop solution. Franchising the business means homeowners in other states can benefit from our model.

“Franchising allows us to partner with genuine business people who share our drive and passion, and who want to establish an outlet in a location that is convenient for them.”

Joe says that, unlike Cirillo’s competition, franchisees are not limited to retail only.

“Our model encourages franchisees to access the B2B market by working with developers,

builders, architects and interior designers,” he says.

Cirillo Lighting and Ceramics has been a family business for three generations, and reflecting and protecting the brand has been central to creating the franchise package.

“We have spent the last two and a half years

perfecting our model,” says Joe. “Initially we put ourselves in the position of prospective franchisees and we have created a financially sound offering with an attractive payback return period. And because the branding of the business is our priceless family name, we will always do everything we can to support the efforts of our franchisees.”

expo Connects more people than ever before Famed for making dreams come true since 1987, the Franchising & Business Opportunities Expo connected more people with successful business ideas this year, with a new show in Perth and more visitors and exhibitors at the shows in Sydney, Brisbane and Melbourne.

Fiona Stacey says what stood out for her over the four shows this year from a visitor’s point of view were the quality and range of exhibitors; the number of well-informed and business-ready visitors; and the inspiring and informative seminars presented in each city, including seminars from Poolwerx CEO John O’Brien, and a special guest presentation from

HydroKleen’s Sharon Jurd at Brisbane “Each city hosted an Expo that showcased thriving Australian and international companies, all eager to share their success with potential investors and franchisees, or to assist and advise them in their journey,” she says.

“The shows proved once again that the Franchising and Business Opportunities Expo is the best place to take the first steps towards being your own boss, or growing your business,” says Stacey. “It’s also an event where the industry comes together to educate, inform and network – the place where you can really turn your ambition into action.

“We are now getting ready for another

exciting series of shows in 2017, kicking off in Sydney in March with a return to Darling Harbour. It’s time to start planning to turn your dreams into reality!”

Diary Dates for Franchising & Business Opportunities Expo: Sydney: 24-26 March 2017 at ICC, Darling Harbour Perth: 7 May 2017 at Crown Perth Brisbane: 22-23 July 2017 at Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre Melbourne: 25-27 August 2017 at Melbourne Exhibition Centre

Business Franchise Australia and New Zealand 43

FE ATUR E : spr i ng cl e a n you r h o m e a n d busi n ess

c ov er sto ry: g r o u t pr o

KICK BACK & ENJOY LIFE “Franchisees can choose the hours they wish to work a week! GroutPro franchisees derive the majority of their income from labour, meaning the more you work, the more you earn!”

• Silicone Seal Replacement • Glass Restoration & Protection • Epoxy Grouting.

Do you want to earn great money and have a lifestyle you’ve only dreamed of until now? If so, look no further than GroutPro. A GroutPro franchise offers freedom – freedom from working for somebody else by becoming your own boss and also freedom to spend quality time with your loved ones, doing the things that you love.

BRAND PASSION Owner Geoff Biddle had been working overseas and looking for a business to buy when he first became aware of GroutPro. Returning to Australia and after completing the build of their new home, Geoff’s wife Kath noticed the grout in their living area was starting to look grubby, after just a short space of time. Asking their builder how to remedy it and not receiving any assistance, Geoff and Kath started to look at the different options available to resolve the issue and came across GroutPro. Although originally brought into Australia from New Zealand in 2009, it wasn’t trading well under its original format and

Geoff, seeing that the business was for sale, recognised the huge potential within the system.

Purchasing GroutPro in 2012, and passionate about the brand and the business, Geoff and his team have grown the franchise network to 55, across all states and territories except Tasmania with four more scheduled to complete their training in October.

CUSTOMER SATISFACTION GUARANTEED GroutPro are specialists, not generalists!

Focusing only on tile and grout repair and restoration, GroutPro has the expertise to produce amazing results, without having to rely on other trades. They will take care of your problem from start to finish!

Services offered include: • Tile & Grout Cleaning and Re-Grouting • Tile, Grout & Stone sealing • Slippery Floor Treatment • Bathroom & Kitchen makeovers • Terracotta & Slate Sealing • Grout Colour Sealing – with 89 colours available • Damaged Tile Repairs

44 Business Franchise Australia and New Zealand

Customers choose GroutPro as they have the best range of grout and tile repair services anywhere, making old tiles look like new.

National Franchise Manager Delena Farmer says wherever there are tiles; there is work for a GroutPro franchisee.

“Our generous GroutPro franchise territories have a minimum of 20,000 buildings, made up of homes and businesses.

“We have estimated that franchisees would need to be working over ten years, at 50 hours a week to service the territory, and that isn’t taking into account the new builds and refurbishments within the area or any repeat business.”

Franchisees can choose the hours they wish to work a week! GroutPro franchisees derive the majority of their income from labour, meaning the more you work, the more you earn! However for some franchisees, owning a GroutPro franchise is not about the money, it’s about the lifestyle and freedom that it offers!

“Franchisees make their own bookings so can work around their home life or any other commitments. Need freedom to take the kids to school or footy practice? GroutPro allows you to schedule work around them and gives you the flexibility you’re looking for. We don’t interfere with your day to day schedule,” says Delena.

After completing a small amount of pre-course preparation, new franchisees attend initial training which consists of five intensive days within the dedicated training facility on the Gold Coast, Queensland.

Theory and practical training is completed within a purpose built training centre with simulated bathrooms with large tiled areas. Training covers every service that a franchisee offers within their territory while the theory and practical classroom based modules include operations, service procedures, sales and marketing, IT, administration. Upon completion of training within the class room environment, franchisees are then provided with home study course modules to further enhance the initial training.

GroutPro are seeking franchisees who are excited about running their own business; with the support of a national franchise system behind them.

No previous business or trade experience is required although franchisees must possess a desire to succeed and have great people skills, able to converse with residential customers including families, the affluent, the retired and elderly, property managers, builders, and interior decorators, as well as a wide range of commercial businesses, retail etc. The GroutPro system is designed to give everyday people the necessary skills to run a highly successful business.

THE WHOLE PACKAGE

“GroutPro are seeking franchisees who are excited about running their own business; with the support of a national franchise system behind the.”

Colourseal, Shower glass restoration and sealing products plus GroutPro Tile AntiSlip Treatment.

Unlike many other service industry franchises, GroutPro provides everything you need to get started, all for one price, with no hidden extras. There is a fixed fee structure, which means that no percentage on income is charged. This means that the harder you work and the more you earn, GroutPro doesn’t earn any extra money, it’s all yours!

Alongside this you are also provided with:

For the very low entry cost of just $39,950 plus GST, franchisees receive a comprehensive tool package consisting of a wide variety of trade quality hand tools, specialist imported tile and grout restoration tools, commercial quality wet and dry vacuum and high pressure tile and grout turbo cleaning tools, water injection and extraction, specialised powered grout removal tool, tool chest and sales kit.

