Elite Franchise Magazine | June 2015

JUNE 2015

The

burger king Tim Lowther has worked for the world’s biggest burger chains. Now he’s continuing his reign as MD of Smashburger, whose first UK store is opening later this year

JUNE 2015

£4.50

EF Cover June.indd 1

28/05/2015 23:15

80% of women claim to have unwanted hair.....

Permanent Hair Reduction using IPL (Intense Pulsed Light Technology) and other aesthetic treatments are a growing market.

No+Vello UK are expanding in this market and are seeking owner operated, or management franchisees who are keen to develop with an internationally successful brand by operating or managing between 1 to 4 centres.

Our ‘Low Cost’* Franchise set-up includes the following: • 3 Month local marketing plan • Marketing & advertising support • Patented IPL & +esthetic LED equipment • Initial stock of products • Premises advice & lease negotiations • All furniture and centre design • Full training & operations manuals • Cloud based software & online booking

For more information call Matthew Simmonds on: 033 3344 0105 or email: ukfranchising@nomasvello.co.uk Novello DPS June 15.indd 1

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& 50% of men that is a massive untapped market Why No+Vello?

With the back up and support of a global organisation together with your desire to run your own business we will help your business become successful from the moment you join our network.

Our passion is your desire to succeed. Our industry leading equipment and treatments together with our flat rate pricing strategy will create loyal customers from the very start. You will have piece of mind from the full support of head office and will be able to advise you on anything from running your business to health and medical advice.

Meet some of our franchise owners Our Franchise Owners are attracted to our brand from all backgrounds. Whether it be owner operated or a management franchise No+Vello has the perfect model.

“Having spoken with owners of other centres, we know that the level of support we have been delighted to receive is the norm not the exception.

And we also know that the support will continue now the centre is open. We couldn’t recommend the No+Vello franchise highly enough.”

Davina Stander – Management Franchisee Fareham *£ 15,000 Franchise Fee+ set up costs & equipment lease. Min. personal investment £22,000

Over

1000

centres in 16 countries

franchise.nomasvello.co.uk Novello DPS June 15.indd 2

28/05/2015 16:27

14

The Elite interview Hannah Prevett gives Smashburger’s Tim Lowther a grilling

4 elitefranchise June 2015

Contents.indd 1

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54

30

60 For your information

Franchises can turn big data into big bucks

7 Editor’s letter 8 Contributors 10 News & events 12 Talking point 80 Franchise diaries

43 A swift exit?

22 First stage

50 Exhibiting yourself

Theatre franchise Razzamataz is giving kids their first taste of the spotlight

It’s important not to rush when selling your franchise network

Franchise shows are a great way to get the word out

30 A picture of health

54 Face to face

37 Accounting for growth

58 Got skills

We look at how health and fitness is ripe for franchising

TaxAssist is on top of the world

67 On your terms New rules on consumer rights can’t be ignored

67

How to get the most out of discovery days

Training franchisees effectively is the key to success June 2015 elitefranchise 5

Contents.indd 2

28/05/2015 22:36

6710 Franchise Ad_Layout 1 20/05/2015 14:57 Page 1

Turn over £988k a year with this management franchise opportunity Entry-level investment from £35,000 (licence fee £30,000) Help available with purchase finance

Our offer to you: Invest in a start-up or an existing business Your own postcodedefined territory National customer contracts with leading companies Comprehensive training and marketing support

Unique software package

Driver Hire is

People like you

Financial returns

• One of the UK’s leading specialist recruiters • A proven franchise with a 30-year record of success • Providing logistics staff to private and public sectors • Over 100 offices, supplying some 3,000 workers per day

• Franchisees from a wide range of backgrounds • No previous knowledge or experience required, but...

• A passion for excellent customer service and the commitment and desire to build a successful, profitable franchised business • 93% of franchisees would buy a Driver Hire franchise again!

• Average full year franchise turnover of £988k in 2014/15 • 37% of offices achieved sales of £1m+ in 2014/15 • Low fixed costs and attractive resale values upon exit • Net profit potential of over £100,000 per annum • Opportunity to boost revenue significantly by offering complementary products

Get in touch to discover more about this fantastic business opportunity.

✆

www.driverhirefranchise.co.uk

01274 361073

franchise@driverhire.co.uk

AWARD WINNER - bfa HSBC ‘Franchisor of the Year’ 2006 and 2012 EliteFranchise0615.indd 1

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VOLUME 03 ISSUE 06 / 2015

SALES Adam Reynolds – Senior Account Manager adam.reynolds@cemedia.co.uk Siobhan Stokes – Account Manager siobhan.stokes@cemedia.co.uk EDITORIAL Hannah Prevett – Editor hannah.prevett@cemedia.co.uk Adam Pescod – Web Editor adam.pescod@cemedia.co.uk Josh Russell – Feature Writer josh.russell@cemedia.co.uk Ryan McChrystal – Feature Writer ryan.mcchrystal@cemedia.co.uk Jade Saunders – Junior Writer jade.saunders@cemedia.co.uk DESIGN/PRODUCTION Leona Connor – Head Designer leona.connor@cemedia.co.uk Rishita Devji – Junior Designer rishita.devji@cemedia.co.uk Dan Lecount Web Development Manager dan@cemedia.co.uk Marketing Kelly Dunworth – Head of Communications kelly.dunworth@cemedia.co.uk Claudia Laing – Marketing Manager claudia.laing@cemedia.co.uk Lucy Jones – Marketing Assistant lucy.jones@cemedia.co.uk CIRCULATION Paul Kirby – Circulation & Data Manager paul.kirby@cemedia.co.uk ACCOUNTS Sally Stoker – Finance Manager sally.stoker@cemedia.co.uk Colin Munday – Management Accountant colin.munday@cemedia.co.uk ADMINISTRATION Daisy Jones – Administrator daisy.jones@cemedia.co.uk DIRECTOR Scott English – Managing Director Circulation enquiries: CE Media Call: 01245 707 516 Elite Franchise is published by CE Media, 4th Floor, Victoria House, Victoria Road, Chelmsford, CM1 1JR Copyright 2013.

All rights reserved

Experience is everything There’s a lot to be said for a safe pair of hands. Here at Elite Franchise (and indeed Elite Business, our sister title) we’re all for first-time entrepreneurs getting stuck in and giving it their best shot. But equally a decent track record goes a long way when it comes to business.

This month’s cover star Tim Lowther, the managing director of Smashburger, a new ‘better burger’ chain coming to the UK, described himself as “the burger guy”.

It’s an accurate moniker: having begun his (business) life as a McDonald’s crew member, he spent a large part of his career in management at Burger King, before spearheading the UK launch of Shake Shack in 2012. Arguably, there’s nobody better placed to bring a new burger restaurant to these shores.

Just as he’s earned his stripes in patties and buns, Lowther has also learned a thing or two about franchising. He says that his relationship with the Smashburger founder and master franchisee Tom Ryan is the foundation upon which everything else is built. There is no substitute for having open and honest conversations between franchisee or franchisor, he reckons.

We’d have to agree. Franchisees tell us constantly that being able to have a frank two-way dialogue about what works – and more importantly, what doesn’t – helps the relationship with franchisors to flourish. And with a little bit of business nous and a little bit of luck, that will translate to business success.

HANNAH PREVETT EDITOR

No part of Elite Franchise may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form or by any means, without the prior written consent of the editor.

Elite Franchise will make every effort to return picture material, but this is at the owner’s risk.

Due to the nature of the printing process, images can be subject to a variation of up to 15 per cent, therefore CE Media Limited cannot be held responsible for such variation.

cemedia.co.uk

June 2015 elitefranchise 7

Editor's letter.indd 1

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C

Kate Legg We are pleased to welcome back Legg as our legal eagle this month. A regular presenter at franchise shows up and down the UK, there aren’t many people better equipped to inform our readers on changes to consumer contracts, which affect a number of franchises. Like all of us, Legg needs a holiday now and again and she recently returned from Austria where she tucked into the country’s famous shredded pancakes, Kaiserschmarrn, and burned them off with many a mountainous walk. She certainly traversed this month’s legal column with ease.

Brian Duckett The Franchising Centre’s chairman was kind enough to pen us a piece on franchisor exit planning this month. Outside of franchising and when not holidaying in the Algarve, Duckett’s main interest is in breeding, owning and racing National Hunt horses. Ten years ago, he teamed up with Cheltenham Festival-winning trainer Richard Phillips to launch the Adlestrop Club, which combines racehorse ownership with monthly social events in the Cotswolds. It also offers the opportunity to join racehorse ownership syndicates under the banner of The Adlestrop Experience.

Nigel Toplis It’s safe to say Toplis has form when it comes to franchising.

As managing director of the Bardon Group, he has led the growth of some of the UK’s best-known franchises, including The Zip Yard and Kall Kwik. Fortunately, he found the time this month to write us a fantastic article about discovery days, an essential part of the franchisee recruitment process. Toplis lists work as one of his hobbies but he also enjoys his fair share of travel, horse racing and red wine.

Adam Pescod He’s only been back at Elite Franchise five minutes but our web editor took a week off last month to enjoy the sun, sea and, erm, spaghetti in Rhodes. Before jetting off for the Greek island, Pescod squeezed in an interview with Denise Gosney, founder of Razzamataz Theatre Schools and this month’s One to watch. Razzamataz has warmed the hearts of children and parents with its refreshing approach to performing arts, offering lessons in pop singing, musical theatre and street dance. Let’s just say it puts Pescod’s attempts at Greek dancing to shame.

8 elitefranchise June 2015

Contributors.indd 1

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Are you looking for an opportunity to

Earn a Big Income

...with a low cost base, residual income and huge growth potential Then congratulations, you’ve come to the right place!

W

elcome to thebestof – quite simply one of, if not the best business opportunity, in the UK today...

Founded over nine years ago by millionaire and entrepreneur, Nigel Botterill; thebestof promotes the very best businesses, events and local info in your local area. Thebestof began life as the UK’s first independent web directory. Today though, it’s much, much more than just a website.

For the right people, it is an amazing business opportunity with extraordinary rewards. With an established track record, a host of top national awards and thousands of great local customers... thebestof franchise has huge potential growth. thebestof has franchisees all over the UK, Australia and launched in Ireland in 2014. If you were to become a ‘thebestof franchisee’ you would truly be able to engage with your local community and give them a voice.

Not only would you become a ‘word-ofmouth’ specialist, but you’d become the most influential person in your town and get to build relationships with the very best businesses!

It has been the most amazingly, fun experience that we’ve ever had - running a business. The support from the franchisor has been nothing less than spectacular.

Adrian and Amanda Keeling thebestof Woking

Through their franchisees, thebestof is bringing back the close ties we used to have in our towns; keeping the pound in their area.

With relationships like this, you will be able to build yourself a very significant income, a business that gives you lots of flexibility and you’ll also be giving back to your community.

After just 6 months I was earning £2,500 residual income a month. I am now aiming to earn £150k per year by year 2 or 3.

This really is achievable – thanks to thebestof.

What I liked about them is that it’s all so low maintenance – the three big reasons I chose thebestof over all of the other franchisee opportunities were; Freedom, unlimited earnings and I’m helping people.

Simon Jones thebestof Colchester

Quite simply, thebestof is the go-to place for everything happening locally. They have an extensive track record, and no-one understands better than them, what it takes to start a business, and how to build it into something super-successful.

With all these advantages there’s no wonder why thebestof is celebrating it’s 10th year in franchising. After all, what securer way is there to start your own business? Franchising has a faultless formula – throw together an ambitious business owner and a successful business model with all the support you could dream of, and your business has a far better chance of success…If done well that is!

You will have the opportunity to build your capital, as well as your earnings; especially

as major banks tend to be very supportive of successful franchises. What’s more, as a business owner, you’ll be in control. You’ll be able to decide what works and what doesn’t.

Although becoming your own boss may seem like a daunting task, it can be a very exciting one too. If you have a strong desire to see your local area and the people within it prosper – becoming a ‘thebestof franchisee’ might be the thing for you.

So what does a thebestof franchisee do?

Our franchisees identify the best businesses in their local area and then, using a suite of marketing tools unique to thebestof, work with the business owner to showcase and promote them.

Your core income will be from the monthly membership payments made to you by local businesses. Because of the multi-faceted approach of thebestof, there are also additional revenue opportunities available to franchisees.

After two to three years, when you’ve got 200 featured businesses paying you £99 upwards a month, you’ll have built up a fantastic regular monthly income. Remember: residual income is a beautiful thing.

There’s only room for one thebestof franchisee in each town – one individual, partner or team who will champion and promote the very best local businesses in each area. Could that town’s hero or heroine be you?

To request your free franchise information pack visit: getthebestof.co.uk/elitefranchise

June 2015 elitefranchise 9

The Best Of June15.indd 1

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We love to see women succeed in the tough game of franchising so naturally we were very excited to learn the names of this year’s winners of the Natwest EWIF awards.

In its fifth annual ceremony, guests gathered bright and early to see awards dished out to the best females in franchising. Winners included Hilary Coates of Wagging Tails, who scooped the gong for new woman franchisee of the year, and Kate Matthews of Boddy Matthews Solicitors, who bagged the award for woman service provider of the year. Top marks all round.

Franchisees of

WORDS: JADE SAUNDERS

TaxAssist Accountants put on

their glad rags to celebrate the franchise’s 20th anniversary in style. Franchisees and their partners were wined and dined in the five-star Celtic Manor resort in Wales for the annual conference and gala dinner where it was announced that the franchise will be rolling out an expansion down under. Titan speakers included Pip Wilkins and Cathryn Hayes from the British Franchise Association (bfa) who announced at the conference that TaxAssist is again one of the finalists for the prestigious bfa HSBC Franchisor of the Year Awards, at which it won gold in 2010. There’s nothing like a good knees up.

Egypt is one of the world’s most popular tourist destinations and home to one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Now tourists will have a new landmark to flock to as Esquires Coffee sets up shop in the country. The franchise will take a shot at creating 50 shops across Egypt as it brews up further expansion into the Middle East. Cafes are culturally important meeting places and coffee connoisseurs can trust in Esquires Coffee to serve up a good cup of the strong stuff after it recently ranked second as one of the UK’s most ethical coffee chains. We reckon the camels could do with a caffeine kick too.

Papa John’s has landed a

cool deal with Planet Ice, the largest ice rink company in Europe. After meeting the team at Papa John’s at a franchise show back in 2013 and being immediately impressed, Planet Ice wanted the franchise on board to serve skaters its pristine pizzas. The partnership has already been rolled out in Planet Ice’s Milton Keynes and Uttoxeter rinks and is receiving great feedback from customers. Planet Ice has also introduced combo deals including Papa John’s pizzas to give customers a little extra. How about that for topping things off?

10 elitefranchise June 2015

News.indd 1

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Another woman in the world of franchising has been recognised for her success in the industry. Lee Dancy, managing director of Barking Mad, the dog care franchise, has been shortlisted for a gong at the First Women Awards.

The awards recognise and celebrate senior-level businesswomen and Dancy faces tough competition from five other shortlisted finalists, including a senior manager at Unilever, to scoop an award in the Retail & Consumer category. The ceremony, which takes place this month, will be hosted by sports presenter Clare Balding and follows a rigorous judging process by leading businesswomen including Vin Murria and Morella Kayman. Good luck, Lee. Hitting a milestone so soon in any venture certainly deserves a round of applause and for One Stop, the Tescoowned convenience store chain, the speedy success of its franchise offering has had us raising our glasses in congratulations. The franchise reached the remarkable milestone of 100 franchisees just 15 months after opening up its doors to franchisees and only six months after it unveiled its 50th franchisee. Champagne bottles won’t be popping yet though as celebrations are on hold for a month until the 100th store, the exact location of which is being kept under wraps, has undergone a transformation.

Dogs are inquisitive creatures and this can sometimes lead to them getting stuck in awkward places. Which is exactly what happened to poor Flossie, a curious canine that got herself stuck down a drain near Stroud.

The fire brigade turned to Drain Doctor to use its specialist underground cameras to determine Flossie’s whereabouts. Franchisee Nick Cousins sent a technician to the rescue who, after being unable to see anything on the CCTV equipment, used his quick thinking to utilise Drain Doctors’ audio equipment to listen for Flossie.

The pooch is now safe and sound thanks to the franchise, which may now consider the slogan ‘a dog’s best friend’.

The boys and girls at Snap-On have joined forces to vote for the eight franchisees and two invited members that were deemed strong enough to lead its new National Franchise Advisory Council (NFAC). Snap-On has launched its NFAC in the UK and Ireland to create stronger working relationships and enable its franchisees to have a say in improving Snap-On’s offering to franchisees and customers.

