Joining a proven franchise allows you to build a business for yourself, but never by yourself. We work with franchisors working in various industries and we can help to find the perfect fit for you.
Hello and welcome to the first ever Forces into Franchising & Business Guide from the National Armed Forces & Emergency Services Events (NAFESE) Team.
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Project Editor - Mal Robinson | Publications Manager - Sam Rosenthal | Design - Liam Grieves Imagery - Ministry of Defence, MOD Crown Copyright 2025 Excerpts taken in quotation from the Enhanced Learning Credits (ELCAS) official website.
Contact: hospitality@nafese2023.com
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While the publishers have taken all reasonable care to ensure that all material is accurate at the time of going to press, they can accept no responsibility for errors or omissions. No liability is accepted for omission or failure from any cause. Opinions expressed are those of the individual contributors and not necessarily those of NAFESE.. Professional advice should be sought before making any commitment to business transactions detailed within NAFESE. All advertisements are accepted only on the grounds that they comply with the terms of the Trade Descriptions Act 1968 and all other relevant legislation. Inclusion of an advertisement cannot be construed as an endorsement of the advertiser or the product by the publishers, their employees or agents. The publishers cannot accept responsibility for any transaction between readers and advertisers. No material in this publication may be reproduced in any form without prior written permission from the publishers.
The Forces into Franchising & Business Guide - Copyright Parade Square Pickles Ltd.
Following in the footsteps of the successful NAFESE Community Directories published annually for the forces and blue light communities, this particular publication will primarily focus upon those leaving the armed forces or those who have already left and who are looking for both life investments and second careers on leaving the military.
Inside this first edition we have an array of Franchisors featured from the mighty McDonald’s - the world’s biggest and most famous franchise - to lesser known industries people may not associate with the world of franchising, such as travel and nature elements.
I have also had the “pleasure” of running my own business in several guises and I look to share a no holds barred overview of this on the following page.
1 in 7 military service leavers look to enter the worlds of either franchising or their own business, which is quite a lot for an approximate 19,000 service leavers per year. If you are one of those 1 in 7, I hope the publication you have in your hands or online before your eyes is of assistance in the forthcoming 12 months or so.
Yours sincerely,
Mal Robinson
Editor, National Armed Forces & Emergency Services Events Team
www.nafese2023.com
NAFESE Editor and RAF Veteran, Mal Robinson gives a personal and candid insight into running your own business
First of all I make no apologies about how blunt I am going to make things. After all, you want to hear the truth and what’s the point in beating about the bush?
The idea of running a business may appeal to many, but the reality is, running a business is really hardcore. If you are prepared to spend most of your time thinking about your business, doing the work of about ten people (to start with anyway), getting no thanks (not that you go into business for that, but there’s no thanks that you may get in employment) and realising the buck stops with you on everything, then keep reading.
Regardless of whether you are entering a field of work where you have plenty of contacts from your previous career or starting afresh in a new sector, you will need to network and ideally you would want to do this whilst still in the forces if possible. This will allow you to get a feel for things in that particular industry, see how the land lies, allows you to
practice networking as you go along (in order to tailor and tweak how you network when you are plunged into being a business owner for real) and of course gets your name out there (both personally and the business name) to future clients and suppliers.
To be honest, running a business aside, you can never do enough networking in general, whatever path you choose for the future.
As the networking progresses, some would argue you would need a clear plan, and business models after business models, that would seemingly be on paper, bulletproof and the like, yet sometimes it’s all about that fine balance of having a plan and actually putting it to the test.
I know plenty of would-be business owners who have fallen by the wayside, bogged down in too much overthinking, running out of time and money on policies and brand image, forgetting to actually provide a service to someone in order to run the actual business!
Again, I am not saying do not plan, of course you need to, but get the balance right.
You will make mistakes along the way and continue to do so, I still do now. The key thing is, not returning to make the same mistake twice - learn from errors and move on and more importantly, don’t beat yourself up.
Running a business is akin to running a family. Everyone has their own way of doing things at times and for certain things, there is no manual and things are ever evolving, so be prepared to evolve with it.
Potentially, though if I was going to give you one thing to take away from a very quick introduction and overview, it would be that cash flow for your business is King.
It sounds pretty obvious, but if you ain’t got the funds in your business account to cover the bill or your wages, then you are going to go under pretty sharpish. Always ensure there is money put to one side for unexpected bills, oversights or even refunds and of course, money put to one side for things like VAT bills (should you choose to become VAT registered) and Corporation Tax paid annually.