• Online computer based Customer Management System;

GroutPro also provide you with enough products to generate sufficient income to earn your entire franchise purchase price back, including Tile & Grout specialised cleaners, tile and grout clear sealers, the exclusive GroutPro Professional Grout

• National Marketing campaign including television segments and brand advertising; • Branded Business Cards, Quote and Invoice Books; • National call centre support providing leads via SMS and email; • Printed Full Colour Brochures and Flyers;

• Online 24 hour sales and support systems;

benchmark and get advice on their quotes, and technical hints and tips amongst many other things. This enables the highly experienced existing network of franchisees to offer new franchisees support and encouragement as they start their franchising journey.

Franchisees get together at least once a year at the annual conference, this year in Parramatta NSW. Training on new products, equipment and techniques that have appeared over the previous 12 month period is given along with new and exciting marketing opportunities and initiatives.

• A launch marketing campaign, worked on within the initial training course – to get you up and running as quickly as possible.

If you’re looking for a rewarding business that gives you the lifestyle you are looking for along with job satisfaction - knowing that, at the end of the day you’ve done a fantastic job and made a big difference to your customer’s homes and businesses then contact National Franchise Manager Delena Farmer now for more information on:

In addition to support from Head Office, franchisees make use of an online forum to share their before and after photos,

0466 638 566 or 07 5515 0118 delena.f@groutpro.com.au www.groutpro.com.au

• A manual of approved and personalised local area marketing material at your disposal; • Uniforms, Dress Shirts and Work Shirts; and

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FE ATUR E : spring clean your ho m e and business

STRUCTURED TRAINING

FEATURE : spr i ng cl e a n you r h o m e a n d busi n ess

46 Business Franchise Australia and New Zealand

Owning your own home or business is part of the big Australian dream. We aspire to it, plan for it and save for it. Then, once we have achieved it, we take a great amount of pride, and spend a significant amount of money, on cleaning, maintaining and improving our most prized possession.

Whether it is cleaning, maintenance, putting in a new pool, trimming the lawn, or even fixing the cracks in the garden path – our homes and businesses are in constant need of attention. Australia’s love of beautiful homes and gardens mean big business. Luckily, for the home and business owner and the vast number of franchises that service these, we often turn to professionals to help us maintain our properties.

“Australians have always been passionate about home renovation and improvements, but even the do-ityourself renovators often require the assistance of professional experts.”

Brands you know and trust As the building, cleaning and landscape jobs required usually take place on our property and in our home, we want someone we know and can trust. A franchisee who lives locally and works for a well-respected brand appeals to us. We know the name of the franchise,

it has most likely been recommended by a neighbour or friend, and once we take the first step and call the local franchisee to install our kerbs or repair our roof, chances are we put their business card on our fridge and call them every time we have a similar project or repair. This is assuming they deliver a high quality product with the best customer service.

The domestic and commercial building, maintenance, cleaning and landscape industry has adapted to consumer demand.

People are busier today than ever before.

They have less time for maintenance and small projects around the home or workplace. It is easier for people to contract out the jobs to capable businesses than spend the time and money trying to do it themselves. This has resulted in a growth market for small business owners, including franchisees, to step in and complete these tasks once done by homeowners and business owners themselves.

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Spring is in the air

FEATURE : spr i ng cl e a n you r h o m e a n d busi n ess

“The domestic and commercial building, maintenance, cleaning and landscape industry has adapted to consumer demand. People are busier today than ever before. They have less time for maintenance and small projects around the home or workplace.”

With so much money being spent on property renovation and maintenance, as well as cleaning, gardening and landscaping, the franchises that offer these services are thriving. If working with your hands appeals to you and you have background in building, construction, gardening or other trade related skills, or you have just decided it is time for a change, the opportunities available in this sector of franchising are nearly limitless.

There is a franchise system to cover nearly every area of the building, cleaning and landscape industry. Specific franchise systems include, but are certainly not limited to, kerb installation, building maintenance and safety, home waterproofing, shed construction, pavement crack repair, antenna installation, mowing, fencing, roofing and landscape maintenance.

Add to this the professional services of mortgage brokers, real estate agents and property inspectors and there is certainly a wide market appeal.

Following is a snapshot of a few of the franchise systems working within these industries who feature in this issue of Business Franchise magazine:

Chem-Dry Australia Chem-Dry is the world’s largest carpet cleaning franchise, and has been helping Australian’s realise their dream of business ownership since 1986. Their unique,

48 Business Franchise Australia and New Zealand

Clean Green Strata Why Clean Green Strata? Simple. They supply the customers from the first minute you start; you earn a guaranteed income with work scheduled year round to suit your situation; you work flexible hours to suit your life; no weekend or night work so more time with the family; fully supported by energetic, experienced management team in a recession proof industry.

Flower Power Flower Power Garden Care Franchisees enjoy a unique edge in the gardening services sector. They are backed by Australia’s largest Garden Centre chain and service the enquiries generated every day from their Garden Centres across Sydney. The brand constantly attracts quality referrals from clients who want more than just mowing, Asking for scheduled garden maintenance, clean-ups, makeovers, turfing, pest and disease management, hedging, pruning, planting, irrigation and mowing - a complete service, not just a mowing service.

GroutPro GroutPro specialises in the after-market care of tiles and grout to homeowners and businesses. Offering a range of professional services from stain protection of new tile and grout installations to their flagship grout ‘colourseal’ application which rejuvenates and recolours old grout saving customers time and money without having to re-tile.

Specialists use GroutPro’s own branded range of professional quality products including cleaners, sealers, tile Anti-Slip treatments and shower glass restoration and sealer coatings.

Jim’s Building Maintenance Jim’s Building Maintenance, part of the Jim’s Franchising Group, are looking for persons with trade experience to join their team. If you are motivated and want to success, strive to grow or have your own business and work the hours that suit you then Jim’s Building Maintenance is for you, with both Regional Franchisor and Franchisee territories available.

Oz Bin Cleaning OZ Bin Cleaning is Australia’s largest and fastest growing bin cleaning business. Since cleaning their first bin in October 2001, OZ has revolutionised the bin cleaning market.

OZ commenced franchising in 2005 and has

“A steady rise in home-building approvals, has led to increased building activity, and outstanding opportunities for construction and design companies to take on franchise partners.” a simple proven business model and unique mobile bin cleaning units built locally that clean all sizes of bins. The business is easy to operate, mobile, requires low overheads, with ongoing repeat income and most areas have an existing client base to get you started.

Poolwerx Poolwerx are the leading global after-market swimming pool retailer and service company.

Their history of innovation is multi-awarded in franchising and the industry. With proven systems, industry best buying power and proved systems and support.

Rent with Style

Australians have always been passionate about home renovation and improvements, but even the do-it-yourself renovators often require the assistance of professional experts.

Recent Australian Bureau of Statistic figures show the trend in home renovations is increasing and that the sector is currently valued at around $550 million.