In a move intended to create a dedicated channel of communication between franchisor and franchisee, Snap-on will enable the franchise network to contribute towards growing the business with constructive comments and hands-on suggestions. Good on them, we say.

upcoming events Prelude Group – Scaling through acquisition June 18 South Place Hotel 3 South Place London, EC2M 2AF

The British Franchise Exhibition June 19 & 20 Event City Phoenix Way Manchester, M41 7TB

bfa Prospective Franchisor Seminar July 8 DLA Piper 101 Barbirolli Square Manchester, M2 3DL

bfa Prospective Franchisor Seminar September 16 Riverbank House 2 Swan Lane London, EC4R 3TT

bfa Great Northern Breakfast June 19 Event City Phoenix Way Manchester, M41 7TB

bfa Prospective Franchisor Seminar July 7 DLA Piper 101 Barbirolli Square Manchester, M2 3DL

bfa Prospective Franchisor Seminar September 15 Riverbank House 2 Swan Lane London, EC4R 3TT

bfa Prospective Franchisor Seminar October 20 Wragge Lawrence Graham & Co, Two Snowhill Birmingham, B4 6WR

A full event listing is available on our website: elitefranchisemagazine.co.uk/events June 2015 elitefranchise 11

News.indd 2

28/05/2015 22:39

The sooner the better

Withdrawal

symptoms?

How worried should franchises be about the EU referendum?

WORDS: adam pescod

W

ith the general election now a speck in our rear-view mirror, attention has turned to the impending referendum on Britain’s membership of the European Union (EU). The Conservatives’ shock victory on May 7 means that Britain will go to the polls at some point in the next 18 months, as promised by prime minister David Cameron and officially announced in the Queen’s speech last month.

At the time of writing the prime minister, who wants us to remain in the EU, was halfway through a week of talks with EU chiefs, including European Commission president Jean-Claude Juncker, which it was hoped would conclude with some agreeable new terms for the UK’s membership.

While the impact of a Brexit on British businesses is uncertain, a UK that is not in the EU would undoubtedly be a lot different to one that is. Predictably, entrepreneurs and business leaders are very wary about upsetting the status quo, such are the unknown implications of an exit for the investment landscape, recruitment and the export market, among other things.

But what about British franchises? Should they be as worried about the impending referendum as the wider business community?

The referendum itself should not be a worry to businesses as a good product or service will always find customers and overcome any political restrictions, whether the UK Linda Price, decides to remain part of the EU or not. founder and director, What should be of concern is the Swimtime disruption and the lack of certainty that a long, drawn out referendum will bring. The referendum is pencilled in for 2017 but the government, having won the right to hold it through the election, should be looking to give people the right to decide as soon as possible.

The UK franchise sector is strong at the moment, with 92% of franchises posting profits. Current economic conditions favour scalable and flexible business models – and franchising is a sector that is designed to support start-up businesses. Companies that can export their products, services and, in the case of franchising, their business model, are much more likely to prosper long-term.

All of this means that I would not want the UK to talk itself out of rising economic momentum through a prolonged period of introspection. Let’s get the debate done and dusted and let businesses adapt to the new landscape sooner rather than later.

We just need to wait and see The in-out referendum will undoubtedly have an effect on the UK economy, though it’s currently unclear which way that will be in the long- and short-term, no matter what the result. Either way, it’s pretty obvious Matt Levington, that some companies will be affected more co-founder, Business Doctors than others. For instance, companies may benefit from the reduced costs if they are freed from EU regulations but then it is possible the economy might also suffer from reduced foreign investment and demand for exports if the UK is seen as isolated from the rest of Europe.

Franchise businesses will be affected in much the same way as all other businesses on a macro scale. But again it comes down to the individual nature of the franchise as to how any particular franchise will feel the impact.

Business Doctors works to help businesses across the UK of all shapes and sizes to achieve their vision. That puts us in a prime position to witness the effects on different types of businesses, so really we must remain unbiased, as calling for a vote one way or another would be beneficial to some of our clients and detrimental to others.

So essentially we just need to wait and see.

12 elitefranchise June 2015

Talking Point.indd 1

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Belvoir FP Jan15.indd 1

09/01/2015 21:34

the Elite Interview

g n i h s a Sm

The man who helped American better burger chains Shake Shack and Five Guys beef up on these shores, Tim Lowther, is leading the UK expansion of another: Smashburger

BY HANNAH PREVETT

seems fitting that the man who describes himself as the “burger guy” began his career in McDonald’s, nearly 30 years ago. Tim Lowther left school at 16, having decided not to do A-levels and go to university. “I wanted to start earning my millions straight away, so I went to work at McDonald’s in Bognor Regis as a crew member.”

Lowther was propelled through the management ranks and nine years later he was running his own store. His next career move was to TGI Friday’s, where he spent three years. “McDonald’s taught me all I knew about how to run a business and how to serve people quickly in a fast-food environment. McDonald’s was, ‘bring ‘em in, serve ‘em food, take ‘em out and bring some more people in,’” he explains.

“Friday’s showed me how to go from looking after people in a quick turnaround business to spending time giving great service to those people. It was, ‘bring people in, give them a great experience and make them want to come back for more’.

Friday’s was really how I learned how restaurants were run.”

Next stop on the burger belt was SSP and then Compass Group, where he worked for Burger King. “That’s where my career took off,” he says. “I went from looking after one Burger King to two, to ten, to 30. I moved to Germany and helped set up the Burger King business for SSP in the German train stations for a couple of years.” He lived in Frankfurt for nearly two years but his job took him to every corner of the country. The travel and hard graft paid off. “When I joined, there were two Burger Kings that weren’t doing very well and when I left it just under two years later there were 18 very successful Burger Kings across the German market.” And that wasn’t the only feather in Lowther’s cap: “I could finally speak German when I left.”

14 elitefranchise June 2015

IT

the Elite Interview

In 2006, he took a break from burgers, becoming international brand development manager for coffee chain Caffe Ritazza. His globetrotting adventures began again in earnest as he took on responsibility for 200 cafes in 20 countries. “I did a lot of travelling and it was great. I don’t do so much now and that’s great too. People always say that travelling is great fun and I would endorse that. It opens your horizons, going round to all different countries and understanding how different people work,” says Lowther.

“We live in a very multicultural society; having been to a lot of countries has certainly helped me and will continue to help me in the future with the teams I work with.”

After a year and eight months, he went back to the grill – or at least back to burgers. He joined Burger King on the franchise side, helping the company find new franchisees across Europe, in countries including the UK, Denmark, Norway and Sweden.

It was four years ago that his journey into the ‘better burger’ market began, when he was approached to help launch US burger sensation Shake Shack in Covent Garden. It was a fast-food chain launch like no other: it saw hungry punters queue outside on the square’s cobbled streets to await a taste of its meaty treats and infamous cheese fries. His oeuvre caught the eye of the bigwigs at Five Guys, who invited him to assist in their launch into the north of England. Which just about brings us up-to-date.

“Now I find myself where I am.” And where he is is spearheading the UK launch of Smashburger, a US better burger franchise, after the rights were acquired by MSG Group. “I met with Tom Ryan, the founder of Smashburger, at the end of last year. Tom was the most inspirational guy,” says Lowther.

“Within five minutes of meeting him in Denver, I was in the kitchen smashing burgers. I’ve met many founders and many creators of businesses but Tom was the first one to say, ‘come on Tim, let’s go smash a burger in the kitchen.’”

Smashburger’s USP is the way it prepares and cooks its burgers – it even has a patented tool called a Smasher.

“We take a fresh ball of British beef, 100% fresh, never frozen, and we ball it in-house. As somebody orders at the counter, we take our tennis ball of burger and we place it onto a hot buttered grill and then we smash that patty straight down onto the grill.

When the Smasher creates that patty it’s the first time that burger has been turned into a patty,” Lowther explains.

“It’s not been squashed or forced or formed or stacked on top of anything else. The meat is all loose and nice and by smashing it onto the grill you create a caramelisation of the bottom of the patty, which creates a seal and keeps all of the delicious juices and everything inside the burger. We then flip it over and it’s good to go.”

The first two stores will open before Christmas, “four or five” in the early part of 2016 and then 30-35 outlets in the next few years. “The reality is that’s probably just the first dot on the horizon; that’s the first target and there’s plenty more space for the brand as we go forward.”

The better burger market has seen many new market entrants in the last few years: few high streets or shopping centres are without a Byron, Gourmet Burger Kitchen or one of the cooler and edgier Meat Liquor or Red True Barbecue restaurants. But Lowther is not afraid of a little competition – he says there’s plenty of space for a plethora of better burger brands to thrive. “The better burger revolution that started two or three years ago is really just in its infancy. When I

r e t t be r ger e h T bu on ed i t u ol start v e r at t h hr e e r t a go is o o t w e ars y ly l r e a j u s t in cy n a f n it s i

16

ers renewable energy solutions for both domestic and commercial use. Be a part of the fastest growing subsector industry in the world with Green Square.

• Exclusive product range •

renewable technology

cations in

• Quality Management system for micro-generation technologies in place (MCS) • Supported by legislation • Low overhead model • Bespoke software allowing full system design and calculations for complex installations • Full Marketing support: Website, launch event and marketing campaigns • Turn-key business concept For more information about this amazing opportunity:

Call: 0845

263 7474

Email: franchise@greensquare.co.uk Web: greensquare.co.uk/renewablefranchise

EliteFranchiseApril2015.indd 1

The home of energy solutions

31/03/2015 22:56

the Elite Interview

Atlantic. Lowther says a strong relationship with franchise owner Ryan is critical to the success of the brand on these shores. “As a franchisor, it’s important that you find a partner that you can trust with your business and we’re delighted that Tom and his team think that’s me and mine,” he comments.

“Today I’ve been looking at reams of operations manuals and training manuals and guidelines, all of which we’ll be able to use to deliver this fantastic brand the way we want.

Tom and I speak virtually daily now as we talk about how we can work together to make this brand perfect. It’s the opportunity to work together within that framework in a two-way dialogue. Good franchisors are the ones that enable and engage with that two-way dialogue and those franchises that don’t struggle, in my experience.”

Lowther isn’t giving anything away about location. He admits that he’d love to have a flagship store in the capital – but only if the price is right. “We’ll do that if it makes sense.

We’re looking across the UK in all locations and if we find that flagship site at the right price, we’ll do it. What I won’t do is spend £5m on a premium location in central London just to make a loss but to say we’ve arrived.”

He has nothing to prove, he says. “I’ll look across the country and open in those sites that make sense for the brand, for the business, and more importantly, for the customers around us.”

If the first UK Smashburger store opens in a town near you, what should you be ordering? Lowther’s favourite is the truffle mushroom swiss burger. Not your average Big Mac, then. “We were in our development kitchen recently sampling the truffle oils and the mayonnaise and we’ve got it absolutely bang-on. And I have to say the kitchen did smell of truffles for a few hours after we’d finished.”

Considering Lowther reckons he’s eaten a burger “more or less every day for the last 30 years” he’s looking incredibly trim. What’s his secret? “I run once or twice a week if I get the time but I also have a very balanced, healthy diet. I don’t have burgers for three meals a day,” he jokes. He also has two children, Jake, seven, and Rosie, five, who keep him on his toes. “They love the fact their dad works in a burger restaurant. And it’s also a good way to keep slim: running around after them is hard work,” he says.

Like many a high-flier, he admits it’s tough to strike the right balance between work and home life. He considers himself lucky to have been able to take a year out to spend time with his wife and children before he joined Shake Shack in 2012. “Everybody always has a demand on your time but it’s a case of prioritising the important things and making sure they get the time they need,” he says. “Delivering a new burger restaurant into the UK is going to be a lot of hard work but it’s going to be incredible fun. And my family will be joining me for the ride.”

I frequently walk in and roll my sleeves up and start putting plates through the dishwasher

joined McDonald’s as a crew member in 1986, people were saying, ‘there are too many of these restaurants; there’s no space for it to develop any further,’ and if you fast forward nearly 30 years later there are 1,200 or 1,300 McDonald’s, 500-600 Burger Kings and 800 KFCs. There are still only 200-300 better burger [outlets] in the UK at the moment and that tells me there’s massive room for growth,” says a bullish Lowther.

He’ll be relying on the expertise of his team to help offer customers the best possible service.

“You have to listen to the team you’ve got in front of you. I started as a crew member at McDonald’s and that gives me unique insight into my business today at Smashburger. The first people I speak to when I walk into my restaurant are the guys in the kitchen or the guys cleaning the floor because they’ll tell me how my business is running,” he says.

“Of course the managers are important to my business, it’s essential to keep the business running smoothly but actually it’s the guy who’s just finished his eight-hour shift on dish duty who will really tell you what’s happening in my business. I will frequently walk in and roll my sleeves up and start putting plates through the dishwasher because by spending 20 minutes with Brian on dish I’m going to know more about my business than half a day sat looking at the numbers of dealing with the management team.”

And partnerships aren’t only important on this side of the

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Join the UK’s leading packing and shipping specialists

PACK & SEND is very different from a simple courier or shipping company Our retail-based one-stop shop franchise for collection, packing and delivery to anywhere in the world is unrivalled in the UK and is used by individuals and businesses alike. We are now in the process of expanding our UK store network, and are keen for more high-calibre candidates to join the team!

• High gross profit margins • Rapidly cash generative business model • No direct competitors • 20+ years of trading success since our global launch in Australia • Low staffing levels and B2B trading hours • Low levels of non-perishable stock • Comprehensive pre-launch training • Hands on in-store support post-launch To learn more about owning your own PACK & SEND store contact our franchise development team now on 0118 958 4628 email them at franchises@packsend.co.uk or visit packsend.co.uk/pages/uk-franchise-opportunities/

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✴ ONE TO WATCH

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Shining Bright

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Razzamataz Theatre Schools has won over parents – and a Dragon – with its refreshing approach to performing arts

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WORDS: ADAM PESCOD

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enise Gosney, founder of Razzamataz Theatre Schools, admits to being a quiet soul when she was at school. And while dancing and gymnastics helped her come out of her shell, she was still something of a late bloomer. “I actually didn’t start taking performing arts – in particular dance – seriously until I was ten,” says Gosney. “It was quite late, considering I have gone on to make a lifelong career from it. But I completely caught the bug.”

Gosney went on to become a professional dancer, performing in pantomimes and on cruise liners, before becoming a choreographer. However, when she reached her late twenties, she had to think again about her career. “A dancer’s life is actually quite short,” says Gosney. “Probably at about 26 or 27 I was starting to think, ‘what else am I going to do?’”

Following a brief spell as a fitness instructor, Gosney was yearning to put her unique talents to good use. Thankfully, she already had some experience. “Gymnastics really brought me out of my shell,” she says “I was teaching by the age of 12 and I went to Canada to teach Canadian children at 15. That’s where my confidence built because I realised I actually did have a talent for something.”

In 2000, Gosney started the first Razzamataz Theatre School, offering classes in West End musical theatre, street dancing and pop

✴ singing to children aged two through to 18.

However, while teaching would be at the centre of her new venture, Gosney very much wanted it to serve as an extra-curricular activity for its ‘customers’, free of the constraints and pressures of education. “I never wanted a dance school because dance school is full of exams and that is one thing that we don’t do at Razz,” she says. “My wee boy is seven. He is going into his SATs and there is so much pressure put on them at such a young age with exams. We do arts awards now but there aren’t a lot of exams, as such. It is all about building confidence and giving them opportunities.”

As Gosney explains, the way the performing arts sector has changed over the years also influenced her choice of business model. “Years ago, in the entertainment business, the dancers danced, the comedian did their piece and the singers sung. But it’s changed – it’s all show teams now. In the West End, you expect it to be a triple set, as we call it in our industry. That means you are able to do all three disciplines: dance, drama and singing.”

Before she knew it, Gosney had set up

in a child e e s u o y ence on The differ ough your doors er is r t coming th a few months la o t day one le b unbelievoasney Denise

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45083 DD Franchise advert_Layout 1 27/03/2015 11:33 Page 2

Your New Life Starts Here • Run your own business with earnings of £100,000+ • Work close to home and build an asset you can sell • Manage your diary to spend more time with your family

Dozens of people, just like you, enjoy freedom and financial rewards with a Dream Doors franchise

“Everything has panned out exactly as we were told it would. Dream Doors has been honest from the start, painting a realistic picture with real figures. I'm really enjoying being a business owner and have absolutely no regrets at all.”

Ex-teacher, Lesley Wallace, joined in 2012 and sold half-a-million pounds in her first year.

“This franchise works and the returns are much better than we'd expected.

The figures we were shown are very conservative; we beat our first year targets in just four months. We should have done this sooner as I love coming into work every day.”

Ex-police officer, Mark Battin sold three-quarters-of-a-million pounds in his first full year.

“This business gets better and better all the time. We've had more record breaking months already this year. Sales like ours can only be achieved if you have the right support network around you; whether that is staff or suppliers, the franchisor or your family.”