One thing to bear in mind when thinking of cash flow is working out
when you need to pay bills and the likelihood of when you are going to get paid from your customers and this can fluctuate massively. For example, the bigger the company you deal with (not all but often is the case) the longer it can take to get paid. Many large firms have 30, 60, 90 day payment terms and you should factor this into your forecasts when dealing with the so-called bigger establishments. Even then, an invoice can be lost on the system by one of their employees and the payment date can be delayed further still adding to your frustrations, however if you have accounted for such glitches and you have money in the bank to cover this, then the lower your blood pressure will be.
Don’t let this put you off what can be one of the most rewarding feelings of being your own boss and this is a tiny glimpse into the reality of running a business, yet I’d rather know the ins and outs, before embarking on a new business venture.
Good luck folks!
Mal Robinson, Editor, NAFESE.
Business success isn’t just about what you know—it’s about how you think and act. If you’ve served in the armed forces, you already have the core qualities to run a successful business. The ability to lead, think fast under pressure, and adapt to new challenges aren’t just military strengths—they’re essential in business.
At Jackson Fire & Security, we understand that the skills you’ve developed in service translate perfectly into business ownership. Your training has equipped you with:
Perseverance
Overcoming obstacles and pushing forward, no matter what.
Commitment
Staying focused and dedicated to achieving your mission.
Leadership
Guiding, inspiring, and motivating those around you.
Collaboration
Working effectively with a team to achieve a shared goal.
Problem-solving
Making quick, smart decisions when it matters most.
A Jackson Fire & Security franchise offers a structured, reliable route into business, making it an ideal opportunity for ex-military personnel. You’ll be providing vital fire and security services, helping to protect people, businesses, and communities—all while building a strong future for yourself.
Take Charge of Your Career
Step into a leadership role and run your own business.
Make a Real Difference
Deliver life-saving fire and security solutions.
Join a Trusted Brand
Operate with the support of an established and respected company.
Secure Your Financial Future – Enter a highdemand industry with strong growth potential.
Find success with Jackson Fire & Security, and apply your military expertise to build a rewarding, sustainable business. If you’re ready for your next challenge, this could be the perfect way to apply your skills in a meaningful new career.
Are you ready to put your experience to work in a way that truly matters?
Take the next step toward your future today with Jackson Fire & Security.
To put it in simple terms, the British Franchise Association defines the sector as: “Franchising is a business relationship between two parties. This comprises of the franchisor, who owns the brand and business system, and the franchisee, who via a franchise agreement is able to trade under the brand.”
There are two key players in the franchise model.
The franchisor is the person who started the brand name and has set up the business system.
The franchisee (and if you are reading this looking to embark on your franchising journey, this will be you) the person who is looking to buy the rights to open and run your own business using the franchisor’s brand and business system.
There are certain rules you must follow and elements you have agreed to in your franchise agreement, but ultimately, you are your own boss, albeit with the support network a franchisor offers.
To become a franchisee you will sign an agreement with the franchisor and pay a one-time payment called the franchise fee and this will often entitle you to use their brand name,
including their logo and the brand’s reputation, use their already tried and tested marketing strategies and business operations and one of the most important aspects of the franchise agreement, the training offered by the franchisor, be it both the initial training and regular workshops as you progress along your franchisee journey.
We will leave the final introductory word with Amrit Dhaliwal, Founder and CEO of Walfinch who wrote:
“Franchises offer a great way to be your own boss with the security of an established brand and system behind you. It’s like having training wheels on your entrepreneurial bike. However, research is key. Make sure the franchise you choose has a good reputation and a solid track record. It’s important to make sure you get on with the franchisor too and you genuinely like each other.
Starting your own business is no walk in the park, but that’s why franchising exists. You can be in business for yourself, but not by yourself.”
Your Next Mission with Alice in Windowland
Transitioning from a career in the military or emergency services can be both an exciting and challenging experience. The discipline, problem-solving skills, and leadership you honed during high-pressure situations are invaluable in the business world. If you’re seeking an opportunity to take charge of your future, enjoy a flexible lifestyle, and build a steady income, Alice in Windowland offers a franchise model designed specifically for individuals like you—those who thrive on responsibility, teamwork, and commitment.