The cleaning services industry expects an increase of 2.2 per cent for the year with expected projections of $4.3 billion, according to IBISWorld

Building towards a brighter future

Rent with Style is a proven rental business supplying affordable home appliances, furniture and electronics items. It is easy and very affordable to start your own Rent with Style franchise business. All you need is a phone, computer and vehicle branded to your business and you are up and running.

Grab your own territory and start servicing clients immediately, you will be helping clients get access to house hold items and technology using a proven rental business model.

One of the biggest appeals toward this type of franchise for many new and potential franchisees is the fact that you get to enjoy the flexibility of making your own hours and you spend a great deal of your time outdoors.

V.I.P. Home Services Fencing & Home Maintenance

In buying a franchise, the difficult side of establishing the business and developing operational procedures has already been done for you.

V.I.P. Home Services – Fencing and Home Maintenance is a newly launched division that is part of the iconic V.I.P. Home Services group. A unique opportunity with affordable franchise Opportunities NOW availablein Melbourne and Victoria in Fencing or Home Maintenance. Support includes initial training; ongoing coaching and mentoring; comprehensive Cloud based IT systems; national and local marketing and much, much more.

Growth sectors The $3.5 billion building industry is one that is leading the way. A steady rise in home-building approvals, has led to increased building activity, and outstanding opportunities for construction and design companies to take on franchise partners.

The market for home improvements in Australia is also big business. Many of us are feeling the pinch of rising costs of living coupled with uncertainty within the real estate market, and are choosing to renovate rather than move.

Although there is the administration side of things, bills to be paid, marketing strategies to implement and business plans to be reviewed, the majority of your time will be spent on location, helping people to enhance and maintain their homes and their property.

This allows you to get straight to work finding your customers and then delivering top quality products and excellent customer service.

This allows you to choose the particular franchise system that most aligns with your passions, knowing that the demand for your product exists and the tools necessary to find, generate and keep your customers are already in place.

So in considering a career in the building, cleaning and landscape sector of franchising... remember it is just as important to build relationships, build trust with your customers and build your business with the assistance of the franchisor.

Franchising is not a guaranteed path to success, but it is however a solid formula, based upon tried and tested systems, that can pave the way for the right franchisee to achieve success.

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hot-carbonated water extraction method, combined with best in-class products and services, and unparalleled training and support, make it impossible to find a better cleaning franchise opportunity.

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e x per t a dv i c e

Spring Clean Your Way to Success

“If you do what you’ve always done. You will get what you’ve always gotten.”

We’ve heard Tony Robbins say it, and many others before him including Mark Twain, Henry Ford and Albert Einstein.

In fact if you were at one of my events earlier this year you would have heard me saying it to a full house of business owners. Saying the words and even hearing or reading the words are one thing, but what do they actually mean and how can you change things up a bit if you’re not happy with your current results or you would like to shake things up, drive your business forward and get the results you deserve.

As human beings, we are creatures of habit and unless we make a continual conscious decision to do things differently and make a commitment to taking consistent actions towards what it is we want, it’s no wonder

many business owners become stuck, are working harder than ever before and are frustrated with slow or no real progress.

spirit. The challenge is not many have made a commitment to actually doing it and sticking to it.

Every year just before Spring hits, many of us find the urge to purge. Known as spring cleaning, it’s about clearing out the old to make way for the new. We all know how good it feels to spring clean our home, but when it comes to our business or our personal life, it’s not something that really takes priority. We all know the benefits of spring cleaning and the spiritual gurus and feng shui experts insist we would all be far better off if we put ourselves first, cleared, rested and restored our mind, body and

This new financial year I made the decision to do things a little differently. First I was to start the new financial year off with a welldeserved holiday. Alone. Yes that’s right. The purpose was to completely “spring clean” my mind and restore and recharge my batteries.

Whilst many a business owner was frantic, worrying about financial year end and roll over into the new financial year, I was walking along the coastline of the Sunshine Coast of Australia. Reading, walking, even having cat naps. Did I do a lot of thinking?

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Tania Allen | Founder | Vision Alliance

Time to Reset Your Mindset.

I’ve heard some people of late claiming to be business growth experts and suggesting it’s not about mindset it’s all about the model.

I have to disagree. No matter how many systems and frameworks you have in place to follow, if you don’t have the right attitude and mindset you simply won’t be putting your best foot forward every day or worse still you won’t be putting any foot forward at all. Take some time to do a quick mindset check right now.

How are you feeling right now? Are you consumed with positive or negative selftalk? Do you find yourself blaming and complaining more or are you the opposite?

Creating a new mindset for success is about creating new thoughts, habits and new behaviours. Before you can create new thoughts, habits and behaviours you must be first aware of your most dominant thoughts, habits and behaviours. Awareness gives you choice and it’s choice that empowers you to take whatever actions are needed to make long lasting change. #SuccessTip: Start being aware of your current thoughts, habits and behaviours. Be honest with yourself about the automatic negative thoughts and self-talk that are possibly holding you back. Stop telling yourself stories, that something in your life today is preventing you from achieving what you want tomorrow.

Of course I did. This week was exactly what I needed to lay some new foundations for what my team and I will be working to achieve over the coming twelve months.

Now you may not be able to take a week off right now however I would encourage you to schedule your breaks away (even if they are just short breaks) for the next 12 months and make them a priority. Make you a priority and not just your business.

Let’s explore some great practices that that can be easily integrated into your business and your life that will help you go from surviving to thriving in no time.

Rejuvenate, Regenerate, Restore.

I’m often amazed at how much “time off” successful entrepreneurs have each year. I’ve been lucky enough to spend time with many and the secret to much of their success is how much time they allocate to restoring and recharging their own batteries and spending quality time with the family. #SuccessTip: Schedule your holidays for the year first then fit your business priorities around you. You will be surprised at how much you can still achieve in the year and you get to balance it with some time off too.

It’s all in your head. Start to make new choices. Change old beliefs with new ones.

Take new consistent actions. Repeat this for a few weeks and see the change it makes.

Adopt New Daily Rituals.

Now I’m not getting all spiritual on you however maybe I need to. Studies show that if you meditate for a minimum of 30 minutes in the morning before you do anything else you will be more productive, feel more energised and have more clarity on working on purpose. If you’re like most business owners, myself included until just recently, your morning routine may start off with waking up and looking at your iPhone and checking Facebook, social media or your emails.

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“Most open their eyes and before they even get out of bed they reach for their phone.

Don’t let this be you. If you’re jumping into your inbox you’re diving into a day of other people’s agendas.”

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e x per t a dv i c e

“Know you can achieve the business and life you want. It starts with setting your intentions, clearing out the clutter, the rubble, the toxicity and the distractions, adopting new thoughts, behaviours and actions and of course making a commitment to do whatever it takes.”