Ex-IT specialists, Angela and Clive sold more than £1 million last year.

“We wanted to start our own business, but take some of the risk out of the equation. Dream Doors ticked every box: it's well-established with a strong track record, plus it has an excellent support network. And, with such a busy start, we've relied on that support.”

Ex-police officer, Gareth Kavanagh-Dixon, sold £450,000 in his first year.

NO KITCHEN EXPERIENCE NEEDED this is a sales and management franchise Dream Doors is the UK's largest kitchen facelift retailer and a FULL member of the British Franchise Association.

10-time award winners, the company has been trading since 1999 and has transformed more than 40,000 homes across the country.

To start your new life, and join 60 fellow franchisees, contact Dream Doors today.

Tel: 02392 988685 EliteFranchiseApril2015.indd 1

www.dreamdoorsfranchise.co.uk 27/03/2015 18:06

ONE TO WATCH

Razzamataz schools in Penrith, Carlisle, Dumfries and Galloway, South Cumbria, Kendall, Keswick and Paisley. But it was upon opening a new school in Edinburgh in 2006 that she realised she could no longer grow the business on her own. “I went to Edinburgh and realised there was only one of me. I couldn’t do this anymore,” says Gosney. “My teachers were expressing an interest in doing something similar so if I didn’t franchise they were only going to set up in competition against me.”

Franchising certainly seemed the best way for Gosney to take the business forward. “I looked into franchising and thought that was a good route to grow my business while keeping control of my brand,” she says.

“Also, it seemed a good opportunity for me to mentor a lot of my teachers – who are younger than me – in running their own businesses.”

It was also around this time that Gosney decided to go on Dragons’ Den but it wasn’t Razzamataz she wanted to pitch. “I did have a new, innovative idea, which was actually a performing arts game but I didn’t have the prototype ready in time,” she explains. “They then obviously looked at my website and said, ‘You have got a franchise. Why don’t you come on the show with that?’”

Gosney was initially wary about taking her fledgling theatre school business in front of the Dragons but ultimately decided it was worth the risk. “I was actually a bit reluctant at first because it’s my baby really,” she says. “Obviously, running a business is about investment and making money but it’s quite personal for me as well. But I didn’t have a lot of time to think about it and I also thought, ‘What harm can it do?’”

Gosney ended up wooing Duncan Bannatyne, gratefully accepting his offer of £50,000 for a 25% stake in the business. It was the first time a Dragon had offered the full amount and not haggled over the equity. “I obviously researched all the Dragons but I genuinely – and I’m not just saying this – wanted Duncan to invest,” says Gosney. “All of the others liked products; they like to touch and feel a product and put it on a shelf.

Duncan started with a chain of ice-cream vans, then he had a chain of nurseries and then he had a chain of nursing homes. And now he has obviously got a chain of health clubs. So I knew that if anyone was going to be interested in a franchise or a chain, it was going to be him. He is also from Goven, Clydebank, which is round the corner from Renfrew, where I am from.”

And there was another surprise in store for Gosney too. “I was actually expecting my first child and didn’t realise it,” she says. “So it was a bit of a 24 elitefranchise June 2015

I never wanted a dance school because dance school is full of exams Denise Gosney

ONE TO WATCH

double whammy. Not only had I just got Duncan Bannatyne a partner; I found out I was going to be a mum for the first time.”

Last September, Bannatyne sold his share in Razzamataz Theatre Schools back to Gosney, who couldn’t be more thankful for what he has done for the company. “You couldn’t buy the kind of PR that he has brought to the business,” says Gosney. “He is obviously a respected businessman. He doesn’t take any carry-on. He is very much a family man and he is actually a bit of a closet actor.”

In addition to the 40 franchises Razzamataz now boasts on these shores, it is working with the likes of First Choice, P&O, and Thomson, with classes offered to children at holiday parks or on cruise liners. Direct Line and Cravendale have also shown an interest in Razzamataz’s talented crop of young performers and, most recently, Universal Movies has signed them up to help promote the upcoming Barbie film.

While her eyes are now set overseas, Gosney is still eager to expand the company’s presence in the UK to 100 franchises. But such is the attachment to her business and her young students, Gosney is happy to sacrifice rapid growth for the sake of getting the right people on board and supporting them. “I would rather expand slowly and make sure all my franchisees are well-supported and well looked after, than expand too quickly,” says Gosney. “Having the passion and time to devote to your students, to your parents and to growing your business is really important.”

Razzamataz franchisees enjoy having a say in the overall direction of the whole business, not just their individual franchises. “The beauty of buying into a fairly young business, like us, is that we very much listen to our network,” says Gosney. “It is very much their business as well and we want them to be part of that. We have just launched a new website and new branding and that was all a network decision. It wasn’t just a head office decision.”

Gosmey admits “it’s been a bit of a whirlwind” but seeing children leave her schools with a spring in their step makes it all seem worth it. Her favourite story is of a little girl who came through her door and was very shy. Four or five months later, she recited a poem in front of a room full of people; a difficult feat for an adult, let alone a small child. “The difference you see in a child coming through your doors on day one to even just a few months later is unbelievable,” she says.

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ADVERTISING FEATURE

Dynamic and recessionproof high-street franchise The ZipYard is the fastest growing garment alteration franchise in the UK. With distinctive branding and a well-planned shopfit to minimise square footage for maximum profit, the opportunity provides owners with a business that is welcome in any high street

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fficially launched in Britain by The Bardon Group in 2011 growth has been very strong and the company is well on the way to achieving its first target of opening 50 centres in the UK. The business provides a much-needed service and has a real role to play in the rejuvenation of the UK’s high streets.

New openings are well supported by local dignitaries including mayors and MPs notably the Chancellor of the Exchequer, George Osborne who officially opened the Wilmslow ZipYard in 2013.

The Bardon Group runs three other well-known franchise brands – Recognition Express (est. 1979), ComputerXplorers (since 2005) and Kall Kwik (first franchised in 1979) and has a management team that is long established in the franchise industry.

Specifically designed to project a stylish, high quality image, the ZipYard offers a wide range of alteration and tailoring services, all done on site by trained professionals in purpose-built, beautifully shopfitted centres, branded in the ZipYard’s signature eye-catching yellow and black colours.

From dress re-styling and taking in or letting out to bridal-wear fitting or formal wear alterations, the ZipYard provides convenient, speedy and cost effective clothing alterations and repairs.

The ZipYard franchise package is a total turnkey operation, comprising a complete shop fit, state of the art machinery, computer systems and a comprehensive marketing package which includes regional PR activity.

The package includes industrial sewing machines, specialist alteration and repair machinery, a computer, software, EPOS system, signage, fixtures and fittings, various consumables, starting stock, plus training and ongoing support from the franchisor, and a marketing and PR campaign to launch each centre.

Why choose The ZipYard?

Former driving instructor Richard McConnell, 34, opened England’s first ZipYard franchise in Altrincham in 2011, which was followed by a second centre in Wilmslow in 2013.

“We did lots of research in the franchise press and online, and looked into a wide variety of franchises,” said McConnell.

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“Being your own boss is hard work but very gratifying. Having the opportunity to make your own decisions is very satisfying but knowing you can rely on the franchise group gives you the confidence to approach situations with ease and a shared experience” Kevin Old, The ZipYard in Bournemouth

“The Altrincham ZipYard has exceeded all of our expectations, and the model is so well thought out that it was easy to replicate in Wilmslow. Our reputation went before us and the customer base in the new ZipYard is building very nicely.

“Initially it was my wife who noticed the ZipYard advert and she thought it was a fantastic idea. We did some research and quickly realised that there was no real competition in our area. Most of the time clothing repairs are done as a bolt-on service at dry cleaners. The turn-around time isn’t very good and they don’t offer a very wide range of services.

“We went to meet Nigel Toplis, the franchisor, and we visited a centre in Wales. We were impressed by the professionalism of the franchise.

The brand is very strong and the shop fit is amazing, from the fitting rooms to the equipment and layout. They really know what they are doing and can cater for every kind of alteration and repair on site.”

Training & Support

All franchise owners have a two-week comprehensive induction programme that covers business practices, computer systems, running a centre, marketing and promotions, and recruitment. Part of the training takes place in an existing centre that is up and running to provide a proper hands-on experience. Every aspect of the set-up from finding premises to launching and promoting the centre is fully supported by the franchisor.

Once up and running the support continues with additional training, business and product development work, on-going business advice and planning, marketing and PR.

Jill Phillips, 46, set up the ZipYard in Basingstoke in May 2012 after being made redundant 8 months previously. “The whole team has been fantastic,” said Phillips. “From the training, which was very hands-on, to the huge level of support I’ve had, it’s all been great. Although it’s my business and the buck stops with me, I’ve never felt alone or out on a limb. It’s been teamwork from day one.”

“I would definitely recommend the ZipYard to other potential franchisees. I’m learning all the time and it’s such a sociable business. I really enjoy talking to the customers and I get such a feeling of satisfaction from seeing how happy they are when their clothes fit properly,” she added.

Marketing

Head office provides a wide range of marketing support to the network including email marketing, a comprehensive range of promotional collateral and window posters that are supplied free of charge throughout the year to each centre.

All franchisees also have access to a retained PR agency that carries out regular regional seasonal activity on behalf of the ZipYard to raise awareness and generate footfall to the centres.

Contact: Emma Downes t: 01530 513307 e: edownes@thezipyard.co.uk Total Cost:£38,500 + VAT plus shop fit

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ARE YOU READY FOR THE NEXT BIG ADVERTISING FEATURE

Find your financial freedom Anytime Fitness is ranked #1 in category and #2 overall on Entrepreneur magazine’s prestigious 2015 Franchise 500 list, surpassing well-known franchises like Subway, McDonald’s, and Pizza Hut

John Devlin, Anytime Fitness Urmston

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his success is clear from the company’s growth in just ten years to almost 2,850 Anytime Fitness clubs and 2.5 million members in 23 countries worldwide. UK expansion is also moving fast with almost 50 clubs open in the UK and over 180 territories sold.

If you have the minimum liquid capital of £110,000 or more, you too could own your own gym.

In less than five years, 20% of our UK franchisees have more than one territory, making the business benefits even greater.

Your future investment opportunity

Due to our convenient locations, 24/7 access and desire to support everyone to lead a healthier lifestyle, your club will become the centre of the community and the tool to change people’s lives.

Anytime Fitness franchise opportunities offer financial freedom with a reliable and predictable income as well as a great work-life balance. Running your own gym can be a life-changing and inspirational business decision.

What do our franchisees say?

Our franchisees are businessmen and women with the entrepreneurial flair to identify a good business opportunity but 95% come from outside the fitness industry.

I wanted a business that was both fun and rewarding and my club is progressing according to plan thanks to the excellent support from head office.

Shravan Reddy, Anytime Fitness St Paul’s Bristol was the first Anytime Fitness franchise to open in 2012; I now have 6 clubs and am looking for the next property.

Robin Drysdale, Multiple club owner

Basingstoke-PTSession

We opened in October 2014 and have 800 members already. I’m really excited about the future with Anytime Fitness.

John Devlin, Anytime Fitness Urmston Once you join in with the Anytime Fitness franchise success, our experts will help you find your club location, negotiate and advise on all property matters, create business, marketing and sales plans and be on hand every step of the way towards creating your successful business.

Find out more about Anytime Fitness and franchising

Choosing which franchise business model to invest in for your future is one of the biggest decisions you will make. With nearly 50 clubs now trading and growth accelerating, don’t miss out. Get in touch today to secure your territory.

Take the next step towards owning your own gym today!

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FRANCHISE MODEL IN THE Join one of the Top 5 Franchises inUK? the world

own a franChise aT the heaRT oF YoUr coMMUniTY “We both wanted to work for ourselves and were looking for an opportunity that would give us back control of our lives. We looked at franchises and setting up our own business but the more we looked into Anytime Fitness, the support and its proven success it took away most of the risk involved. It’s almost like a family. What we love most is the importance of the members; we enjoy getting to know everyone, their stories and successes.”

Hugh & Cathy Mullan ANYTIME FITNESS GLASGOW

What our franchisees enjoy: 9 Recession resilient industry 9 Low staff model 9 Join the fitness franchise revolution 9 2,850+ clubs worldwide 9 Global member reciprocal usage 9 Specialised club management system

Now looking for their next club in Scotland

50 clubs now trading across the uK, more coming soon and over 180 territories sold.

Call us on +44 (0)870 4788770 jointhefamily@anytimefitness.co.uk

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“The fastest growing fitness club in the world!” IHRSA

28/05/2015 16:22

ANALYSIS

H T L A E H S E S I H C N A R F t fi d o o g a are

ANALYSIS

Health and fitness franchises offer more than just a commercial opportunity; franchisees are able to make a positive difference in the lives of others whilst making a living

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ith obesity levels rising, along with diseases caused by inactivity and poor nutrition, more and more people are becoming aware of the dangers of an unhealthy lifestyle. The UK is in the midst of an obesity epidemic and by, 2034, it is estimated that 70% of adults will be overweight or obese.

There is a growing demand for more health and fitness franchises to outnumber the fast food franchises dotted on almost every corner and it seems that many are now spotting a gap in the market to provide 24-hour gyms, fast food alternatives and nutritional products. But what makes the industry so appealing and what types of people are enticed into health and fitness franchises?

WORDS: JADE SAUNDERS

Fitness tailored to you

Increasing numbers of American fitness franchises bringing their brand to Blighty. But what is calling these brands from across the pond?

“As a nation we are quite far behind other nations in terms of our average participation,” explains Andy Thompson, UK chairman of Anytime Fitness, the access-all-hours gym franchise. “About 12% of the population will use a health and fitness club and we are way behind the States, the Nordic nations and Spain.”

As one of the leaders in the fitness industry, Anytime Fitness is unique in its 24-hour availability and as a more convenient alternative to conventional health clubs. It therefore stands out to franchisees looking to venture into the health and fitness franchise industry.

Thompson is not only chairman but an active franchisor at Anytime Fitness. He invested in the global brand after realising the potential of its unique offering as well as the chance to promote a healthier lifestyle. “I was a big user of health clubs and I could see how people would benefit from something like Anytime Fitness,” he says.

“We are, probably more than ever, being bombarded with lots of messages around health and exercise,” explains Thompson. “Therefore there’s a huge amount of interest in actually getting into the health club or into the gym and doing something.

Everyone knows that you’re going to suffer a bit in there; it’s not going to be easy. But we want to make it

as pleasant as possible in that suffering.”

Many of Anytime Fitness’s franchisees own multiple franchises and, while many live and breathe fitness themselves, others have acknowledged the growing demand for gyms catered to different lifestyles and working patterns.

“The health and fitness sector at the moment is ripe for investment. There are lots of things happening and it is generally a market where you do see a lot of fads and trends,” says Thompson. “The reality is exercising in a health and fitness club has been here for years and will be here for many more years to come.”

Nutritious nosh

Getting a healthy snack when out and about can be a challenge. With fast food chains, doughnut stands and ice cream vendors filling our high streets and shopping centres, it’s hard to avoid the temptation to wave goodbye to a healthier lifestyle and succumb to naughtier treats.

But one franchise has come to the rescue to offer up healthy and nutritious drinks and snacks. The brains behind Zenerjii, a fresh smoothie franchise, spotted a gap in the market to provide fast-food alternatives to health conscious customers with products free from preservatives, added sugar and concentrates.

“We have had a lot of interest in franchising our units so I definitely think that people are capitalising on a growing consciousness of the general public for healthy food,” says Naoimh Hughes, marketing manager at Zenerjii. “People have become more nutritionally aware over the last couple of years and I think attitudes have shifted away from fast food and junk food to being more conscious of what people are eating,” One product in particular that has exploded in the UK is frozen yoghurt and Zenerjii quickly cottoned on to the nation’s Sarah Benham, Herbalife hankering for a low-fat ice cream alternative. “There are a lot of different frozen yoghurt places popping up so that was definitely a product that we were keen to put on our menu because it is a healthy alternative to ice cream,” Hughes says.

Whilst there is an obvious commercial opportunity in health franchises, Zenerjii says offering a quality product to customers is more important than the profit it makes. For Zenerjii, it’s more about making a difference to people’s lifestyles and promoting a healthy diet. Staff are well educated to provide all nutritional information on each product with their in-depth knowledge about the sugar levels and micro and macro nutrients in each product, putting them in a good position to advise increasingly health aware

You only get one body, you’ve got to look after it

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customers.

“A lot of fast-food chains sometimes hide their nutritional content. We are very upfront and transparent,” explains Hughes. “It’s basically about trying to educate people on the ground about our products and about nutrition in general.”