Your Next Chapter: A Business with Purpose and Profit
Alice in Windowland provides a structured and proven business model that allows you to establish your own window cleaning franchise with low overheads and high growth potential. Whether you’re looking for financial independence, a career change, or a rewarding post-service venture, our franchise offers the support and stability needed to ensure longterm success.
Your background in the armed forces, fire services, police, or emergency medical response has equipped you with a missiondriven mindset, attention to detail, and the ability to adapt under pressure. These qualities make you a natural fit for franchise ownership.
With Alice in Windowland, you’re not just starting a job; you’re building a business backed by a strong brand, comprehensive training, and continuous support.
Your Role: Build at Your Own Pace
With our flexible business model, you choose how to operate:
• Work solo for maximum control and profit
• Partner with a teammate to boost efficiency
• Expand and lead a team to scale your business
Starting hands-on is encouraged, allowing you to develop expertise and position yourself for long-term success.
• Proven Business Model: Join a wellestablished brand with a solid reputation and high customer retention.
• Quick Start-Up, Low Overheads: Get up and running with minimal financial risk and an affordable entry cost.
• Transparent and Fair Earnings: Unlike traditional franchises, you keep more of what you earn with a straightforward monthly service fee.
• Comprehensive Training & Ongoing Support: Receive in-depth, hands-on, and online training with continuous guidance to help you succeed.
• Work-Life Balance & Growth Potential: Enjoy flexible hours while having the opportunity to expand into additional services to increase earnings.
Just as your service career was about dedication and excellence, this business opportunity allows you to channel those same qualities into building something of your own. Take control of your financial future with Alice in Windowland. If you’re ready to transition into business ownership with a trusted partner, we’re here to support you every step of the way.
Start Your Next Mission Today! Contact us to receive your comprehensive franchise prospectus and take the first step toward becoming an Alice in Windowland franchisee.
Looking for a profitable, flexible and scalable business with low start-up costs? Join a fast-growing, female-led brand disrupting the window cleaning industry!
Transitioning from a career in the Armed Forces or emergency services to civilian life presents both challenges and opportunities. Many veterans and former emergency responders seek careers that align with their core values, skill sets and strong work ethic. One pathway that has proven highly successful is franchise ownership. At The Franchise Consultant, we have seen firsthand how the structured, yet entrepreneurial nature of franchising complements the qualities ingrained through military service and frontline emergency roles.
Whether you’ve served in the Armed Forces or as a first responder, you bring a wealth of skills that make you an ideal franchisee. Leadership, discipline, problem-solving under pressure and adaptability—these are all hallmarks of both military and emergency service professionals and are critical traits for successful business ownership.
In the forces and emergency services,
you are trained to follow structured systems, execute plans with precision and lead teams effectively in high-pressure environments. These qualities directly translate to franchising, where success comes from following a proven business model while applying strategic thinking to drive growth. Your ability to remain resilient in demanding situations makes you particularly well-suited to the challenges of running a franchise.
A key reason why so many veterans and emergency services personnel gravitate towards franchising is the balance it offers between structure and independence. Franchising is built on well-established systems and continuous support from the franchise owners. From comprehensive training to ongoing mentorship, marketing assistance and supply chain management, franchise networks are designed to help business owners succeed.
Just as training and teamwork are fundamental to the military and emergency services, franchising provides an environment where
collaboration and shared expertise play a crucial role in long-term success.
Camaraderie is another vital aspect. Many who have served in uniform miss the team-oriented culture after leaving the forces or frontline roles.
Franchise ownership offers a builtin network of like-minded business owners who share experiences, advice and encouragement. This sense of belonging and mutual support is something many veterans and former emergency responders find reassuring as they transition into business ownership.
How The Franchise Consultant Can Support You
As a leading British Franchise Association (BFA) approved franchise consultancy, we specialise in matching franchisees with opportunities that align with their skills, interests and financial goals. We take the time to understand the unique strengths that veterans and emergency responders bring to the table and work closely with you to find the right franchise model. Whether in sectors such as food and beverage, home services, fitness, or
professional services, we ensure you find a business that fits your ambitions and lifestyle.
If you are exploring the next chapter of your career, The Franchise Consultant is here to guide you every step of the way. Together, we can help you unlock a future of entrepreneurial success.
McDonald’s recruits dedicated and passionate franchisees from a wide range of backgrounds, including several of our franchisees who are ex-military personnel. The skills that you have developed through your career in the armed forces can translate to skills which are essential to the role of a McDonald’s franchisee, such as leadership, critical thinking, integrity and teamwork to name just a few.