If you haven’t heard my definition before it’s worth repeating. Those who are interested will do what is convenient. Those who are committed will do whatever it takes. Which one are you? #SuccessTip: • Consume less news; • Watch less tv;

#SuccessTip: Own your morning. Don’t start in reaction. Most open their eyes and before they even get out of bed they reach for their phone. Don’t let this be you. If you’re jumping into your inbox you’re diving into a day of other people’s agendas. Decide on your morning ritual/s. It could be writing in a gratitude journal, exercising, meditating, improving your mindset, skillset or action set or whatever you choose. Just choose something that serves and support you.

Remove yourself from toxic relationships and get yourself a coach or a mentor.

The people we surround ourselves with have a dramatic influence on our success, so much so it’s absolutely necessary that you remove the toxic people from your life. Never allow bitching, moaning and groaning in your business and your life. When you close the door to the disempowering and negative stuff you will be surprised at how fast things shift for you. l also recommend you find a peer network to support you in achieving your dreams and more importantly you’ve got to have a coach or a mentor. A mentor, a coach or a friend must be someone who accepts a no excuses mentality. Someone who won’t let you be a victim, someone who holds you to a higher standard and won’t let you slip off course to achieving your dreams and goals.

Get Focused and Raise Your Ambitions.

• Stop spending so much time perusing social media; • Use social media strategically - use it to contribute and to create;

You can’t be productive unless you’re motivated and you can’t be motivated unless you raise your ambitions and unless you have a clear vision of what you want to achieve.

• Stop consuming and spending time on meaningless things that are just filling up your life and taking you away from where you want to be;

What keeps most business owners stuck and just surviving is they don’t have a strong enough and compelling enough why. Even if they do they don’t know how to attain it. So get planning, stay focused and on task and you will achieve more than you ever thought possible.

• Remember the 4D’s of effective time management:

#SuccessTip:

Know you can achieve the business and life you want. It starts with setting your intentions, clearing out the clutter, the rubble, the toxicity and the distractions, adopting new thoughts, behaviours and actions and of course making a commitment to do whatever it takes to stay on course.

Lastly, be inspired, be empowered, take action and have an awesome day.

• Wherever you’re at - don’t limit yourself where you are going or what you are wanting to achieve.

• Choose to generate the results you want in your life - no great accomplishment ever came from a small vision.

• You don’t have to start out big you just have to be big enough to start.

• You don’t have to get great to start you just have to start to be great - Zig Ziglar.

Remove the Distractions.

A mentor of mine told me to be absolutely obsessive about this. Just get rid of the distractions and all of them! Achievers remove all the blocks and the distractions and they are very focused on what it is they want. Are you interested or just committed?

52 Business Franchise Australia and New Zealand

Do it | Delegate it | Decide when | Dump it • Journal, write and dream; and • Ask yourself...Who must I become to move towards where I want to be?

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FRA N CHISOR I N DEPTH : J i m ’s B u i l d i n g M a i n t en a n c e

AIM HIGH WITH JIM’S BUILDING MAINTENANCE In an industry with a selection of home maintenance franchise systems on offer, what makes a Jim’s franchise different from the rest?

The Jim’s Group has helped over 3500 franchisees become successful business owners, in business for themselves but not by themselves by offering guaranteed work availability (Pf WG) and no percentage on turnover royalties – meaning that what you earn is all yours!

Jim’s Building Maintenance offers a business model to suit everybody. Franchisees work ‘on-the-tools’ and can nominate the services they wish to provide to their customers, from small repair work to major home renovations, decks, pergolas, kitchen and bathroom renovations, while Regional Franchisors focus on driving the business forward, working as mentors and business coaches for franchisees, as well as running their own franchise.

Growing the maintenance division nationwide, with Regional Franchisors across all states, Theunis’ aim is to make Jim’s Building Maintenance one of the largest divisions in Australia and become the household name for home maintenance.

54 Business Franchise Australia and New Zealand

Australian Divisional Franchisor for Jim’s Building Maintenance, Theunis Terblanche joined the Jim’s Group in 2009. Working as an Electrician since 1975 and Property Developer since 1989, he had been looking for something more and after exploring the different options available, came across the Jim’s Group. Theunis’ goals include growing the maintenance division nationwide, with Regional Franchisors across all states, and to make Jim’s Building Maintenance one of the largest divisions in Australia and become the household name for property maintenance, residential and commercial alike.

SERVICES OFFERED Franchisees are in charge of the services that they offer, undertaking the work they are qualified or trained to do. Specialising in key areas, training is also available to expand the range of services offered over time.

Services undertaken can include:

Repairs and maintenance All general maintenance including running repairs, window and door replacement as well as replacing and installing new locks, brick work, laserlite replacements, plastering, patching and painting, tiling, eave repairs, shelving for garages, anti-slip flooring solutions, fly screens, PVC shades, installing floating shelves, picture hanging and much more.

Major repairs Kitchens, bathrooms, disability modifications, plastering, water damage, repair or replacements.

Carpentry Minor and major repairs to decks and pergolas including new, eave and timber repairs, door replacements and installations, DIY assemblies, skirtings and flooring.

Restorations and upgrades Refits, facelifts and makeovers.

Point of sale installations Assemble, fit or hang in multi locations.

Prepare home for sale or auction Facilitation of entire job from start to finish.

Storm damage repairs All around and inside properties.

Jim’s Building Maintenance, as well as providing maintenance services to homeowners, extend their services to commercial properties and can assist with the refit of offices or shops; working in partnership with body corporate and real estate agencies if needed.

BECOMING A FRANCHISEE Jim’s Building Maintenance is looking for tradespersons that have a positive outlook on life. As your customers are predominately homeowners, franchisees should have an easy going nature, be prompt, trustworthy, pleasant to deal with and have great verbal and written communication skills. Selfmotivated and ambitious, you must be prepared to start low and aim high.

Experience in running your own business, either building maintenance or a related trade alongside sales, marketing and customer service skills may make you an ideal candidate to join this successful Jim’s franchise.

Excellent Income Within your exclusive territory, and due to the strength and brand recognition of the Jim’s Group, franchisees can expect to be busy most of the time.

A Pay for Work Guarantee (Pf WG) of $1200 per week, including GST, is available to all new Jim’s Building Maintenance franchisees within the first 12 months. This means that should you request and not receive work to this value, your Regional Franchisor will make up the difference in work or in exchange provide for you free promotional services designed to promote and build your business.

Many franchisees earn well in excess of this Pay for Work Guarantee (Pf WG), with a competent franchisee earning in excess of $2,200 per week, excluding GST.

Franchise fees consist of a monthly base fee, plus a lead fee. The lead fee is charged once, only on each new lead requested by, and sent to you. This is a ‘user pays’ system, with those taking more leads paying higher fees. Unlike other franchise systems, Jim’s do not charge a percentage of your income or a fee on personal referrals or walk up clients – meaning the harder you work, the more money you make. The money you earn from referrals or direct sales, along with any profit on materials purchased is all yours!

Training and Support Becoming a Jim’s Building Maintenance franchisee gives you access to some of the most comprehensive training in the industry. This includes Business Planning, Sales and Marketing, Time Management, Communications, WH&S and how to successfully manage your business.