Even Zenerjii’s name harks back to the balance of a healthy lifestyle and relates to the increased energy levels that come with eating healthier. The company aims to educate customers on not only what is in its products but on healthy eating habits in general. It does this with savvy staff and the posters dotted around each shop.

It also runs blind taste tests for customers to see if they can tell the difference between concentrate juices from the supermarket and Zenerjii’s freshly squeezed juices. “It gives us the opportunity to explain why freshly squeezed, for example, is so much better than the bottled stuff,” says Hughes.

The health and fitness sector is ripe for investment Andy Thompson, Anytime Fitness

A healthy body is a happy body

With the nation becoming more aware of the dangers of obesity and the diseases brought on by unhealthy lifestyles, the need for health and fitness franchises is certainly growing.

One franchise owner that advocates a healthy lifestyle and actively promotes this as a career is Sarah Benham, personal wellness coach and franchisee of Herbalife in Chelmsford.

What started as company selling health and nutrition products, turned into over a decade of educating others on the benefits of a healthier lifestyle. Bored of her sedentary career, Benham and her husband were captured by the healthy glow of existing Herbalife franchisees and knew that achieving that lifestyle themselves, as well as encouraging others, was their calling. They practice what they preach: they use Herbalife products daily and have a healthy, active lifestyle.

For Benham and her husband, their business is not just an income generator but also a way to educate others about a healthly lifestyle.

“We are just promoting a healthy active lifestyle; 80% of that is down to your nutrition and 20% of that is down to the exercise that you do,” explains Benham. “With the obesity epidemic and everything that is going on around us, our focus is to get people to lead a healthier active lifestyle and live longer.”

Benham took her mission further by running a Fit Camp fitness programme five times a week to help people of all ages and sizes get moving and reach fitness goals.

“They can come along with friends, it’s free and if you don’t like it you don’t have to come

back.” Each session lasts 30-50 minutes and is run by Benham or her husband. Sessions are free to attend and open to all, not just customers. With the sessions, Benham hopes to educate others on being responsible for their lifestyle. With Fit Camp, fitness tests, weigh-ins and if customers choose, the Herbalife nutrition, Benham is providing all-round support to those wanting to look after themselves. She lives by the mantra: “You only get one body, you’ve got to look after it.”

Health and fitness franchises lend themselves to more than just the health conscious. Every person can benefit from a healthier lifestyle and with more people becoming aware of the benefits, more opportunities for franchises are arising.

“There is a massive gap in the market for it,” says Benham. “As long as people do their research and understand what they are getting involved in.”

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Contact us on 01494 484664 for a free brochure pack or visit our website on www.pacerleisure.com

ARE YOU LOOKING FOR A BUSINESS THAT YOU CAN RUN FROM HOME? You’ve just found it!

Pacer Leisure Vehicles International Ltd have manufactured and sold the renowned Cub Electric Karts for more than 23 years.

Cub has been designed for children age 3 to 10 and Pacer now proudly present the Panther Electric karts for children 3 – 11.

This is a exciting opportunity to run your own business in the lucrative children’s birthday and entertainment market using Pacer electric karts.

Cub and Panther can be used almost anywhere at birthday parties, shopping centres, fetes and fairs, holiday camps, leisure centres, school playgrounds, car parks, sports grounds and corporate functions just to name a few.

*Full or part time *No ongoing fees *No fixed overheads

PACER KARTS • Are extremely safe • Virtually no noise • No pollution • Can be operated full or part time • Can be used indoors and outdoors • Runs on grass, shingle and tarmac • Do not mark polished floors • Circuit only takes seconds to inflate Turn-key business packages start from £11,999.00 + VAT, which consists of 4 x Pacer karts, batteries, chargers, Inflatable track, electric blower, track accessories, owners manual and 12 month Test certificate. There are no monthly fees. All Pacer karts are EC directives certified, easily maintained and full training, business information and ongoing support will be provided. Finance and insurance details are available. Secure your financial future and have fun doing it!

The potential for this unique business is enormous!

Start your own franchise

for just £3000 Oast House Farm Snacks provide a fantastic range of the highest quality muffins, flapjacks, cookies, crunch bars, shortbread fingers, nuts and confectionery. Our boxes are delivered to offices around the country to meet the snacking needs of all those who work there.

What’s included ?

What you need

For more information

• Your snack boxes will be placed for you prior to your business starting • Postcoded territory • Business planning & finance support • Registration for business • Initial stock of stationery • Corporate clothing • All training and ongoing support • Business software system • Business operation manual • Full accounting support • Arrange local hospice cause related marketing contract • Great revenue while supporting your local hospice

• You will need to invest in your boxes and start up stock • You will also need to purchase your top up stock • A vehicle of a suitable size such as a hatchback, estate or small van • A storage area such as a garage or within a self storage facility

Call Matt: 01444 471752 Email: Franchising@charitysnacks.co.uk

HP Ad Place RHP.indd 1

www.charitysnacks.co.uk

28/05/2015 18:28

Your Franchise is at Risk!

Strengthen Your Brand

Best practice guidelines

You can mitigate this risk and protect your brand with Concordia, because we will train your Franchisees to identify early complex employment situations, and will support them through active case management.

Strengthen Your Bottom Line Comprehensive HR policy pack

Employment & skills training for Managers

Empowering you and keeping you informed

Employment related disputes are time consuming and expensive. Even when employment tribunals rule in favour of the employer.

Did you know: • Discrimination awards in 2013/14 have exceeded £200,000, not including legal expenses incurred (frequently a multiple of the award themselves)?

• Some awards can put a franchisee (or even possibly You!) out of business with the highest unfair dismissal award in 2013/14 being £3,402,245!

On-site Investigation

Professional support

Coaching

We are your partner and remain with you every step of the way

Employment Practice Liability insurance

Strengthen Your Value Proposition The service we offer will add further value to what you currently offer to your franchisees, and will further differentiate you from other Franchisors. By grouping across the entire franchise, similarly to a “shared service” approach

give our team a call 03300 889 637 or visit www.concordia-employment.co.uk To find out more about protecting your franchise

Complete Financial protection

Concordia Employment Services Limited is an Appointed Representative of Ambant Underwriting Services Limited, which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.

Concordia Full page.indd 1

31/03/2015 18:58

Are you missing calls or losing new orders?

Are you...

• Using an answer-machine?

• Closing too early for your callers?

• Too slow speaking to your new web enquiries?

• Losing new callers whilst you’re on your phone?

• Relying on a weak mobile signal?

• Too busy on your existing work projects?

• Closed at weekends?

PA4You support some of the fastest growing businesses in the UK turning their missed opportunities into new orders. Give our award winning support services a try, for free! What do you have to lose?

supporting your business

www.pa4you.co.uk

Email: hello@pa4you.co.uk or call us: 0333 800 3690 PA4You_May_Full Page.indd 1

21/05/2015 09:22

Insurance claims management & building repair

Victim’s of Our

OWN SUCCESS What do Concept do?

Our Network acts on behalf of policy holders in the event of a property claim to ensure that they receive a fair settlement and a high quality repair to their property. We work on behalf of both domestic and commercial clients. At the core of our service is customer satisfaction delivered through ethical and professional claims management joined with a high quality project management provision.

What Next?

Due to our unprecedented recent success we now need to recruit new professional, focussed individuals into our network. To expedite the recruitment

of new members to our network we are offering the opportunity for new franchisees to defer ÂŁ10,000.00 of the purchase price for 3 months and then pay this over a 12, 24 or even 36 month term with no interest or charges. Offer makes joining the Concept franchise considerably more affordable than many of competitors.

We only have a limited number of these opportunities therefore we will provide them based on the merit of each individual who applies, let us know what makes you the ideal Concept candidiate. Upon receipt of your application we will endeavour to provide you with a decision within 72 hours. * Subject to your financial status Be

fo

re

aft

er

To make an application or if you would like to learn more about the Concept Building Solutions franchise opportunity please call us on the number below.

We will send you an application form

0800 037 0315 info@concept-solutions.co.uk

t @conceptCBS F conceptbuildingsolutions

.

Limited

number of Opportunities

www.conceptpropertyclaims.co.uk Concept building solutions_FP.indd 1

21/05/2015 09:25

INTERNATIONAL

Tomorrow, th£ world Starting with Ireland before moving on to Canada and Australia, TaxAssist Accountants now has its sights firmly set on the US, Scandinavian and northern European markets

WORDS: RYAN MCCHRYSTAL

W

orld domination isn’t a modest goal by any means but it is one with rather high potential returns. What’s more, as accountancy franchise TaxAssist Accountants is proving, with a sensible approach – in this case, starting small and aiming high – it is more than achievable.

TaxAssist exists purely to look after the accounting needs of small businesses and it all began in 1995 when founder John Westgarth saw a gap in the market. His eureka moment came when he realised small businesses weren’t traditionally well looked after in the arena.

“In accountancy you’ve got your one-man bands working at the kitchen table without access to the right resources. Then you’ve got the three-four partner firms that tend to send out the trainees to look after small businesses. And finally there are the bigger firms that don’t really want to work with small business clients because they can’t charge enough,” says David Paulson, senior manager of international franchising at TaxAssist. “So John set up a national network looking after small businesses, which operated purely as a franchise from day one.”

The company now has 195 franchisees that collectively look after 54,000 small business clients globally and has annual billings last year of £35m. It is the largest network of accountants specialising in servicing small businesses in the UK. Westgarth may have sold his stake in a management buyout in September of last year – in a rather unique deal that saw 32% of the company now owned by franchisees themselves and 53% by senior management – but the work he started looks long set to continue.

TaxAssist’s overseas ventures began a stone’s throw away in February 2009. “We launched a master franchise in Ireland as the testbed and we treated them as if they were 3,000 miles away,” says Paulson. “We got on the plane every week as we would for the Canadians further down the line.”

Ireland was the natural choice for such a litmus test. It’s close enough that Paulson and his team could nip over to help with anything. They also speak the language and, culturally-speaking, Ireland is similar enough that it’s within TaxAssist’s comfort zone.

June 2015 elitefranchise 37

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28/05/2015 23:07

The Interface Financial Group

An ‘in-demand’ Financial Service

Low Capital Start-up

40+ year-old Organization

GREAT REASONS

We work with you on every transaction

Home-based

to join ifg

You set the timetable (think Bankers’ hours)

No cold calling/telemarketing/advertising

even more REASONS...

Training

Support

Experience

R.O.I

0845 834 0332 ifg@interfacefinancial.com www.interfacefinancial.co.uk

OPTION 2.indd 1

20/05/2015 14:16

INTERNATIONAL

£ With a recession on both sides of the Irish Sea, 2009 was was a difficult year for expansion. “Despite the odds, the Irish master franchisee now has 26 franchisees in their network and growth is very strong,” says Paulson. So strong, in fact, that the Irish are now looking to expand TaxAssist into Scandinavia and northern Europe. “In Ireland, they now have more than enough resources to support themselves and they want to carry on developing the franchise side so we’re now looking to do a joint venture and we’re very excited about it.”

From there the plan is to take it slowly, before eventually moving into France and Germany, which have much larger populations. “We’ve really got to be ready for it when the time comes, so going to Sweden first, for instance, with its population of nine million, is more of a gradual roll-out.”

In the meantime, TaxAssist has its work cut out in Canada and Australia, which is where the focus has been for the last year. “They’re part of the Commonwealth so we have a natural affiliation there,” says Paulson. “We’ve got to work in areas with a strong tax

Despite the odds, the Irish master franchisee now has 26 franchisees

system; it’s not strong enough in the Middle East or in the weaker economies of Europe, which just aren’t viable at the moment but could be in the future.”

Australia and Canada have both weathered the global recession very well and have very strong economies and banking systems but, more importantly, they are countries with a lot of small businesses that need to have their tax returns filed and have their accounts done. “We know there’s a large demand for our services as there are no national brands doing exactly what we do.”

In Canada, rather than going nationwide, TaxAssist is working on a regional master franchise basis. “We’ve broken it down by provinces with populations of around four million and up,” explains Paulson. “Over the last 12 months we’ve been training a master franchisee who will be responsible for the greater area of Ontario – a territory of six million – which allows her a network of around 50 to 60 franchisees.”

Adapting to the law in a different country is always a challenge, especially when it comes to finance. “It’s been a long process over the last 12 months making adjustments to all our materials for the Canadian market,” says Paulson.

“If we just went with everything written how we’ve got it here in the UK, we’d be entering that market as a UK company; what we want to do is enter that market with the feel of a Canadian company so we’ve adjusted our branding to suit the Canadian market because that all goes June 2015 elitefranchise 39

Tomorrow, the world.indd 2

28/05/2015 23:08

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Want in on our success?

By this time tomorrow, someone will possibly own a White Box Photography franchise. Why not make that somebody you?

Y

ou’ve dreamed of starting a business. So have we.

You’re tired of working for others. So were we. You don’t want another job. We know how you feel. That’s why the White Box Photography franchise is beginning to break the industry mold. We are starting to stand out as one of the north’s leading affordable family portraiture companies. We make lots of noise about our copyright free policy on every image we take, and we drive our competition crazy with free taster sessions for all mums with newborns.

What’s more, this year we’re prepared to open a new area every week, for the next year.

Want in on our success? Find out how you can start your own business with a White Box Photography franchise, today!

Who we are

White Box Photography was set up seven years ago to bring fun affordable photography to thousands of families across the north of England. Already established in various cities across the M62 corridor, our aim is to become the UK’s premier family portraiture specialist.

We pride ourselves on being different. More than 5000 families have already said ‘yes’ to a White Box Family portraiture session so far.

All of them paid one fixed price, and all of them walked away with a copyright free CD of images and written

permission to get as many images printed as they liked. Right now that’s unique in the UK. A White Box Family portraiture session is a mix of contemporary and traditional style of photography which can be a fun, tearful, romantic experience. All of our photographers attend a bootcamp where we teach pose construction techniques that allow them to get the very best from their session. Our aim is to offer a highstandard professional, well-trained, DBS checked photographer who can take stunning pictures.

We also provide photography in a number of playgroups, nurseries, primary schools and academies as well as other charitable organisations.

Who are we looking for?

There are two clear options available for the right person. Firstly, there’s a master franchisee where you get to run your own regional territory such as the South East, London or South West and at the very least work with five single White Box Photography units. Photographic and business knowledge is essential to be considered for this option.

Our most popular route is franchisee where you get to run your own single White Box Photography unit.

If you are someone with lots of get-upand-go, enthusiasm, a desire to work for yourself and, most importantly, a commitment to succeed, then we’d love to hear from you. Typically our franchise opportunities suit highly motivated individuals or couples keen to shape a new, full-time career.

No previous experience is necessary to run the single White Box unit.

Photographic training along with a comprehensive business plan and essential marketing instruction is given.

White Box Photography has a tremendous franchise package but we’ll only tell you about it once you’ve passed our screening and have demonstrated that you can meet our criteria. Sound fair? We think so.

Call Now 0113 2555 193 or email chris@whiteboxphotography.co.uk Master Franchisee Areas: London, South East, South West Single Unit Ready-To-Go Franchisee Areas: Manchester, Sheffield, Huddersfield, Hull

40 elitefranchise June 2015

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28/05/2015 16:33

INTERNATIONAL

down better when it comes to recruiting actual franchisees on a local level.”

TaxAssist is a full member of the Canadian Franchise Association – not to mention the British Franchise Association and the Franchise Council of Australia – which also helps when recruiting. “These organisations can facilitate introductions for us, which really helps to fast-track things,” says Paulson. With the help of UKTI and BIS, TaxAssist was also able to conduct market research in all their target countries through local embassies. “That’s been a very good market reference tool,” Paulson adds.

The level of talent in Canada, as in Australia, is superb. “In terms of professional services and chartered accountants, there’s lots of them out there who have had very good careers and are looking to make that move now into being self-employed.” With the level of talent being so high, it can be a real challenge actually deciding who to work with.

“In Canada we went with someone with a very strong business background who is used to managing large enterprises,” says Paulson.

“The thought there is that we’d have someone

with the management skills and expertise to look after the network of franchisees. It is quite a unique thing managing that franchiseefranchisor relationship, so we needed someone who has that mentoring and coaching experience so they can really advise those franchisees on that local level.”

In Australia, TaxAssist has taken a bit of a different approach. “We’ve actually taken a firm of accountants that’s got six branches already,” says Paulson. “We’re going to convert those six branches to a TaxAssist and they’ll hit the ground running and start recruiting franchisees. Moving forward, it would be our preference to take on a small firm that has already got an established shop, store or regional commercial property and convert them to TaxAssist before they become the franchisor.”

They’ll have the local tax knowledge and TaxAssist will train them to be the franchisor.

Of course, when looking for franchisees and going to franchise fairs abroad, it certainly helps that TaxAssist has some industry awards under its belt, not just for franchising but for accounting as well. Among other awards, it received the Franchise of the Year award back in 2010 and has been nominated again for the award this year. “Things like that really help rubber stamp us as a brand.”