Dean Fitzmaurice was originally a Private in the Royal Army Medical Core, before becoming a McDonald’s Franchisee in Middlesbrough:
“My brother was serving and would tell me stories of all the things he was up to and the experiences he was having, I really wanted to get out and explore the world and the Army gave me that opportunity. Since leaving the military those values have never left me and have always inspired me to drive through adversity, build robust teams and lead with a strong moral compass.
The restaurants are dynamic and challenging every day with a focus on people and customers. This is no different to being in the military and living our favourite phrase ‘adapt and overcome’, analysing the operations constantly to optimise in the best way. In addition, building a team is essential, the Army runs on private soldiers and a restaurant runs on McDonald’s crew members. Fostering an inclusive environment that enables your team to grow is essential. In the military the everyday foundation is teamwork and this is underpinned by having zero tolerance to any form of discrimination. The McDonald’s franchise
model is looking out for the right person who fits in with our values around people, and military experience is a perfect fit for this.
What attracted me to franchising was that it played to my strengths as a former military member: developing people and running operations. As a franchisor, McDonald’s already provides a best-in-class franchise model, brand, customer base and team. It’s your role to grow, support and optimise this with 100% commitment, something every serving and former military member has without question. Becoming a McDonald’s franchisee has been one of the proudest moments of my life and I would advise anyone considering it to reach out to the franchisee recruitment team for more information.”
Dean Fitzmaurice, Franchisee
A McDonald’s franchisee has access to the company’s tried-and-tested methods, its research and development functions and its supply chain. Most importantly, franchisees have the support and training that a standalone business simply wouldn’t have. Becoming a McDonald’s franchisee is a 20-year commitment, which is one of the reasons why the franchisee recruitment process is so selective.
At McDonald’s, we want to partner with the right people. While you don’t need experience in the food industry, it is important that you have a passion for the business and a personable, motivated approach to lead your team from the front.
If you are interested in exploring a new career in franchising with McDonald’s, join us at one of our events (scan the QR code on the backpage to sign up) and find out more about franchising, our model, and the support given.
In an article originally penned for WhichFranchise.com, Nigel Toplis, Chairman of The Bardon Group tackles this question for you and raises some pointers.
Just because you want to run your own business doesn’t mean you are capable. You may have the funding to buy into a franchise BUT do you have the ‘mentality’ to do yourself and the business justice?
Whilst you’ll be researching your chosen franchise business and speaking to banks, advisors, existing franchisees and doing your due diligence, the franchisor should at the same time be doing their due diligence on you.
YES, the franchisors assessment of you is important but even more critical is your own assessment of yourself, your strengths/ weaknesses and above all your mentality.
I pulled together this ‘cheap and dirty’ Q7A for prospective franchisees to assess if they have the ‘make-up’ to be a franchisee.
12 questions with two points for each answer (rules for marking are at the end). If I took the test, then I would want to get to 20 points to be comfortable that I have the right mind set to be a franchisee.
Take the test – it will only take you five minutes. There are 12 questions – all binary –agree or disagree.
ANSWER THE QUESTIONS HONESTLY.
I sometimes feel I’ the victim of outside forces - AGREE/DISAGREE
Generally, I work later than I plan - AGREE DISAGREE
Some days I feel I’ve achieved nothingAGREE /DISAGREE
I will always try to get something positive from a poor situation - AGREE /DISAGREE
I like order and regular hours - AGREE / DISAGREE
I don’t like relying on other people - AGREE / DISAGREE
I will take risks if I’ve weighed up all the potential issues - AGREE /DISAGREE
If I start something I will see it through - AGREE /DISSGREE
I will generally consider other people’s viewsAGREE /DISAGREE
I temper my ambition to avoid disappointment - AGREE /DISAGREE
I get real satisfaction leading a team - AGREE / DISAGREE
I only care how much money I make - AGREE DISAGREE
If you answered YES to questions
2,4,7,8,9,11 then give yourself two points for each.
If you answered NO to any of the others, then also award yourself two points each.
The above is not sophisticated BUT frankly if you only scored 10 points would you be confident of running a business? No, nor would I.
About Nigel Toplis
Nigel Toplis is Managing Director of The Bardon Group stable of franchises which includes Kall Kwik, Recognition Express and Techclean. The Group specialises in developing and growing franchised businesses in the UK.