Initial franchisee training is completed at the Jim’s Group National Training Centre, located in Melbourne. This covers areas such as bookkeeping, customer service and sales, as well as learning about the Jim’s Group ethos.

Once the Jim’s classroom training is completed, franchisees are then on the road, with ongoing access to training. Through HIA or MBA membership you will have the opportunity to obtain any trade licenses by attending workshops and training classes, all designed to make you more competent and successful in the running of your business.

Jim’s Building Maintenance also has a joint venture agreement with a training college where franchisees can obtain their specific qualification through RPL and on site assessment.

Business Franchise Australia and New Zealand 55

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“Franchisees are in charge of the services that they offer, undertaking the work they are qualified or trained to do.”

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FRA N CHISOR I N DEPTH : J i m ’s B u i l d i n g M a i n t en a n c e This enables the Jim’s Building Maintenance franchisee to gain traction due to the existing local brand recognition; an incredible 94 per cent of the population know and trust Jim’s franchisees. In this day and age of multiple trades and services, customers like to know that they are dealing with a recognised company who offer a 100 per cent guarantee on all the work they complete.

TAKING THE NEXT STEP If becoming a franchisee or Regional Franchisor sounds of interest or you would like more information, Jim’s Building Maintenance encourages you to: • Meet and have a chat with either the Divisional Franchisor or a Regional Franchisor who looks after the region in which you live. This will allow you to discuss the different options and fee structures available.

Existing franchisees and Regional Franchisors within each state are available to offer support and provide guidance; mentoring and motivating you to become a successful business owner.

BECOMING A REGIONAL FRANCHISOR The role of a Regional Franchisor within the Jim’s Group is a crucial one. Regional Franchisors drive the growth of the business within their region, both in terms of work generation and franchise recruitment to meet the demands of customers.

Theunis says, “Regional Franchisors are the driving force of Jim’s Group – without Regional Franchisors of the highest calibre we cannot reach the levels of growth to which we are aspiring.”

Skills required to become a Regional Franchisor include a sound knowledge of the building and/or handyman industry, excellent business and communication skills and the ability to market your own business, both to generate work (if working on-thetools) and also recruit new franchisees into your area.

Jim’s Building Maintenance are looking for franchisors in most of the states to start their own regional business and get new franchisees on board, there are also existing regions available where you can just step in and earn a steady income from existing franchisees. This doesn’t stop you expanding and signing up more franchisees, we recommend that you as a franchisor grow the business bigger.

Different income streams The benefit of being a Regional Franchisor is that apart from the fee income you receive from your franchisees, currently around 80 per cent, you also have the ability to receive income from granting franchises, which is around 80 per cent of all new franchise sales.

This generates a considerable extra income stream up front, alongside the monies earned if you are operating your own Jim’s Building Maintenance franchise.

JIM’S GROUP – POWER OF THE BRAND Founded in 1989 as a part-time gardening business while Jim Penman completed his PhD in history, Jim’s Group is Australia’s largest franchise system, with over 3,500 franchisees in 42 different divisions. It also operates in New Zealand, Canada and the UK. The strength of the Jim’s Group often lends buying power for national deals. This means Jim’s Building Maintenance franchisees are able to enjoy significant savings on work vans, mobile phone deals, insurance, fuel discounts and more.

Jim’s Building Maintenance gets to leverage off the other divisions who are also out every day in customers’ homes and backyards. While each Division has a dedicated marketing team and website, all Jim’s franchisees are encouraged to crosspromote the other divisions, using local area marketing.

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• Arrange a Trial Day. This is the best way to see what owning a Jim’s franchise is all about. You’ll work alongside another franchisee and experience a typical working day.

• Arrange an obligation free meeting. After your day in the field and you are sure you want to proceed, this is your opportunity to discuss your territory purchase in more detail and also look at the Jim’s Franchise Manual to see what is covered. This ensures you can meet with your advisors and see ‘inside’ the full Jim’s business structure.

• Discuss everything with your advisors.

The Jim’s franchise model is very successful and welcomes the scrutiny of experts. Make full use of your lawyer, accountant or business broker to read the Franchise Agreement and Disclosure Document and equally important, you should understand what you are signing up for, so do your own homework too!

• Final meeting. You will be issued with the formal set of franchise documents and once you have paid your deposit and training fee you can travel to Melbourne to commence the Jim’s Building Maintenance Induction Course and book in your launch date. Congratulations!

If you want to be your own boss, earn a good income and have the flexibility to choose the hours YOU want to work, take holidays when you want, contact Divisional Franchisor Theunis Terblanche at Jim’s Building Maintenance for more information.

131 546 theunis@jimsbuildingmaintenance.com.au www.jimsbuildingmaintenance.com.au

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SPRING CLEAN YOUR HR Spring is upon us! What better time to review your people processes? There are a myriad rules and regulations for franchisees to be aware of, especially when it comes to the hiring and managing of people.

Franchisees are often caught up in the day to day running of their businesses and dealing with immediate employee challenges and issues and it can be tempting to let things slide, but this can lead to very costly mistakes. I have always found it perplexing that businesses frequently conduct financial audits, however reviewing HR processes is often something that is pushed to the bottom of the list.

Compliance and dealing with employee issues are probably the two most challenging areas for a small business. There are numerous federal, state and local workplace laws that cover both these areas. Laws cover requirements such as how to store employee files, how to administer leave, when to pay overtime, requirements for classifying exempt and non-exempt employees, how long a meal break must be and more.

Running a business is all consuming and there are countless distractions that take your time and attention away – it’s the old adage that business owners are ‘too busy working in the business to work on the business’. It doesn’t have to be that way though. With a bit of planning and consideration, you can improve your business’s HR processes and the satisfaction of your employees – which will save you time and money in the long run.

To get you started, consider the following questions in the context of your business:

58 Business Franchise Australia and New Zealand

• How do we attract people? Are our attraction strategies working (i.e. are we getting good people into the business)? If not, why not? Should we consider more innovative sourcing methods such as employee referrals, career fairs or social media?

• Do we have a thorough training and induction process? Are our employees made familiar with key policies that will protect us if we find ourselves in a precarious legal situation?

• Do we have robust contracts of employment? When were these last reviewed by an expert?

• Are we paying our employees in line with the relevant award rates? Are we across other provisions of the award such as overtime, meal and break requirements?

• Do we measure our employee’s performance and have regular and meaningful performance conversations?

FEATURE : spr i ng cl e a n you r h o m e a n d busi n ess Do our employees know what they need to do to be successful in their role?

• Do we provide employees with sufficient training and development opportunities?

• Are our employees happy and engaged when at work? Are they turning up on time, with a smile and telling their friends that it is a great place to work? If not, do we know why?

• Do we have someone to call when we have an issue we are not sure how to deal with?

If we have an employee whose conduct is inappropriate, who is not performing, or who is constantly on sick leave do we know what to do?