So what does the future hold for TaxAssist? First and foremost is growth at home, where it hopes to grow its base of 200 UK franchises to 300. It then wants to establish more master franchises in Canada, which it hopes will act as a launch pad for business into the US, which will be its biggest challenge and market yet.

“Worldwide, we want to grow to 20 regional franchisees, each of those looking after 50-60 franchisees within their territory,” says Paulson. “In short, global domination is what we want.”

We’ve got to work in areas with a strong tax system

June 2015 elitefranchise 41

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28/05/2015 23:08

THERE ARE REWARDS FOR

PERSEVERANCE. We understand that success can be hard work for franchise businesses, but all the sweeter for it.

WORKING IN PARTNERSHIP WITH

Franchisor Insurance Contact Maurice Logie at Moreland Insurance Brokers 01698 456500 maurice@morelandinsurance.com

W.S Moreland & Co Ltd and Hiscox Underwriting Ltd are authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. 14134 01/15

EliteFranchise0615.indd 1

20/05/2015 14:40

FINANCE

A fond farewell There are many boxes that need to be ticked if a franchisor is to make a successful exit, says Brian Duckett, chairman of the Franchising Centre

I

t all started when a franchisor, who I knew well, phoned me one day saying, “Brian, I’ve had enough and I want to sell the business. That’s company-owned outlets, franchisees, everything. Can you help me find a buyer?”

“Well yes of course,” I said. “We’re always in contact with experienced and qualified people who want to buy master franchises from overseas to start from scratch or to acquire existing networks in the UK that they can build to greater success. Have you had the business valued and what’s your timescale?”

“I haven’t really thought about how much I want for it, though it must be worth a couple of million at least. As for timing, I’d like to be out by the end of next month”.

That’s when my heart sank. As I explained to my friend, you won’t get anything like what the business is worth if you haven’t planned the sales process well in advance, ideally at least two to three years before you want to complete the transaction. Anything that looks like a fire-sale or desperation to be gone may not attract any interest at all. If it does, it will be from someone who will drive a very hard bargain and there will be no value at all for the seller.

Of course, with nearly forty years in franchising behind me, that wasn’t the first time I’d had a similar request but we seem to get more and more these days. So I looked into how a relatively simple yet effective process could be developed to help franchisors grow the value of their business, while preparing it for sale sometime in the near or distant future. After all you wouldn’t sell a car without having it valeted, a house without tidying it up or indeed a horse without getting it fit and shining its hooves.

June 2015 elitefranchise 43

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28/05/2015 23:10

Are you looking for a flexible, efficient & highly rewarding Accountancy Franchise?

Are you a Bookkeeper or Accountant?

Current job not paying enough?

Want a better work life balance?

You want to earn much more than your current income?

DNS Accountants offer the perfect Franchise solution!

There are many reasons to choose a DNS Accountants Franchise, from our Free Award Nominated Accounting Software to providing support in IT, marketing, running the practice and answering those technical accounting questions! Below is a summary of some of the many reasons why we are offering you great value for your money.

✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔

Award Winning Business Proven Sales Program and Leads Free Accounting & CRM Software Large Marketing Territory Full Training & Unlimited Support IT Set-up, Back-up & Support Value Added Services Dedicated Account Manager Low Overhead, Zero Risk Solution

So what are the next steps to becoming a DNS Accountants Franchise owner? It’s very easy, either call us on 020 7148 1706 or email us at info@dnsaccountantsfranchise.co.uk with the following information: your full name, address, telephone number and the region you are interested in.

www.dnsaccountantsfranchise.co.uk

DNS Accountants_FP_June.indd 1

28/05/2015 09:47

FINANCE

My first port of call was a firm of consultantsto-consultants, which I knew had developed a similar process for businesses such as my own. They understood how consulting businesses work and how they can be improved, they knew what buyers of such businesses were looking for; and they knew how to put the two together at the right time. We subjected ourselves to their process, which in itself was a valuable exercise and then discussed how we could adapt it for the franchising community. After all, we know how franchised businesses work and how they can be improved, we know what buyers of such businesses are looking for, and we know how to put the two together at the right time.

To cut a long story short, it’s a benchmarking process called Value Builder, which measures a number of key performance indicators that are specific to the successful operation of a franchised network. The point of the exercise is to establish where the business currently stands in comparison to how it will need to score if it is to achieve the gross and net profit figures that will produce the desired selling price.

Over an initial meeting, which can take a couple of days, we take the franchisor’s senior team through something like 80 questions related to how they recruit, train, monitor and motivate their franchisees.

Areas covered include how well their system has been documented; how well they’ve protected their intellectual property; the efficiency of their franchise marketing and recruitment; how effectively their franchisees operate; how both the franchisor and franchisees can increase their revenues and profits; and how well qualified and effective the management team is. Of course, the latter point is of particular interest to a buyer, particularly the sort of corporate entity that will have the funds you’ll be looking for.

The franchisor and his colleagues are encouraged to score themselves for each of the questions, with our facilitator questioning and cajoling them to change their minds based on what we know about theirs and many similar businesses. Scores are subsequently transposed into a speedometer-style, traffic-light related graphic whereby green means we’re okay but could improve in time; amber means we’re not too good and will need to address these items; and red means we’d better do something pretty soon or we’ll be in serious trouble. The final output of this first stage of work is a prioritised action plan which details what needs to be done, when it should be done by, who is going to do it and what it will cost.

No doubt we’ve all been through something similar in the past where someone has drawn up a

ole h e w s has h T ces d e i r o pr e car he t to b with ust r out ost t the utm ween bet ties pa r

June 2015 elitefranchise 45

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28/05/2015 23:10

Property Franchise Group

Territories available throughout the UK Territories available as cold start and resales across the UK under 5 brands With nearly 300 successful offices operating across the UK we have a wealth of expertise to help you be a success in the property sector.

Grow a valuable business with the 4th biggest estate agency and lettings business in the UK, 2nd largest in London.*

To find out how you can be as successful as Peter and Rani, visit www.propertyfranchise.co.uk

01202 292829 propertyfranchise@martinco.com Martin&Co FP June15.indd 1

“My partner and I previously worked for a national pub company in recruitment, training and customer service. We decided we wanted to take on a new challenge, setting up a property business. Within 2 years we broke even! Day-to-day business is fast paced and dynamic, something we both enjoy and we have already opened a 2nd office. Our aim is to continue to grow and we have already completed on an acquisition which has taken our managed portfolio to over 400 properties. Being able to provide a sales service has made a big difference to our profitability and it is just the icing on the cake! In years to come we will have a business with a substantial asset value, providing many options for our future.�

Peter and Rani Grieve, Worcester and Gloucester, Franchise Owners

* Based on number of offices

29/05/2015 11:48

FINANCE

plan but very little happened after that. In my experience the value of such a process is greatly enhanced when the franchisor engages us to drive progress towards implementing the action plan, with regular review meetings and intermittent telephone and e-mail contact with the various members of the team. People will often do more when a third-party is involved; indeed the chairman of a multi-million pound business once said to me at one of their review meetings, “I’ll admit to you Brian that if you hadn’t been coming today I doubt if any of my actions would have been completed.”

So how does all this help with a franchisor’s exit plan?

Firstly it focuses the mind on the desired outcome, for example “to achieve a sale price of £3 million by the end of 2017”.

Secondly, it anticipates all the questions that a buyer will ask or the items they will want to consider in order to get the price down. In effect, the seller is doing in advance the due diligence that the buyer will eventually do, enabling the former to put right all the things that the latter will attempt to pick holes in, thus making it harder to reduce the amount offered.

Thirdly, it continually improves the performance of the franchisor’s business and steadily increases their revenues and profits, so there are benefits that can be taken along the way even if the opportunity to sell doesn’t arise. The good news is that if someone comes looking to acquire the business you’ll be ready, even if you haven’t yet actively marketed it.

Brian Duckett, chairman, Franchising Centre

You won’t get anything like what the business is worth if you haven’t planned the sale process well in advance

It’s no secret that there are several organisations currently interested in acquiring franchised networks to build a stable of such businesses. They have the skills to build franchised networks and can provide a centralised service to provide the necessary recruitment and support functions, regardless of the end product or service which the franchisees will deliver. We are in regular contact with them, we know what they’re looking for and they will listen when we say we have something which may interest them. They may have to pay a little more for a business which we have prepared for sale but they are more likely to buy it than one which may have a number of skeletons in the cupboard.

Naturally the whole process has to be carried out with the utmost trust between the parties and confidentiality from anyone who doesn’t “need to know”. We don’t want any staff members or franchisees accidentally or purposely putting a spanner in the works, which is why I tend to be personally involved in these projects and should always be the first point of contact.

As one American franchisor once said to me, “When do you tell the franchisees and staff that the business is for sale? Not until the day after it’s been sold!”

June 2015 elitefranchise 47

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28/05/2015 23:10

REDSTONES Let's open doors Become part of a property franchise that has more open doors than any other on the market!

Are you considering running your own estate agency business?

The dilemma potential franchisees often face is which franchise they should choose...

The total cost of a Redstones office turnkey solution is £20,000 - £25,000, including a franchise fee of £14,995, training, equipment, software, marketing support, business launch, car livery, your own Redstones local micro site, TO LET boards, in fact everything you need apart from working capital and vehicle deposit.

Why should you choose Redstone Lettings?

• • • • • • • • • •

A strong, recognisable brand name Excellent value for your investment Comprehensive training Extensive ongoing support Redstones’ Platinum Total Care Redstones’ ‘Switch Agent’ programme An optional rent collection and credit control Up-to-date online marketing strategies Outstanding service for residential sales clients 0% Commission Fees

With a proven track record in a competitive market place, Redstones offers an outstanding franchise opportunity!

Tel: 01922 235 350 | www.redstonesfranchise.co.uk Redstone lettings_FP.indd 1

21/05/2015 09:26

Offer customers the best clean ever

Having your carpets cleaned? would you like...

No soggy carpets or wet dog smell How many people do think would agree with you?

Our Franchises cleaned carpets and upholstery in over 11,000 homes last year. Gone are the days of the traditional wet outdated methods.

Zero Dry Time, Safe non-toxic for both pets and children, no need to open the windows remove furniture or keep heating on until dry.

As part of our service, we will also stain guard your carpets for FREE, spills will wipe off easy. Carpets & Upholstery will stay clean and last longer. And all we leave.... is fresh clean carpets that look and smell great.

Call now, Join our Team of ever growing Franchises TEL: 0191 270 9202 | E: info@zerodrytime.com | W: www.zerodrytime.com Zero dry time_FP_June.indd 1

28/05/2015 18:25

SALES & MARKETING

Standing out Exhibitions can be highly rewarding for a franchisor and can attract a wealth of potential franchisees. But how can a franchisor make an exhibition work for their brand?

WORDS: JADE SAUNDERS

E

xhibitions are part and parcel of everyday life for franchisors and franchisees. Somewhere in the UK, at any given time, you can be pretty sure there are people working their way around a large indoor space and seeing if there are any franchise opportunities that take their fancy.

For franchisors, exhibitions are a great opportunity to recruit new franchisees. But there are no guarantees. In order to achieve their exhibition goals, franchisors have to take many things into consideration.

First, a franchisor will need to establish what exhibitions work for them.

Finding the right franchise exhibition can often be time consuming but doing your homework beforehand can prevent a franchisor investing in an exhibition that doesn’t represent what its brand stands for. Before loosening the purse strings and spending often a few pretty pennies on an exhibition, a little due diligence can go a long way.

Attending an exhibition yourself can give a rough idea of what to expect and can also set the bar for the standard an exhibition stand needs to be in order to capture the crowd’s attention. Polly Smalley, operations manager of Green Square, the renewable energy franchise, attends exhibitions personally to get an idea of footfall and space. “I do this so that before I book a stand I know in my head where we are going to be and what sort of footfall we are going to get,” she reveals.

Trial and error can also be an effective route to find the right exhibitions for your brand but this method can sometimes prove expensive. “We’ve done a couple of smaller regional ones but they have not been as effective for us,” admits Graham Duckworth, franchise sales director at Driver Hire. It’s often the main exhibitions that give franchises the best exposure

but this comes with a higher price tag.

For some franchises, just making its presence known is reason enough to appear at an exhibition. David Banfield, president of The Interface Financial Group regards exhibitions as a great way to make a franchise reputable and well-known amongst other franchisors, recruits and potential clients. “We’ll also look at major events where we can get the opportunity to do what we describe as flag waving,” says Banfield.

Shelling out for an exhibition can be costly for a new franchisor and Banfield advises franshisors to give haggling a shot. “Always negotiate the price. Show organisers say, ‘this is the price: take it or leave it,’ but in reality this isn’t true,” Banfield points out. “There are packages and there are prices so always negotiate the price and look for a package which may include advertising in the show material or on its website.”

Exhibitions don’t always come cheap and, if you want to compete with the big boys, you’ll need to be seen. When haggling a good price with an organiser, bear in mind the best spots to capture the crowds. Often, the earlier you book, the higher the chance you can pick a space.

50 elitefranchise June 2015

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SALES & MARKETING

Some might assume that being placed near the entrance of an event is best but they then run the risk that visitors will bypass the first stalls when venturing into the crowds. Researching the venue yourself beforehand can offer an insight into the busier spots at an event.

“We tend to make sure we have a good sized stand in a prominent location that is normally down the corridor fromm the main doors ,” reveals Duckworth. Driver Hire regularly appears at the main exhibitions and Duckworth advises that getting a good spot every year can be achieved by planning a year in advance to budget for the exhibition.

After booking a space at an exhibition, franchisors need to have all hands on deck to let people know about their exhibition presence. With a wealth of free and low-cost marketing tools at a franchisor’s fingertips, getting the word out to potential franchisees before an exhibition has never been easier.

Making your presence known begins as soon as a franchisor commits to an exhibition and for Michelle Fenwick, director of Heritage Healthcare, marketing starts 12 weeks before the exhibition. “We do e-shots on a monthly basis and at least three e-shots prior to an exhibition,” says Fenwick. “These e-shots will be announcing that we are attending the exhibition and also what stand we are on, so that it’s a bit easier to find us.” Heritage Healthcare also markets free tickets through its e-shots, another cost-effective marketing tool to drive the footfall to your exhibition stand.

Tapping into the wealth of potential recruits on a database is arguably the easiest way to entice prospective franchisees and, for Driver Hire, its database will all receive word of any opportunities to meet the faces behind the brand. “We build up a database of everybody that has made an enquiry into Driver Hire before we go to any franchise event and we’ll send quite an attractive HTMLDavid Banfield, style email to our database just to make them The Interface Financial Group aware that we are going,” explains Duckworth.

Creating a buzz about an exhibition presence on social media platforms both before and during an exhibition can drive people to your stand. “Our marketing executive tweets prior to the exhibition and he tweets continuously while we are at the exhibition,” says Fenwick.

In an event full of other well-known franchisors, your exhibition needs

Always negotiate the price. Show organisers say, ‘this is the price: take it or leave it,’ but in reality this isn’t true

June 2015 elitefranchise 51

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Franchise insurance with style

From franchise businesses to fashion designers, insurance is essential for every business.

Allianz Insurance plc provides a range of mid-corporate insurance solutions that can be tailored to suit your needs.

To find out more contact: Maurice Logie Moreland Insurance Brokers maurice@morelandinsurance.com

01698 456500

www.morelandinsurance.co.uk

ACOM6541 04.15

UNDERWRIT TEN BY

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Allianz Insurance plc is authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority. Financial Services Register number 121849.

W.S. Moreland & Co Ltd is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and our registration number is 304481. Moreland Insurance Brokers is not part of the Allianz group of companies. Allianz Insurance commercial insurance products are available from other insurance intermediaries.

EliteFranchise0615.indd 1

20/05/2015 14:39

SALES & MARKETING

Having somebody there that has been successful through your support and through what you have done is very valuable to us as a franchisor Michelle Fenwick, Heritage Healthcare

to stand out and capture the attention of attendees. Green Square brings some of the products that its franchisees will be selling. As a new and unique franchise, its products are its standout. “It’s very important to us that we try and market anything at an exhibition that is unique to us and that sets us aside from the other brands that are there and provide the same type of franchise as us,” says Fenwick.

Fenwick herself is the only person in the country in the franchise care sector that holds a QFP (Qualified Franchise Professional) qualification. Heritage Healthcare is therefore able to promote this as a unique element of support that it can offer to franchisees.

Heritage Healthcare also maintains that having the franchise directors present to talk to prospective franchisees is essential to allow them to learn more about the brand.