Your answers to the above questions will give you a feel for the current state of your HR function. With small steps and the help of experts, you can quickly improve this area. One of the most important aspects of running any sized business is developing a sound human resources strategy that works for the individual company. This helps with efficiency, morale, cost management, and the ongoing continuity of your business practices.

There are some simple ways to ensure your

“With a bit of planning and consideration, you can improve your business’s HR processes and the satisfaction of your employees – which will save you time and money in the long run.”

Emily Manley | HR Specialist | HR Central

HR function is robust and compliant: • Develop an HR manual: with a suite of comprehensive policies to ensure compliance with legislation and consistent communication about business rules and practices. This manual will become your business’s bible and a key reference document for employees when they are unsure of a business rule or practice. It also provides you with an opportunity to reinforce your expectations, values and code of conduct.

• Seek feedback from your employees: feedback from employees can give great insights into your culture and where you might be able to improve the employee experience. You can do this by

surveying your staff or conducting small focus groups to explore key areas of the employment lifecycle.

• Start reporting on key people metrics: staff turnover, time to hire, reasons for leaving – these are all very useful metrics to monitor and allow you to continuously improve.

• Engage an expert: either in-house or outsourced – to provide ongoing or ad hoc support when you need technical expertise. This will give you peace of mind that no matter what happens, you have mitigated the risk of the business being exposed in the event of a claim.

• Ensure you are familiar with the relevant award: Fair Work Australia has a plethora

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of resources on its website including an award finder www.fwa.com.au • Ensure your employees are trained regularly in OH&S, EEO and bullying and harassment so that they are well versed in being able to recognise inappropriate workplace behaviour and know what to do if they are on the receiving end.

• Ask a HR or legal expert to review your employment contracts and ensure they are best supporting the business. This is something that should occur with some regularity as laws and practices relating to employment change often and it is important that contracts are watertight.

The above may sound overwhelming to implement if you do not have a dedicated HR person on staff. If your business is under around 50 employees, you probably don’t need to employ an HR professional on staff.

There are other options for ensuring that your HR is managed well.

The easiest approach is to assign HR duties to a manager or someone else who manages

“Compliance and dealing with employee issues are probably the two most challenging areas for a small business. There are numerous federal, state and local workplace laws that cover both these areas.” the day-to-day operations of the business. It is important that this person attend regular HR seminars. There are a lot of free webinars and low cost local seminars that cover HR topics. Local seminars are a great way to network with people in HR — people who could be a good resource later on when you have an HR question.

you can get on with the job of growing your business.

HR consultants can also provide support to small businesses but regardless of what approach you take to cover your HR needs, including HR as part of your business strategy will ensure compliance with applicable workplace laws. It will also provide a structure for communicating and implementing good workplace practices with employees.

Emily has worked with a diverse range of organisations across a variety of industries during her 14 years of consulting in both the private and public sectors including: Foxtel, Australian Red Cross, NSW Government and Allens – a top tier Melbourne law firm. Emily holds a Bachelor of Business with majors in HRM and Marketing.

Owning or starting a new business can be exciting, but also daunting. However, it doesn’t have to be a nerve-wracking experience. Set up a healthy HR function as an essential tool in your business strategy to save you precious time and money, so

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EMILY MANLEY is an HR Specialist with HR Central, a business that provides Human Resources services and solutions to SME’s and Franchise operations Australia-wide.

If you would like further information regarding your HR, contact: 1300 717 721 info@hrcentral.com.au www.hrcentral.com.au

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pr o fi l e : oz b i n c l e a n i n g

SETTING THE STANDARD “We are committed to investing in innovations that will assist franchisees increase efficiency, service, quality and profitability.”

Founder and first Australian Master Licensee Mark Campbell, OZ Bin Cleaning

Established in 2001 by the founder and first Australian Master Licensee Mark Campbell, OZ Bin Cleaning began franchising in 2006 and has grown substantially to be Australia’s leading bin cleaning company.

Opening in the Northern Beaches in Sydney, Mark says, “We were looking for a new business venture that offered repeat income as one off sales never appealed to me and a service based business allows more scope to build long term business relationships.

“After a lot of brain storming and research, bin cleaning was the winner. Travelling to the UK to undertake research into this entrenched sector over there, I met with VIP Bin Cleaning. That’s where my relationship with VIP commenced and OZ Bin Cleaning was born. Director Mark Harvey had VIP well established as the market leader in the UK and knew the market well. I diligently worked on the Australian model

for over four years, testing and measuring every system till the model was proven and profitable and we commenced franchising in 2006.”

OZ Bin Cleaning provides onsite bin cleaning services; proudly and professionally cleaning all sizes of bins from small wheelie bins to the large metal industrial bins.

Domestic, Commercial, Industrial & Government Bin Cleaning – OZ Bin Cleaning visit sites after the bins have been emptied and clean bins on a regular basis leaving them clean, dry and smelling fresh.

The frequency is set but can be changed to suit the needs of each site. The OZ mobile bin cleaning units can be trailer based or mounted onto a Ute or small truck and are built locally to withstand the harsh Australian climate.

Gary Kellett, who along with wife Mary are the Master Licensees in Queensland, say, “Put simply individuals and businesses dislike smelly germ infested bins. We eradicate the problem by offering a unique service that not only professionally cleans bins but also captures the water used in the cleaning process, providing an environmentally friendly service. Educating

62 Business Franchise Australia and New Zealand

individuals and businesses on the harmful effects of allowing waste water from bin cleaning to enter gutters and storm water drains is ongoing – many unaware it is illegal and a finable offence. The OZ custom built bin cleaning units are completely selfcontained, and carry their own water which is recaptured and recycled within the unit.”

NATIONAL NETWORK Founder Mark and wife Penny are owner/ operators in NSW and VIC, which has nine franchises within the two states.

“There are four Master Licensees and 16 Franchises operating in Australia and large territories are available for franchisees throughout Australia,” says Mark.

Impressed with the opportunity offered, WA Master Licensees Richard and Memory Reay joined OZ Bin Cleaning after owning their own retail garden centre in South Africa for more than 30 years.

Richard says, “OZ Bin Cleaning has complete, effective and efficient systems covering every aspect of the business with comprehensive training available. The 1300 free call numbers, website bookings and enquiries are all handled by the relevant State office and passed onto the relevant franchisee. This allows the franchisee to continue working on their business with the peace of mind that all sales and enquiries are taken care of. Every State has a Master Licensee, who like myself and Memory, is on hand for advice and guidance.

Regular formal and informal get-together’s and meetings provides the OZ network opportunities to collaborate and share experiences.”

SA Master Licensees Ian and Jayne Lamb agree with Richard. “All the OZ Master Licensees are committed to strengthening the OZ brand in their States and increasing coverage to meet demand via selective Franchisee recruitment. Sales have increased exponentially over the last few years, major contracts secured and several franchisees in the group winning local awards.”