More importantly, Fenwick advises that having an existing franchisee present at an exhibition to endorse the franchise is crucial. “Having somebody there that has been successful through your support and through what you have done is very valuable to us as a franchisor and very valuable to those that need to make that decision.”

Driver Hire also finds it useful to have a franchisee present.

“We want the franchisee to talk very openly about the good parts of the business and also what can be a challenge,” explains Duckworth. “We try to give people a very rounded view of what running a Driver Hire franchise is like so that they go into it with their eyes wide open.”

Once you have the attention of attendees, engaging with them and capturing the appropriate information is paramount. Banfield advises that using a barcode scanner to scan badges and digitally capture information is the quickest option. However, if this option is unavailable, Banfield highlights that it is essential to have enough staff present at the exhibition to capture information.

After the exhibition is over, it’s time to communicate with all attendees who provided their information and requested further information about the franchise. Fenwick and her team send information in real time to the marketing team to communicate with potential leads before that person gets home that evening. Being quick off the mark to send over information and thank potential franchisees is essential to Heritage Healthcare. “We feel that puts us ahead of some of the competitors at a franchise exhibition.”

If a franchisor does not put the continued graft in after to support potential franchisees, the hefty investment into an exhibition can be diminished. “You must put the effort in to match the cost because if you don’t put that effort in, your return on that investment isn’t going to be very good,” warns Fenwick. “We have achieved at least one franchisee from every exhibition so it’s definitely worthwhile being there,” she advises. “It is great fun but it is hard work.”

June 2015 elitefranchise 53

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PEOPLE

Time to discover There are many places to look when it comes to identifying your favoured franchise. But it’s at discovery days where people find out if franchising really is their calling. Nigel Toplis, managing director of the Bardon Group, gives us the lowdown on how to make the most of these events

B

oth franchisors and prospective franchisees use different methods and different media to recruit franchisees and to seek out the right opportunities. All have their place and all offer different benefits to prospective franchisees. In my 22 years in franchising – I started straight from school – I have probably utilised most if not every form of franchise communication going. Three channels strike me as worthy of special mention.

Magazines are useful because they allow you to look at a crosssection of franchises, in your own time, with no disturbances. In addition, they provide independent editorial giving hints, tips and advice, which is often useful when one is considering the labyrinth that is franchising.

Exhibitions and shows provide another means of learning about different franchises but with the added benefit of being able to talk to a number of franchisors over a short space of time. Exhibitions offer the ultimate opportunity to collect a lot of base information across a spectrum of franchises in a relatively short space of time.

To maximise the value of going to an exhibition you should do some pre-planning. Gathering information is all well and good but it’s better to gather more information about franchises that might suit you.

Before you go to the exhibition set some basic parameters. List out the type of business you think you would enjoy – ‘on the road’; ‘outside in all weathers’; retail; business to business; consultant – then set yourself a budget. What realistically can you afford? Don’t overstretch yourself.

Just by doing these two simple things you will have narrowed the field down and given yourself more time to spend with companies that at least meet your initial criteria.

Franchise websites have sprung up like weeds in a freshly ploughed

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ELECTRONIC CIGARETTES & JUICE BAR

Become a Vaperz franchisee today!

 Step into one of the world’s most exciting and fastest growing markets  Est. $10billion market by 2017  A leading UK Brand in e-cigs  Patent pending holders of the world’s first solar-powered e-cig – the SolaWand  Conscientiously developed non-toxic e-liquids  Run two businesses off of one premises and get 2 thriving businesses for 1  Eye-catching and classy branding on both products and premises  Become a regional franchise owner, supplying small shops and local business in your satellite region  Stunning, dynamic shop designs

For more information please call us on:

07850 184 623 or email: claire@vaperz.co.uk www.vaperz.co.uk

Vaperz | 16a Lime Street, Bedford, MK40 1LD

EliteFranchise0615.indd 1

Vaperz

JUICE BAR & ELECTRONIC CIGARETTES

JUICE BAR & ELECTRONIC CIGARETTES

28/05/2015 16:35

The Big Questions What to ask franchisors field. There are so many sites to look at that I’ve often heard them described as the hemorrhoids of modern communication. That said, there are some good sites that allow you to surf at your own speed and get to know each and every one of your selected franchises.

The bfa website in particular is a very useful and popular point of reference. As well as giving you lots of information on each member franchise, it has the incalculable advantage of featuring only bfa members. Anyone looking for a franchise knows that every franchisor on the bfa website is accredited and approved.

Discovery days

As a franchisor I have used discovery days for both our education franchise, ComputerXplorers and for Recognition Express, which is a long established B2B business.

For the franchisor, they can be a very cost effective way of getting your message across.

The franchisor can attract a host of interested people to one location on one day with some existing franchisees and can do a whole

To get the most out of going to a discovery day, it helps to have a plan for the day

series of ‘show and tell’ sessions and answer questions across the board. Discovery days also allow the franchisor to be more personal with people and meet prospective franchisees on a more one-to-one level – as opposed to exhibitions where most of the meetings tend to be fleeting.

Discovery days also offer a number of benefits to prospective franchisees. Not only do they give them an opportunity to spend some time with the franchisor and existing franchisees but it’s also a brilliant chance for them to ask questions and listen to the answers to questions from other franchisees. There is also no commitment required on behalf of the franchisee and they can be as anonymous, or as direct and personal, as they wish.

At our discovery days we have found that the greatest benefit is getting prospective franchisees to meet both with other prospective franchisees and existing franchisees in a non-threatening environment.

However, to get the most out of going to a discovery day, it helps to have a plan for the day. If you are a potential franchisee, you need to decide why you are going and what you want to get out of the day – simply going along to ‘get more information’ is not good enough and probably indicates that really and truly you are not committed to running and owning your own business.

You will certainly have the opportunity to question the franchisor and most likely existing franchisees – so prepare a set of questions that you need the answers to. These questions should reveal the scope, success, opportunity and challenges of the business.

At the end of the day you will be investing in the system more than anything else. If the current franchisees are following it, enjoying it and making and good profit from it, you could do the same.

Profitability Ask for three years’ reports and accounts Knowledge Enquire about the market and any market trends Success How long has it been in business and how successfully?

Vision Is it a serious player or full of platitudes?

Support Ask to see detailed support plans. Are you forced to buy company product?

Does it have the manpower and intellect in each key business area?

Chemistry Do you like the franchisor and head office team? Could you see yourself working with the company and will it be able to deliver on its promises?

What to ask franchisees

• Are you making money?

• Do you get on with the other franchisees?

• Has the business affected your family life?

• Does the franchisor offer good support?

• Are you lonely?

• Do you enjoy the business?

• Is the business giving you what you expected when you first came on board?

• Is your family still supportive?

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28/05/2015 23:15

Do you long to be your own boss?

Make more money? Have more free time? Secure your future?

We will help you build and run a profitable business, using a proven model in the still new and growing industry of outsourcing. A franchise where you employ others to do valuable work for both large and small businesses.

You will grow as your client portfolio expands, leaving you free to pursue your goals and dreams.

Benefits:

• Keep your costs to a minimum while helping you grow • Limit the time you spend on operational matters that hinder growth and profitability • Help you establish a business, not a job, that runs itself when you’re not there • Create an asset that you can use to support your lifestyle or sell on when the time is right

So .... What are you waiting for?

Call 01279 276200 and ask for Alan or Kaye email alan.hopgood@zebpa.co.uk Zeb PA June15 FP.indd 1

www.zebpafranchise.co.uk 20/05/2015 14:44

PEOPLE

Learning

the ropes A comprehensive training package is the best way to ensure franchisees have a real handle on the inner workings of your franchise

WORDS: Josh russell

W

hen first franchising a business, a huge amount of attention is paid to creating the franchise model, running the pilot and trying to get the first franchisee lined up. But during this flurry of activity there is one element that no franchisor can afford to overlook. Putting together a comprehensive training package is fundamental to a new franchise’s success.

There are several reasons why training is so important to the world of franchising. First of all, the health of a franchise’s network depends on its franchisees being able to draw down meaningful returns on their investment. “As a new franchisor, it’s really important to make sure your first few franchisees are going to be successful,” says Tom Meredith, MD of Your FD, the franchise that hooks up business with trained accountants and financial directors.

Inevitably their success will be dependent on how effectively the franchisor educates them on the ins and outs of its model. “You’ve got to

make sure that you’re getting the basics of the franchise set out from the start,” he says.

But there is a more fundamental reason why an effective training package is a vital consideration for new franchises. “All of the best franchise systems are founded on a proven, replicable model,” says Alan Gibson, a franchise consultant at The Franchising Centre. Creating a consistent standard across its operation is one of the core tenets of franchising, especially when that operation might one day include several hundred franchisees. An effective, systematic training programme is absolutely vital for creating a constant brand.

Given these processes and procedures are very much a part of a franchise’s secret sauce, an operations manual that pulls these ingredients together is a key part of any franchise package. Whilst the operations manual will typically cover a broad range of elements – running from marketing and

service delivery to the practicalities of setting up a franchise and business planning – franchisors shouldn’t risk glossing over things just because they seem obvious. “A common trap that new franchisors fall into is assuming franchisees will know things without being taught,” Gibson says. “The training programme should [deliver] all the core skills needed to operate the business.”

But whilst it’s essential franchisors make sure new franchisees have everything they need to get off the ground, dumping a brick of an operations manual in front of a new franchisee is unlikely to make them want to tuck in. As an alternative, Gibson suggests franchisors design operations manuals in a way that’s easy to read and supplement them with online platforms that deliver video guidelines, interactive questionnaires and searchable content. “A well-written, easy-todigest operations manual is worth its weight in gold,” he says.

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PEOPLE

Money matters

Yet even the most engaging interactive ops manual in the world isn’t going to give a franchisee everything they need to run a franchise. For this reason, a structured programme based at a franchise’s headquarters is required. “Delivering training at the franchisor’s head office provides both parties with a number of benefits,” Gibson says. Not only does it help franchisees learn how to launch their business, recruit their team and start delivering the product or service but it Once a new franchise has opened its doors, also helps them to build effective working it might be tempting to hang up the ‘mission relationships with the support team and fellow accomplished’ banner and assume your work franchisees. is done. But expecting franchisees to have Whilst headquarters absorbed everything first training can offer time is a little unrealistic. franchisees a good “The tendency can be to theoretical overview of a overwhelm new franchisees franchise’s model, getting with initial training and to grips with the day-to-day expect them to swallow running of the business the elephant in one go,” requires training that’s a says Gibson. Instead of little more hands-on. “The throwing everything at the majority of franchisors wall and seeing what sticks, will deliver a structured franchisors need to be programme of on-the-job prepared to revisit training training,” says Gibson. as and when required.

In allowing them to get Although putting together first-hand experience of a comprehensive training delivering the product or package is an important step service to the consumer, for any franchise, Gibson Alan Gibson, The Franchising Centre on-site training helps is keen to stress that there firmly cement everything is room to consult with the franchisee has learned your first few franchisees so far. “It provides the franchisee with an and adapt it as you go. “If you’re a brand new opportunity to put what they have learnt so far franchisor, you’ve got to start somewhere,” he into action in a real-life environment,” Gibson says. “You don’t have to build a Rolls Royce explains. before the rubber meets the road.”

A common trap that new franchisors fall into is assuming franchisees will know things without being taught

Given Your FD is aimed at providing first-rate accounting and financial support, it’s hardly surprising that training forms a vital role in ensuring it maintains a high-quality service.

“We’re allying our brand against high-quality accountancy and tax advice,” says Tom Meredith, MD of the franchise. “Training plays quite a large part in making sure that franchisees are living up to the brand image.”

When the franchise was trying to shape its training package, it started by looking at its model to build up an idea of what things franchisees would be doing each and every day.

“We worked out what the franchisee needed to be doing on a day-to-day basis,” says Meredith. “We worked backwards from that to say ‘what training do they need to enable them to do that?’” From this, Your FD created a two-week programme that covered four topics a day, running from basic bookkeeping to advanced corporation tax.

One of the things that Your FD believes is essential to an effective training package is a degree of adaptability. “Be flexible and be aware of franchisees’ demands,” says Meredith. The received logic in franchising is that making the model replicable means sticking to a one-size-fits-all approach. But when training franchisees, Meredith feels it is important to take into account the different ability levels and requirements of those you are teaching. “I wouldn’t want to run a training session whereby I was teaching someone to suck eggs,” he says. “Being able to adapt the training programme is really important.”

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TECHNOLOGY

SIZE MATTERS Franchises hold a wealth of big data that, when utilised, can tremendously boost their success

WORDS: JADE SAUNDERS

T

he world is producing data at a truly phenomenal rate, almost at the speed of light.

If all of the data in the world was burned onto DVDs and stacked up, those stacks would reach the moon – twice.

Data is getting bigger, so big that a rather unimaginative term was coined to emphasise just how big it is getting: big data. Nobody can decide exactly what big data is; however, it can mean one thing to one person but something completely different to the next.

Charlie Clark, CEO of Rosslyn Analytics, one of the global leaders in the world of data technologies, feels that big data doesn’t refer to the size of the data, despite its name. “It is the biggest load of marketing sizzle you could ever imagine,” he laughs.

However, it seems that most can agree that big data is made up of large data sets that require the attention of a data don or savvy system in order to analyse, store and capture data. The buzzword is taking centre stage in the world of digital analytics; many franchises are using it to make better business decisions and by doing so are increasing growth and revenue tremendously.

But what can a franchise do to capitalise on the colossal amount of data that it holds at its fingertips?

“The first thing is recognising that you have data.

Everybody does. Even if all you have got is personnel records, you’ve got data,” explains Dan Archer,

60 elitefranchise June 2015

franchise director of Red Flag Alert, the online business information bureau that helps business owners utilise their data to help businesses make informed decisions.

Red Flag Alert not only provides a service for other businesses to optimise data but it is also a prime example of a franchise that has made big data work for it. As an advocate of the systemisation and analysis of data within its own franchise, it has been able to expand into further territories and gather more clients.

“My franchisees are different to many franchisees in that every single franchisee at Red Flag Alert knows where every single one of their customers are,” says Archer. “Because that’s what we do: we understand which customers are the better customers to be dealing with.”

Creating the system yourself to manage big data will certainly give you the upper hand but with the number of affordable services out there rising, franchises have more opportunities than ever before to compete with the big boys and harness the power of big data.

“One of the mantras that we have in the business is that data is useless,” explains Archer. “If you organise it to make it easy to interrogate, it becomes information. If you make it relevant for a particular individual or organisation, then it becomes intelligence.”

TECHNOLOGY

Data will not reveal anything useful unless you mine it yourself. Clark feels that the best way to unlock the potential of data is to establish what exactly it is that you want to achieve; and growth will probably feature pretty high on the agenda. “If used correctly, data can greatly increase your chances of success,” he says. “Therefore, if a franchisor is able to have an analytics and data centre of excellence from which to service their franchisees, it’s going to be incredibly attractive for someone to then invest their money in buying a franchise.”

Big data is best digested when broken down into small chunks. But without a doubt, the most valuable data will come from a franchise’s customers. It could reveal things like spending habits, as well as what products or promotions work.

Getting into the heads of customers themselves is very difficult but it is possible through customer surveys and analysing the records of that customer’s spend within a franchise. “You want to be able to survey and track that customer in real time,” explains Clark. “If you are able to track in real time, you are going to have an advantage over all of the other companies trying to sell something to that customer.”

Data can also be analysed and augmented to create a unique profile on each customer. Combining that customer’s demographic profile, spending habits and the feedback from customer surveys can reveal exactly how to market to that customer in the future.

One often overlooked source of data is the data that comes from social media. The digital natives of today often take to Twitter and Facebook to rave about their latest meal or purchase and, by allowing franchises to sift through the lives of others, social media can produce volumes

If used correctly, data can greatly increase your chances of success Charlie Clark, Rosslyn Analytics

June 2015 elitefranchise 61

TECHNOLOGY

We don’t know how much you can do with the data because we just keep finding more and more things to do Miles Cook, Blurrt

of insightful data. “People are aware that there is some value in this data.

It is coming up on the radar and it is coming to the forefronts of people’s minds,” says Miles Cook, CTO of Blurrt, the analytics firm.

Cook reveals that truly unleashing the golden nuggets that lie within social data requires more than seeing that your franchise has lots of mentions. Cook advises that delving deeper into analytics and deciphering who has mentioned you, whether the mention is positive or negative and the different trends over a period of time can reveal a wealth of insightful

information to better market your product to the public.

Unlocking big data is tough but with the right system in place, franchises can gain an edge over competitors. But what must be understood is that data does change and with the rate that data is currently being produced, what is relevant now might not be relevant in a few months’ time.

The ever-changing data landscape that comes with growing technology capacity will require even the most beady-eyed franchises to constantly be on the ball.