Mark finished by saying, “We are committed to investing in innovations that will assist franchisees increase efficiency, service, quality and profitability. The next 12 months will be an exciting time as we grow our franchise network.”

If you would like more information about joining this growing franchise network, contact OZ Bin Cleaning now on: 1300 65 11 65 franchise@ozbincleaning.com www.ozbincleaning.com

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AS AUSTRALIA’S LEADER IN BIN CLEANING SINCE 2001, WE ARE MUCH, MUCH MORE THAN A MULTI-AWARD WINNING BUSINESS. If you are: s ,OOKING TO BUILD A PROlTABLE BUSINESS s 7ANTING A mEXIBLE SCHEDULE TO SUIT YOUR LIFESTYLE s $REAMING OF A BUSINESS WITH LOW OVERHEADS NO RENT REPEAT BUSINESS s 3EEKING TO JOIN AN ESTABLISHED SUCCESSFUL FRANCHISE SYSTEM THAT WILL MINIMISE YOUR lNANCIAL RISK MAXIMISE YOUR RETURN ON INVESTMENT AND PROVIDE YOU WITH MARKET KNOWLEDGE EQUIPMENT SYSTEMS AND PROCEDURES TO GET YOUR BUSINESS GROWING FROM DAY /.% 4HEN /: "IN #LEANING HAS WHAT YOU RE LOOKING FOR DO YOU HAVE WHAT /: "IN #LEANING ARE LOOKING FOR ! SIMPLE UNIQUE CONCEPT WITH SUPPORT AND A TRIED TESTED AND PROVEN BUSINESS MODEL IN A SPECIALISED MARKET THAT IS GROWING EXPONENTIALLY %VERY SINGLE HOME AND BUSINESS IN !USTRALIA HAS BINS AND /: "IN #LEANING PROFESSIONALLY CLEAN ALL SIZES OF BINS NOT JUST WHEELIE BINS 4HE MARKET IS HUGE AND /: "IN #LEANING IS SET FOR THEIR NEXT GROWTH PHASE *OIN THEIR TEAM OF SUCCESSFUL FRANCHISEES AS THEY CONTINUE TO REVOLUTIONISE BIN CLEANING IN !USTRALIA

CALL 1300 65 11 65 | www.ozbincleaning.com

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Bob’s Business Tips for potential franchisees “It’s not just a matter of buying a franchise and expecting the money to roll in - you are starting a business.”

Bob Beaumont | Managing Director | Beaumont Tiles

Finding the right business to invest in is a challenge in itself but when it comes to making the final commitment, the more hurdles could prove the better choice.

About half the Beaumont Tiles’ 108 stores are franchises and both parties – the franchisor and the potential franchisee should undertake plenty of due diligence before joining forces.

It’s not just a matter of buying a franchise and expecting the money to roll in - you are starting a business. A franchisee should understand that the franchisor is only there to provide a brand and system - they are not there to do the work for the franchisee.

On the flip side, the great thing about a franchise is that you are buying into a proven model.

There’s a few business philosophies I’ve learned along the way that can help steer the course.

A franchisee must make money before the franchisor

through that, than the actual welfare of the franchisee.

It’s important both parties make money but it’s more important the franchisee makes money first. This means the franchisor has to have a passionate interest in the welfare – especially the financial - welfare of its franchisees. Conversely, if the franchisor looks to make money first (before the franchisee) they will not have a group for very long.

Pick a franchisor that is picky about you!

Franchisors are not in the business of selling franchisees A franchisor is in the business of a particular product or service and has to be about making their own business healthy. Their business will not work by selling more franchisees if the core product, service and business model is not strong.

If the price is high, the chances are the franchisor is high falutin’ too!

If the cost of a franchise is unreasonably high, the chances are it’s a get rich quick scheme for the franchisor. If they are desperate to sell, with low criteria for entry, then the chances are they are too interested in selling franchises, and profiting

64 Business Franchise Australia and New Zealand

If you’re asked to jump through more hurdles than you expect – for example lots of questions about finances, where the money is coming from to fund it, your experience and motivation - that’s a good thing. It means the franchisor cares. Some franchisees don’t work out - that could happen in any business situation. It’s the franchisors job to catch them before they’re accepted as franchisees.

Be a super sleuth Go and have a word to a number of other franchisees in the group - but not the ones the franchisor suggests – pick your own.

Prepare your questions beforehand. For example, how much support does the group give? What’s the mood of the group like?

Are they interested in you as a business person and not just in their own outcomes?

Are there quality inspections done on the products? What’s the training look like?

Importantly, check the financial health of the franchisor.

FE ATUR E : spr i ng cl e an you r h o m e an d busi n ess

What exactly are you getting?

You need to consider whether what they’re offering is a full system and supply chain or just an idea or product. Business is not just about the brand. The brand is just the start.

Be entrepreneurial Entrepreneurialism is not necessarily about making money. It’s about having a dream and achieving it. Money hopefully is one of the outcomes as is satisfaction. As you grow in your business, a good entrepreneur stands outside him or herself and analyses where the weaknesses lie. They surround themselves with people that are better than them. Be pragmatic in the long term – there is no room for ego.

Bob Beaumont has been at the helm of Beaumont Tiles for 38 years. His philosophy of ‘don’t think big, think huge’ has resulted in a small South Australian business growing into a multi-million dollar enterprise with 108 stores across most of Australia. Bob oversees a company owned and franchised retail model. For him, business success takes drive, vision and risk taking, innovation, uniqueness and a dash of unconventionality.

For more information contact Franchise Recruitment Manager, Marcus Allchin on: 0418 791 088 franchise@tile.com.au www.beaumont-tiles.com.au

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FRA N CHISOR I N DEPTH : V.I.P. H o m e S er v i c es F en c i n g & H o m e M a i n t en a n c e

V.I.P. F&HM strikes Gold - East and West!

Mark Nagyivan

Celebrating their first anniversary on 14th September V.I.P. Fencing and Home Maintenance (V.I.P. F&HM) have had an extremely busy year.

Creating a business that has a warm and friendly environment on all levels and

doesn’t take itself too seriously is nothing new for Warren Smith and Vea Johnston, the V.I.P. F&HM Australian National Franchisors who collectively have nearly 30 years of experience within the franchising industry.

Drawing upon their previous franchising experience, Warren and Vea aim to build a small team of niche operators to become the best in the industry, rather than the biggest. Warren says, “Creating something

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new and vastly different from other offerings in the marketplace was a lot more work than originally anticipated and we officially started offering franchises and master franchises from December 1st. Although December is not traditionally a great time to start any business, we had a fantastic launch and received a very positive reaction to the franchise.�

Since December, after securing their first Regional Master Franchisee (RMF)

sale in Melbourne to Justin Williams and Mariska Pothof, V.I.P. F&HM have achieved greater than anticipated growth, with new franchisees and another RMF sale in Western Australia to Bryan and Karen Buckley.