With the world’s data constantly growing and new technologies being created at more affordable prices, franchises can learn more and more about data. The possibilities genuinely are endless. “We don’t know how much you can do with the data because we just keep finding more and more things to do,” explains Cook.

But gaining an insight will be all for nothing if you don’t act on your newfound knowledge.

Archer’s crucial tip to other franchises is to make sure that they use the insight that they have got in order to be more productive in business. “Its about organising your data correctly and augmenting it by bringing in extra information and extra insight,” he says.

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28/05/2015 23:19

A totally new and unique concept - the first of its kind in the UK

Stylish, funky and fresh!

The double award-winning VIP exclusive children’s party venue Popkidz EXCLUSIVE FDUK OFFER A special franchise fee offer for the first five franchisees through Franchise Direct.

A Popkidz franchise has the potential to produce a very attractive level of personal income and financial return on investment.

We have developed detailed financial models that we will share with you on moving forward with your franchise, which demonstrate that the Popkidz franchise system has the potential to provide a franchisee with a excellent income and a relaxed life style.

We will guide you all the way to sucess!

JOIN US ON OUR WAY TO BECOMING THE NUMBER ONE CHILDREN’S PARTY VENUE IN THE UK Email: Info@popkidz.co.uk Telephone: 01484 429771 www.popkidz.co.uk

063EliteFranchise0615.indd 1

28/05/2015 20:21

INVEST IN THE REAL GROWTH INDUSTRY We are looking for driven people to join us to grow our ever-developing brand

This franchise can be both van-based or a management franchise, however given the pilot’s growth in turnover, the latter is more likely.

MouldDoctor operates across the public and private sectors and private homeowners. Our market potential is huge and we want the right people to share our potential.

Customer service is a key driver in our business and our training will focus on that so that you become our area Mouldologist!

Training will involve a programme that includes a course at Head Office in Lincolnshire and on-site training at your premises.

As a new franchise, we are looking for our first tranche of franchisees and are very excited at the prospect of developing our team

MouldDoctor offers a unique opportunity to ambitious individuals to profit from a growing market sector. Mould is the scourge of the rented property sector and with ever increasing legislation regarding housing quality, this is an area that will only get bigger in the future.

Investment required £22-28k Sectors: Building maintenance, cleaning, home improvement, property, van-based Exhibitions: Landlord & Letting, Coventry, Show, Franchise Open Days, Doncaster & Sheffield

Are you a potential Mouldologist?

We are looking for aspirational business partners with the ‘get up and go’ mentality that matches that of our management team. If personal success, rewarding profits and a real sense of achievement are what drives you then you could be the right person for us.

0800 622 6227 | info@moulddoctor.co.uk | moulddoctor.co.uk

Ableworld

Franchise Opportunity Ableworld, one of the UK’s leading mobility and home care retailers, is looking to award a limited number of franchises for its successful retail and stairlift businesses.

According to government statistics, in 10 years time over 25 per cent of people will be aged over 65 and the figures for those over 80 and 90 are even more striking. Ableworld’s products and services are designed to capitalise on this growing market and you can capitalise too, as an Ableworld franchisee.

Franchisees will get: • Two integrated businesses for one price • The opportunity of earning up to £95,000 p.a. by Year 3 • Use of the Ableworld™ brand in an exclusive territory • A first class training and support programme

Franchisees will need: • Drive, energy and enthusiasm • A customer service mentality • A passion for helping people • The desire to want to run their own business in a growing market

HP Ad Place LHP.indd 1

For more information call

01270 627 185 or visit

www.ableworldfranchise.co.uk

28/05/2015 20:19

Ethical best practice in the UK franchise industry

The Franchise Alliance (TFA) has been created to deliver a combination of services to the franchise industry for franchisors, and franchisees.

Our services are predominately designed to simplify the interaction between franchisor and franchisee to create more productive relationships that benefit all parties.

Other organisations delivering similar accreditations are expensive, exclusive and often are unwilling to move away from their pre-set rigid criteria for joining.

Want to know more?

Feel free to call us for a friendly chat

0845 862 6767 Or email...

Just drop us a message at info@thefranchisealliance.org

www.thefranchisealliance.org TFA Full page Ad_April.indd 1

21/05/2015 09:30

Could you make a difference

to children and young people?

Find out more about this exciting and empowering franchise which changes the lives of young people and offers a lucrative business opportunity.

Download your free gift 13 Ways to increase confidence in Children tiny.cc/join-NLP4Kids

Contact us on 0203 667 7294

NLP4Kids full page_May.indd 1

21/05/2015 09:31

LEGAL

?

Consumer

unfriendly Franchisees risk not getting paid if they fail to comply with the new Consumer Contracts Regulations, warns Kate Legg, associate at Higgs & Sons

H

ow would you feel if you did some work for a customer but then discovered that you couldn’t get paid because you hadn’t followed correct procedures? Many businesses are unaware that they are risking exactly this scenario by not complying with the new Consumer Contracts Regulations, which were brought in last summer.

The Consumer Contracts Regulations were brought in following a European directive, with the intention of ensuring that consumers benefit from minimum levels of protection across Europe. Different rules apply depending on where and how a contract is formed. Specifically, the rules are more onerous if a contract is formed at the consumer’s home or online but less stringent if the contract is entered into at the trader’s premises.

In addition, the rules vary according to whether the business is supplying goods, such as kitchen units, stationery or car parts; services like garden maintenance or repair work; or digital products including ebooks or video downloads.

Admittedly, the new rules are complicated and implementing them may hamper the smooth closing of a sale but failure to comply could prove costly. At best, a business that does not follow the correct procedures may be unable to get paid for the work it has done; at worst, it risks a fine, bad publicity and being forced to contact all of its customers explaining that they have not complied and giving customers a right to cancel, even if the contract was concluded many months before.

What do you have to do?

Broadly, the regulations require traders to give consumers certain, minimum information before the contract is concluded. This includes confirming the identity of the trader, details of what the customer is buying and information on price and delivery.

In addition, they state that goods must normally be delivered within 30 days and they also outlaw the use of pre mium rate telephone lines for contacting the business about an existing contract.

Businesses that trade online, by mail order or at the customer’s premises will almost certainly need to review and update their terms and conditions to ensure that they comply with the new rules.

Cooling off

One of the most onerous parts of the regulations relate to the consumer’s rights to cancel. These apply to most contracts that are concluded either at a distance – by mail order, telephone or online – or ‘off-premises’, whether that’s at the customer’s home, work or anywhere other than the trader’s normal premises.

In these cases, the customer usually has a 14-day cooling off period when they can cancel the contract for a full refund. However, if the trader has not followed the correct procedures or told the customer that they have a right to cancel, then the cancellation period can be extended by up to a year.

Cancellation of service contracts

For businesses that supply services, the cooling off period can cause particular difficulties. Often, customers will want the supplier to start work straight away but if the supplier commences work before the 14day cooling off period has expired, then the customer could cancel the contract and not pay for the work done.

The way around this is to ensure that the customer gives an express, written request for the trader to start work immediately and waiving their rights to cancel. Traders should note that this request will only be effective if it is given in writing – a verbal request will not be sufficient. If a customer has given a written request to start work immediately, they still have a right to cancel during the cooling off period but will have to pay for the work done before the point of cancellation.

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28/05/2015 23:20

BE YOUR OWN BOSS We provide all you need to own your own commercial cleaning business!

Every day nearly 11,000 JAN-PRO owner-operators across the world bring our clients the kind of high quality service we not only promise, we guarantee. It’s a reflection of the commitment that comes from the best training, equipment and measurable processes available. More importantly though, it’s a commitment that begins with a positive attitude and a drive to always do better, and that is what makes JAN-PRO a different kind of commercial cleaning company.

Training - Guaranteed Customers - Financing - On-going Support The Processes Are Ours. The Benefits Are Yours.

• Jan-Pro Regional Directors provide all your sales, marketing and admin support • You choose your investment level and working hours - part time or full time • Training and ongoing coaching to help you build a business and your future • The Entrepreneur Magazine 2010 Report went on to rank JAN-PRO as the Fastest Growing Franchise globally • A JAN-PRO® franchise allows you to make investment decision that best suits you, and then provides you with all the systems, support services, and training you need to be successful

Industry Recognition for JAN-PRO In the latest Franchise 500 Awards Entrepreneur Magazine ranked JAN-PRO #1 in Commercial Cleaning and the Fastest Growing in Commercial Cleaning Overall. In addition JAN-PRO is the only franchise commercial cleaning company to have ever been ranked as the Fastest Growing for three consecutive years, 2008-2010.

No one Supports you Better To learn more about JAN-PRO, please visit: www.jan-pro.com or contact your local JAN-PRO repesentative Ann Mary Wardman 07933 753 228 email: annmary.wardman@jan-pro.com

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LEGAL

A well drafted set of terms and conditions will go a long way to helping businesses comply with the new rules

Cancellation of contracts for the sale of goods

The cancellation period for goods begins on the date the customer receives the goods. If goods are delivered in separate instalments, the clock won’t start running until the final instalment has been delivered and received.

If the customer cancels, they are entitled to return the goods to the supplier for a full refund. If the goods have been used or are damaged, then the trader can reduce the amount of the refund to reflect the reduction in the value of the goods – effectively refunding the ‘second hand’ value.

The general test here is that the customer is allowed to handle the goods to the extent that would be permitted in a store or showroom but the trader can reduce the refund if the customer has gone any further than this. For example, if a jigsaw is delivered in a cellophane wrapped box, wrapped in a further box, then the customer would be allowed to open the outer packaging but wouldn’t be able to rip the cellophane and open the inner box.

Bespoke or not bespoke – that is the question

There is often confusion over what constitutes ‘bespoke’ goods. If a product has been personalised for an individual customer, then there is no right to cancel. However, this only applies if the goods are truly bespoke to that specific customer – an item that is made to order after a customer has made a selection from various options in the supplier’s brochure will not be sufficient.

For example, if a customer chooses kitchen doors in a particular style and finish from the supplier’s standard range and the doors are then made to order, the customer will still have a right to cancel. However if the goods are made to fit a specific room in a non-standard size, then the goods are classed as bespoke and the customer would be unable to cancel.

Getting it right

Although the rules may seem confusing and, at times, cumbersome to implement, a well drafted set of terms and conditions will go a long way to helping businesses comply with the new rules. Once standard documents – and the systems to use them properly – are in place, businesses shouldn’t lose sleep over their consumer contracts.

However, for those businesses that ignore the rules, non-compliance could prove a costly mistake.

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FRANCHISE FOCUS

A-Star Sports

A-Star Sports is a multi award-winning children’s sports coaching franchise, specialising in delivering weekly classes, holiday clubs, parties and events direct to families. We offer an exciting opportunity to coach ten core sports and more, promoting the all-round benefits of sport and a lifelong commitment to being active.

Franchisees are offered a bespoke training programme but they all have three things in common – a passion for sport, an affinity with children and the drive to succeed in business.

• Low cost start-up at £12,500 (+ VAT) including equipment to deliver all levels of the programme (10 core sports) • Unique eight year coaching programme for children aged 2-10 years • Ongoing support with detailed business and coaching resources

Contact phone 0845 459 2210 | email: gary.bassett@a-starsports.co.uk | www.a-starsports.co.uk

Angela’s Swim School

Angela’s Swim School was started in 2002 by former Team GB, Commonwealth and European swimmer Angela Wilson and franchised in 2014. We started 9 franchises in our first year. We offer an exciting way to run a swim school with the benefit of the backing of an established and successful brand.

Our franchisees receive a bespoke training course and continued support and guidance from the Head Office team.

Join our growing network and be part of something exciting.

• £20,000 franchise fee • 10 established franchises in our first year • Territories available nationwide • On-going support and guidance • Client longevity

Contact Jackie Miles on 07500 696 866 | email:franchises@angelasswimschool.co.uk | www.angelasswimschool.co.uk/franchise

ChipsAway

It couldn’t be a better time to join the UK’s biggest ‘on-the-spot’ automotive paintwork repair brand. We are recruiting motivated, tenacious and ambitious individuals with the determination to succeed, to take ChipsAway to the next level.

Make sure you choose the market leaders who can offer the very best support and business offering available! Take control of your future and be your own boss with ChipsAway, the UK’s original and market leading automotive paintwork repair franchise.

With guaranteed funding available to approved candidates, there’s never been a better time to join.*

• Excellent earnings - potential to turnover £80,000+pa • Proven demand with brand leaders of the marketplace • Unlimited business support from a dedicated team • Unrivalled training course and business launch

*Guaranteed funding is subject to availability and available to candidates approved by ChipsAway International with a minimum personal investment of £15,000.

Call: 0800 731 6914 | www.chipsaway.co.uk

CNA Executive Search Ltd

Build a global business with no territory boundaries Build your own business with the brand, support and benefits of being part of one of the largest recruitment companies in the UK and Europe. CNA Executive Search specialist (Partners) forms the executive search and senior appointment arm of the Pertemps Network Group Ltd.

• Instant brand recognition and credibility with global corporations • Full Training on how to build and grow your business • Superior and constantly evolving systems from the Pertemps Group • Start your business with low overheads from your home office

Call 01676 822 222 | email: nick.sprang@cna-international.com | www.cna-international.com 70 elitefranchise June 2015

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FRANCHISE FOCUS

Cookery Doodle Doo

Are you a Star Baker? Share your passion for food with young cooks and grow your own successful business with Cookery Doodle Doo. We’re looking for smart cookies to join our franchise network and launch cooking classes for children aged 3-10 in your area.

Speak to our founder Katie today and find out why we’re the fastest-growing children’s cooking school in the UK!

• Turn your passion for baking into a business • Work that fits around your family and lifestyle • Training, equipment, support and original child-friendly recipes provided • Featured on ITV, BBC, Bloomberg and Gurgle Magazine

Call 07588692955 | cookerydoodledoo.com/franchise

Driver Hire Nationwide

A straightforward business with huge potential A proven B2B management franchise with over 100 offices and a 30 year track record, Driver Hire is one of the most successful franchise brands in the UK. A specialist recruitment company supplying temporary staff to the transport and logistics sector. Average full year sales for Driver Hire franchisees in 2014/15 were £988k.

• Entry investment level from £35,000 (including start-up capital) • Run your own business in a sector worth £28.7bn in the UK • Net profit potential of over £100k per annum • No previous recruitment, transport and logistics experience required

Call Kasia Baldwin 01274 361073 | email: franchise@driverhire.co.uk | www.driverhirefranchise.co.uk

Harry Ramsden’s

Celebrating over 85 years in operation, Harry Ramsden’s is Britain’s longest established restaurant chain and is world famous for its Fish and Chips. With almost 30 Harry’s outlets operating across the UK and Ireland, we’re looking to increase our presence and are offering an amazing opportunity to become part of a British Institution.

• Fish and Chips remain the nation’s favourite cuisine with 382m portions sold annually • Harry Ramsden’s is the brand most closely associated with Fish and Chips globally • Brand awareness and recognition, along with the popularity of the offering, ensure Harry Ramsden’s outlets compete effectively from the outset

Contact phone 0203 077 5880 | email: franchise@harryramsdens.co.uk | www.harryramsdens.co.uk/franchise

Home Instead Senior Care

Home Instead Senior Care specialise in providing older people with non-medical care in their own homes. We take the lead not only in the care we provide, but also for the industry leading support we provide to our franchisees. Choosing a Home Instead franchise will enable you to combine making a difference with running a substantial and rewarding business.

• The bfa Gold Franchisor and Franchisee of the Year • Smith & Henderson Best Franchise Award • No.1 Home Care Provider • 5 star Franchisee Satisfaction

Contact phone 01925 732460 | email: franchiseinfo@homeinstead.co.uk | www.homeinstead.co.uk/franchise June 2015 elitefranchise 71

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FRANCHISE FOCUS

The Interface Financial Group

IFG 50/50 is an affordable home-based franchise that provides short-term working capital to small businesses by purchasing current, quality invoices at a discount.

In IFG 50/50, all transactions are syndicated 50/50 with the franchisee and franchisor. IFG is also responsible for the due diligence and paperwork for the transactions, while IFG 50/50 franchisees build the referral relationships. Also available is an innovative Capital Leverage Programme to allow franchisees to grow their capital even faster.

• Excellent ROI • Low overhead • Home-Based • Exceptional training & support • Non-territorial & Portable

Contact phone 0845 834 0332 | email: ifg@interfacefinancial.com | www.interfacefinancial.co.uk

JAN-PRO Cleaning Systems

Jan-Pro is committed to helping individuals start their own commercial cleaning business at whatever level they choose – part time, full time or executive, with an entry level investment of under £10,000. Our training is excellent, our support ongoing and our vision is for you to grow your business to support the lifestyle of your choice.

• Join a rapidly expanding industry.

• Learn and benefit from our training, our processes, our unique guarantee and our reputation.

• Invest and grow at a pace that suits you and your individual goals.

Contact phone 01934 740472 | email: phil.ryan@jan-pro.com | www.jan-pro.com/centrallondon

KARE PLUS

Kare Plus is a leading provider of quality nursing and domiciliary care, supplying medical and non-medical personnel to the NHS, some of the UK’s largest private hospitals and nursing care groups, and those requiring care in their own home. We have new Service Level Agreements in place with the NHS, a portfolio of established National Contracts and full CQC accreditation. Join us and earn healthy profits by delivering valuable services to your local community

• Established brand recognised by health professionals • On-going support, including recruitment and customer development • Access to national contracts nationwide • Competitive franchise fee of £40,000

Contact phone 0845 094 9288 | email: info@kareplus.co.uk | www.kareplus.co.uk

Kiddleydivey

Kiddleydivey have a fantastic reputation as a very successful company delivering structured, fun packed, music based sessions to the elderly, and young children since 1996. We are offering an incredible opportunity to franchise an enormously varied, fun, rewarding business! The unique, low-cost franchise gives you the opportunity to work with children, the elderly or both! You could make a real, tangible, positive difference to the lives of young children, the elderly and others. No two days are the same!

• Low start-up costs – individual franchises are £3,500 and, the combined package is £4,999 plus VAT.

• High income potential • Large exclusive territory • Flexibility - full or part time • No previous experience required – full training given in all aspects of the business

Contact: Sally Murphy 07740679054 | email: kiddleydivey@yahoo.co.uk | www.kiddleydivey.co.uk 72 elitefranchise June 2015

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FRANCHISE FOCUS

Mail Boxes Etc

Mail Boxes Etc. is one of the world’s largest non-food retail franchises. It is the only High Street chain that offers consumers and local companies a truly comprehensive range of national and international courier delivery, postal, print and copy services. As well as mailbox rental, stationery and packaging supplies plus many other complimentary profit streams. When you join Mail Boxes Etc. you get the full support of a globally-recognised brand with a proven business model and a comprehensive induction and training system.

• Established, fast-growing network with a proven system • Full support of a globallyrecognised brand • A complete turnkey start-up package from £60,000 • Comprehensive start up and initial training • Continual operational and marketing support

Call 01608 649238 | email: mbe.co.uk/franchise_opportunities | www.franchise@mbe.co.uk

Martin & Co

Martin & Co is one of the only UK property agency franchises that offers lettings and estate agency with UK-wide recognition. With a network of just under 200 franchise owners, they are the largest property franchise business in the UK. With strong high street and online presence, the secret of their franchise owners’ success is that they can provide local property knowledge whilst being backed by a national brand.

• Buoyant rental market • Growing sales market • Turnover £245k in year 3 • Build a business worth over £380k in just 5 years

Contact phone 01202 292829 | email: propertyfranchise@martinco.com | www.propertyfranchise.co.uk

Ovenclean

Ovenclean is the longest established and most successful oven cleaning franchise in the UK. With over 27 million households nationwide, Ovenclean franchisees provide specialist services to a large, virtually untapped marketplace.

The Ovenclean franchise model has been developed to suit individual lifestyles and business aspirations. Low overheads and the flexibility to dictate working hours, benefits franchisees wishing to retain control over their work/life balance whilst also delivering high profitability and great job satisfaction.

• Flexible working hours to suit your lifestyle • Potential to earn over £1,000 per week* • Massive, virtually untapped marketplace • Regular, repeat business • Great job satisfaction • Unique cleaning system *Figures based on existing franchisees and are not guaranteed

Call: 0800 988 5434 | www.ovenclean.com

PA4You

Our call handling support will bring your franchise more sales - guaranteed! All small businesses miss calls. Engaged lines, unanswered calls, too busy on your workload, weak mobile signals. This all means lost opportunities. Our award winning, very personalised, sales support teams of PA’s will quickly capture your diverted missed calls, and new web leads, that you are missing every day and help you convert them into happy new clients. Our service pays for itself!

Call us for a free trial

• Knowledgeable, responsive PA staff helping your callers • Longer opening hours for your callers • Low cost, high value sales support • Short contracts • More profits for your business

Call 0333 800 3690 | email: hello@pa4you.co.uk | pa4you.co.uk June 2015 elitefranchise 73

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FRANCHISE FOCUS

Peach Lettings

Peach Lettings has grown its customer base by operating an upfront and honest business model, something that is quite unique within the lettings industry. This sector is growing year on year and in order to keep up with demand with the growing numbers of Landlords nationwide, Peach Lettings are offering its business as a franchise to enthusiastic and hardworking individuals. Are you looking for a new challenge, to be your own boss and to take control of your own earnings potential?

• Complete Franchise £1995 (introductory offer) • No Experience Necessary – Full 1 on 1 training provided • Low Overheads, Work From Home • Earn In Excess of £100,000pa within 3 years • Payment Plan Available

Call 01780 470 139 | email: sales@peachlettings.com | peachlettingsfranchise.com

Rainbow International

Rainbow International is the leading supplier of restoration and specialist cleaning services following fire, flood or accidental damage in domestic and commercial premises.

These services are offered to many of the top insurance companies as well as large companies and private customers.

Business opportunities are available throughout the U.K including new territories and re-sales. All training will be provided in our in-house training facility

• Recession proof business • Recognised brand • Protected territories • Personalised Rainbow website • Ongoing support from a team of experts at Head Office • Extensive 3 week training onsite at Head Office

Contact phone 01623 675 185 | email: businessopportunites@rainbow-int.co.uk

Surelet

SureLet has been providing a fresh, exciting and innovative lettings franchise opportunity for over 10 years. The support, care and attention that each and every franchise receives is the reason our company continues to grow. Which is why when you buy into our SureLet Franchise, you don’t just buy into a successful business, you buy into a family. We want to continue to build on our successful lettings franchise model and make a real difference in the Lettings Industry.

• Send all paperwork to our PropertyManagement Centre • Bespoke Sign-writing - have the car vinyl synonymous with the SureLet brand • Cloud based technology for easy management • Franchise only starting from £12,500

Contact phone 08000 934 984 | email: info@surelet.co.uk | www.surelet.co.uk

Tax Twerk

Creative business owners save 16-24 hours every month on hourly costs by using an online bookkeeping service. That’s a SAVING of £300 - £400 every month.

If you’re thinking, “Hecky! I don’t need to spend 16-24 hours on the books!”, then you must love those brown letters from HMRC, we say! But if YOU want more time freedom, more tax savings and less stress, Tax Twerk is for you... We’re the premier VIP Online Bookkeeping Service for Creatives.

Got burning questions? Contact Us Today for a FREE 25 Minute Discovery Session!

• Our goal is to help you keep your cash flow bouncing • VIP Membership Service we do all of the bookkeeping completely hands-off for you • Flexibility – we work online and support you every step of the way • We are young, fresh and highly experienced

Call 0330 321 1136 or visit TaxTwerk.com. Limited spaces each month, so don’t miss out!

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FRANCHISE FOCUS

The Best Of

Residual Income, Low Maintenance and HUGE growth potential.

Our franchisees identify the best businesses in their local area and then using a suite of marketing tools unique to thebestof, work with the business owner to showcase and promote them. Your core income will be from the monthly membership payments made to you by local businesses.

When you’ve got 200 featured businesses, your regular monthly income should be heading north of £19,000 each month.

Remember: residual income is a beautiful thing.

• Low maintenance • No stock • No employees • Residual income • Low-cost

Georgina Grogan 0121 765 5556 | email: tellmemore@thebestof.co.uk | www.getthebestof.co.uk

The Chocolate Room

A World of Coffee and Chocolate!!

A unique opportunity to be part of an exciting global brand.

The Chocolate Room is a boutique chocolate café, offering a new concept for the UK. We strive to offer quality products with the best customer service. Offering delicious 23 flavours of hot chocolate, tasty waffles, crepes, sundaes and authentic gelato ice cream and more. Come and experience The Chocolate Room for yourselves to see how special we are!

• • • •

Join a fast growing market Low investment High returns; averaging 30% Experienced franchise group to support you • we have over 180 stores world wide 5 countries • We have mass appeal, and offer something that people of all ages will enjoy

Call 020 8427 9391 | email: jpbusiness@hotmail.co.uk | thechocolateroomuk.com

Your Zone Studio

Your Zone Studio operates a revolutionary 55 minute personal group fitness workout set in welcoming, comfortable studio environments. Your Zone is unlike any other fitness concept out there – designed to offer members motivation, enjoyment and visible results where they can expect to burn up to 1,000 kcals per session. Since 2003, Your Zones USP has ensured that the model has brought continuous success and they want to share the successful franchise model with likeminded individuals.

• Instant brand recognition and credibility with global corporations • Full Training on how to build and grow your business • Start your business with low overheads from your home office

Call 01268 200168 | email: franchise@yourzonestudio.co.uk | yourzonestudvio.co.uk/franchise

Zip Yard

Are you ambitious to run your own business?

Customer driven and well organised?

Can you follow a proven business system?

All Zip Yard franchises are finished to a distinctive specification and you are presented with a fully operational and fully supported business with trained staff and comprehensive brand marketing from day one.

• Marketing and promotion tools • Group purchasing power • Internet and web support • Ongoing training programmes • Continued concept and product development • Day to day troubleshooting

Contact phone 01530 513307 | email: edownes@thezipyard.co.uk | www.thezipyard.co.uk June 2015 elitefranchise 75

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FRANCHISE DIARIES with Kate Lester

PULLING

TOGETHER Kate Lester explains why any good business is based on a collection of team players, not a sole superstar employee

O

ne of my favourite books is Will it Make the Boat go Faster?

by Ben Hunt-Davis, the British Olympic rowing champion.

It’s a management manual about focusing absolutely on one goal – such as making sure Team GB wins rowing gold at the Sydney Olympics – and the importance of the team.

You see, regardless of Ben’s individual determination and focus, he could not win that race alone. It’s an eight-man crew and everyone has to be of equal strength and commitment, while having the cohesiveness to dedicate themselves to that one goal.

Which is also why, coincidentally, Kevin Pietersen won’t be chosen for England this year. Sure, it’s tempting when he’s clearly such a talented player. And with England’s recent run scores, a big hitter and a spare hundred runs or so would come in damn handy. But – and it’s a big but – he cannot win alone. Cricket is indisputably a team sport and one man alone cannot win.

It’s like Alex Ferguson sacking Roy Keane in 2005 – arguably one of the most talented players he had at that time – but he spoke out against the leadership and spoke out against the team, and that was just not on.

So often in life and business we focus on the big hitters, the big scorers, without acknowledging the corrosive impact that they are having on the whole team. If they get too big for their boots or start causing bad feeling or impacting on the collective motivation, they are bad for the team and inevitably bad for business. And in this instance – regardless of their individual ability to score – the team as a whole will fail.

In franchising you are looking for all your franchises to perform – after all, your revenues at HQ will rely on people achieving their targets and providing you with that steady income stream. But if they are not acting in strict accordance with your team ethics, not sharing the collective vision and, even worse, causing trouble at the core of your business, in the long term these star players are just not worth it.

You have to be decisive, brave and cut them out because they can be like a cancer. They may not have an impact short-term but in the

80 elitefranchise June 2015

You have to be decisive, brave and cut them out

long-term they could prove fatal.

In a team there are always going to be stars and supporters – that’s the way life goes – but the stars have to lose their ego and the supporters have to work with equal dedication so the whole team can make progress equally. Otherwise, in any team, just like in any business, if you have one pulling harder than the others and, even worse, making the others feel crappy in the process, your boat or your business will just go round in circles.

It’s difficult. Often we see the strength of an individual and think it’s an easy win. But if it’s a great franchise network or a great sports team you are building – not a oneman-band – you need collective motivation, enthusiasm and loyalty. Not one egotistical individual who may bring the whole side down. Take a good look at your team and the egos within it and ask yourself if they are all making the boat go faster. If not, it could be time for a change.

It starts with the selection process. An application form is one thing but the person in reality can be very different. It’s worthwhile asking some telling questions – situation-based questions that can give insight into their team playing skills. We have also found that asking them to name the three words that best describe them has also given us a good insight – the guy who answered bullish, provocative and determined did not get an interview.

You can ask them to complete an online personality test too but just beware that people often fill in what you want to read rather than what they actually feel.

The key thing that will hold you in good stead is a franchise agreement that sets out very specifically that the upholding of the business principles and ethics is paramount, and what the ramification will be if this is not upheld – for example, termination in the event of any behaviour that is detrimental to the team. Act fast to quash any bad feeling – write a formal letter of warning, get them in to confront the bad behaviours and get a commitment in writing from the errant party for them to turn over a new leaf. If their poor behaviour continues, you are left with little option other than to terminate their contract.

Team building is all about the people.

It’s a shame therefore that, in the end, it may become all about the contract. But remember, if you do not act to quash poor team play it can have an insidious effect on your business – and impact massively on the whole crew.

June 2015 elitefranchise 81

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Dublcheck doubles down the decades Now entering into its 21st year, Dublcheck reflects on its anniversary celebrations and the success of franchisees

A

s one of the fastest growing and most successful franchises in the UK, 2013 has certainly been a big year for Dublcheck, not least because it marked 20 years of business for the leading commercial cleaning company. Deciding to celebrate in style, the franchise hosted a glittering ball to recognise the many achievements of the organisation and its franchisees.

The ball, hosted by founder and Chairman Carol Stewart-Gill, was held in the Leverhulme Stand at the historic Chester Racecourse. Over 120 guests attended the superb occasion and enjoyed a champagne reception, dinner and an evening of entertainment. Guests were treated to a dazzling performance from world modern jive dance champions and franchisee owners Hazel Surguy-Price and John Lloyd. An outstanding performance by acoustic reggae and Latinostyle band Duncan Disorderly & The Scallywags brought everyone to the dance floor and got the evening into full swing.

Speaking passionately on the night about the company she founded in 1993, Carol StewartGill said, “It is fabulous to be sharing the achievements of this wonderful organisation with our franchisees. Success only comes with hard work, grit and determination, and this evening demonstrates the commitment of our franchisees and dedicated head office team.”

Len Donnelly won the prestigious Dublcheck 20th Anniversary Award. Since joining the

member of

Dublcheck network over six years you a success. Dublcheck’s “We can’t thank make ago, Len has amassed an annual approved training programme our franchisees will make you a professional in turnover in excess of £325,000.

To recognise his ongoing growth your field. Having been in the enough for and exceptional quality service, business of setting people up in the sustaining our commercial cleaning business for Dublcheck awarded Len a holiday reputation as for two at the luxurious Bellagio twenty years, Dublcheck knows Hotel, Las Vegas. how to deliver. When you invest in a high quality Carol congratulated and thanked a franchise, our committed head and committed office team will not only walk you franchisees for maintaining Dublcheck’s values and for through a comprehensive training organisation” providing exceptional customer course but it will also go that Carol Stewart-Gill, founder and Chairman, Dublcheck service standards, “We can’t extra mile by obtaining cleaning thank our franchisees enough for contracts on your behalf. sustaining our reputation as a high quality and Founded in 1993, Dublcheck is the UK’s leading committed organisation. We look forward to even franchised commercial cleaning company and more exciting and prosperous years ahead.” has been recognised as the 20th fastest growing private company by Virgin Fast Track and The About Dublcheck Sunday Times. With over a hundred franchisees Dublcheck is a franchise that requires few sales in operation, Dublcheck remains a wholly owned skills. All the business is obtained on behalf British company. Carol Stewart-Gill says with of our franchisees so they know exactly what confidence, “If you put in the effort and follow the their turnover will be. You can start with a Dublcheck System, huge rewards can be realised!” minimum turnover of £14,950 per annum if you want to run a hands-on business, starting small whilst retaining the security of your current employment, or you can purchase a franchise Dublcheck worth half a million pounds per annum by operating a management business. Opportunities Website: www.dublcheck.co.uk are endless: there is no upper limit.

Email: franchise@dublcheck.co.uk Whatever your background, investing in a Phone: 0800 317236 Dublcheck Commercial Cleaning Franchise can

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Over 43,000 stores in more than 110 countries worldwide

This is your chance to get on board with the

Number One Franchise Opportunity! *

2 Outlet opportunities currently available 2 Low cost, simple operation 2 20 franchisee support offices throughout the UK and Ireland

2 70% of franchises purchased by existing owners

We’re celebrating!

Over 2,000 stores

now open in the UK and Ireland

To find out more visit

www.subway.co.uk/business www.subway.ie/business or call 0800 085 5058 (UK) 1-800-413-076 (Eire) *SUBWAY® is the number one QSR brand by total store count (as at January 2015). ©2015 Doctor’s Associate Inc. SUBWAY® is a registered trademark of Doctor’s Associate Inc.

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