Offering local support via ongoing regular support calls, initial onsite training, quarterly franchise owner meetings, the introduction of new products and business opportunities, local knowledge and business mentoring, a RMF is either currently operating a successful franchise business, so is “on the tools”, or has in the recent past run a successful fencing or trades business. This means that from the ground up they can give you the valuable advice and support required to make you a success!

With availability nationwide, V.I.P. F&HM offers national and local support, fantastic earning potential, work flexibility, and is affordable for people looking to take that step into becoming a business owner.

EXPERIENCE THE DIFFERENCE Partnering with V.I.P. Home Services Group, which started in 1972 when founder Bill Vis began a lawn mowing round, Warren and Vea bring a wealth of franchising experience to V.I.P. F&HM. Starting as fencing franchisees in May 2001, Warren and Vea have also been divisional franchisors and master franchisors for Fencing, Building Maintenance, Pergolas, and Painting with another franchise group.

After growing the four divisions to 43 Master Franchisors and 300 Franchise Owners, Warren and Vea decided to take a well-earned break.

Warren says, “After returning from our self-appointed break, we bought into a V.I.P. Lawns and Garden franchise. After a short time with V.I.P. and recognising the exceptional way that V.I.P. works, we then approached them to consider us starting a new division. We knew when we left our previous business that there was a heck of a lot more that could be done in order to modernise the industry and bring it into this millennia, which we were not able to do in our previous working life.

“Part of our discussions with V.I.P. Home Services were to outline our vision regarding

Walter & David Toogood

how things could and should be done better and to our utter delight they were very receptive to our ideas.”

Bryan and Karen were looking for future security and decided to start looking for a business.

Incorporating cloud technology into the everyday activities of their RMFs and franchisees has seen V.I.P. F&HM fully embrace the latest technology available, designed to reduce time on the ever consuming administration of any business.

Karen says, “The idea of buying into a franchise compared to starting our own business appealed as we liked the idea of having the support of a franchisor. We were inexperienced as we’d only ever been employees, so we looked at the different options available. We wanted flexibility and something that we could do together and after looking at the different franchise systems available, we also realised that we wanted something that would give us a great lifestyle.

“Our operational and training manuals are not only in print form but online and interactive. Using cloud technology on mobile devices, our franchisees have the information they need, all at the touch of a button.”

Utilising this technology, training is now fully managed online, which not only makes it more accurate but also creates greater consistency.

“Franchisees have their own portal, which includes appointment setting and quoting to name just a few. Using this interactive training and support system, franchisees also have their own interactive library which includes images, video clips and ‘how-to’ guides etc. If they are out on-site and require more information, they can access the library and the information is at their fingertips,” says Vea.

BECOME A BUSINESS OWNER With four tiers of income available, V.I.P. F&HM take people that have never run a business before and turns them into business owners.

Bryan and Karen Buckley became Regional Master Franchisees (RMF) in June, with no previous business experience. Both Karen – a legal secretary – and Bryan – a talented artist working as a mechanical fitter – had been working within the mining industry in Western Australia, on a fly in, fly out (FIFO) basis. After a change of circumstances,

“When joining a franchise, you are buying into a tried and tested formula, utilising the franchisor’s knowledge within your chosen industry. There are plenty of cheap franchises out there that sound too good to be true and upon deeper investigation we found that they usually are!”

Bryan and Karen are excited by the opportunity in front of them and were keen to join V.I.P. F&HM within its first year, getting in at the ground level.

Bryan says, “Warren and Vea have been a great help. The training has been exceptional and very thorough. Having a trade background, I didn’t find the practical training too hard. V.I.P. F&HM have set up a great system and that’s what gave us a lot of confidence in the system as a whole. The cloud-based accounting system takes away the pressure of day to day running of the accounts, which was initially scary to us and the advertising and marketing side of the business is all completed by V.I.P. F&HM which means we can just concentrate on growing our business.”

Surpassing their expectations, Bryan and Karen now have the flexibility they were looking for.

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FEATURE : spr i ng cl e a n you r h o m e a n d busi n ess

“With availability nationwide, V.I.P. F&HM offers national and local support, fantastic earning potential, work flexibility, and is affordable for people looking to take that step into becoming a business owner.”

FEATURE : spr i ng cl e a n you r h o m e a n d busi n ess

FRA N CHISOR I N DEPTH : V.I.P. H o m e S er v i c es F en c i n g & H o m e M a i n t en a n c e

Karen & Bryan Buckley

“Even though the money was excellent, the FIFO lifestyle was terrible. When working FIFO it was really hard to plan anything as you’re only home for a short time; there were a lot of family and friends’ functions missed.

Joining V.I.P F&HM, now we can make plans for the future,” says Bryan.

“Anyone that has the get up and go to work hard in your own business can succeed with V.I.P.,” says Bryan. “We did a lot of research into the different franchises available but we couldn’t find anyone better than V.I.P. “That gave us a lot of confidence and after talking to them, we realised that our success is the most important thing; if we succeed, they succeed. They walk the walk and they are great fun - they treat you like family.

“We’re really excited for the future now, we can see where it’s going, and we’re getting in early on a business that’s growing fast.

Where we are now, is not where we’re going to be in 12 months’ time. We can now put our energy into our own business, and enjoy each day,” finishes Bryan.

YOU’RE NOT ALONE Having spent the last few years as an employee, V.I.P. F&HM franchisee Mark Nagyivan also had experience working

“The idea of buying into a franchise compared to starting our own business appealed as we liked the idea of having the support of a franchisor.” - Karen Buckley within the fencing industry as a small business owner and knows that running your own business can be stressful.

office training which included IT, accounts and administration, Mark then spent just over 6 weeks on site with a franchise trainer.

Wanting to be in business for himself but not by himself and looking for support, flexibility and a work/life balance, after researching the different franchise systems available, Mark decided upon V.I.P. F&HM.

“I didn’t think I would need to learn that much at the beginning due to my previous business ownership but the training I received made me realise just how much I didn’t know.

“As a standalone business owner, I found it difficult to find new customers; you put an ad in the paper and wait, hoping that someone is going to ring you. The ongoing assistance and support from a franchisor with obtaining sales leads really appealed.

When I was doing it by myself, I was also figuring it out by myself.

“I’m making a lot more money than I would working for someone else, and I can work around my children which gives me the flexibility I was looking for. If someone wanted to join, I would say jump in now and don’t waste any time,” finishes Mark.

“Working within the framework of a franchise, you have the support of people that have many years of knowledge and experience; who are working together to help you succeed.

“After speaking to Warren, I realised that they had been interviewing me, rather than the other way round. They weren’t just asking if I had the money in the bank!”

After completing just under two weeks in-

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To join this exciting, supportive and innovative franchise opportunity as a franchisee like Mark, or if like Bryan and Karen, you would like to build a bigger business with residual income and capital growth as a Regional Master Franchisee contact Australian National Franchisor Warren Smith for more information: 13 26 13 warren.smith@vipfandhm.com.au www.vipfandhm.com.au