Article originally written for WhichFranchise. com - see www.whichfranchise.com for a range of advice, articles and opportunities.
Transitioning from military service to civilian life can be a challenging mission, particularly when it comes to finding a career that offers stability, structure, and a clear chain of command. Many Armed Forces leavers thrive in environments where discipline, teamwork, and leadership are critical, making franchising an ideal option.
At More Than Loft Ladders, we offer an opportunity that aligns perfectly with the skills and attributes gained in military service. If you’re looking for a rewarding and structured business model, backed by a nationally recognised brand, our franchise proposition could be your next deployment into success.
More Than Loft Ladders (MTLL) is a fastgrowing home improvement franchise specialising in loft ladder installation, loft boarding, insulation, and lighting solutions. We operate in a lucrative market as homeowners increasingly look to optimise their space rather than move home.
With a strong brand reputation built on exceptional customer service, professionalism, and high-quality installations, MTLL provides a franchise opportunity with significant growth potential. Our proven business model is designed for individuals who are driven, handson, and eager to build a profitable venture.
Franchising with MTLL is particularly wellsuited to those coming from a military background. The following attributes, common among Armed Forces leavers, make for an ideal MTLL franchisee:
• Discipline and Work Ethic – Following structured processes and executing a wellplanned strategy is key to success.
• Leadership and Teamwork – Whether working independently or managing a squad, leadership experience is invaluable.
• Problem-Solving and Adaptability – Every job presents different challenges, and your ability to assess, adapt, and overcome is crucial.
• Hands-On Practicality – While prior experience in loft installation isn’t necessary, a practical, mission-focused mindset is essential.
• Commitment to Customer Service – Just like in the military, attention to detail and professionalism go a long way in ensuring success.
One of the greatest benefits of joining MTLL is that no prior experience in construction or home improvement is required. Our franchise package provides everything needed to succeed, including:
1. Comprehensive Training and Support
We offer a full training programme covering all aspects of the business, ensuring you’re mission-ready from day one. Ongoing business mentoring and operational guidance are also available.
Building a business from scratch takes years, but with MTLL, you benefit from our established brand name and marketing support from day one.
3. Exclusive Territory
Each franchisee receives a defined territory with exclusive rights, ensuring a large customer base without competition from other MTLL franchisees.
Unlike many franchise models requiring premises or large stock investments, MTLL is a mobile business with low overheads, maximising profit potential.
5. Scalable Business
Start as an owner-operator and expand by recruiting a team as your customer base increases, scaling up operations at your pace.
Investing in a franchise is a strategic decision, but with MTLL, you can be confident in the financial opportunity available. The initial franchise fee is competitively priced, and many of our franchisees achieve strong revenues within their first year.
Ex-forces personnel may qualify for funding options through government-backed schemes, including the British Franchise Association’s partnership with The Royal British Legion’s Be the Boss programme. We can guide you through these funding opportunities to make your transition into franchising as smooth as possible.
At MTLL, we are proud to have franchisees from a wide range of backgrounds. Some have experience in trade industries, while others have transitioned from corporate careers, customer service roles, or entirely different sectors. What unites them is their drive, work ethic, and commitment to building a successful business. No matter your previous career path, our proven system and comprehensive support will equip you with the tools needed to thrive.
If you’re looking for a business opportunity that offers financial security, a structured approach, and strong support, More Than Loft Ladders could be the perfect fit for you.
We welcome ex-Forces personnel who are eager to apply their skills in a new, rewarding career. If you’re ready to embark on your next mission with a proven business model, we’d love to hear from you.
To learn more about our franchise opportunity, contact us today to receive a franchise prospectus, arrange a discovery call, or book a visit to our head office to meet the team.
Call: 0800 0359 880
Email: franchise@mtll.co.uk
Website: www.mtllfranchise.co.uk
Join More Than Loft Ladders and build a future where your hard work, discipline, and dedication create lasting success.
Feel Electric are a health and technology company at the forefront of the next Fitness Revolution in the UK. EMS training is the first innovation that improves on the efficiency and efficacy of traditional training methods, activating up to 98% of all muscle fibres, 85 times per repetition in just a 20 minute session!
Our TurnKey Franchising Solution has been taking the UK by storm, as the fastest growing UK EMS Franchise and the largest private EMS provider, our approach has been resonating with both customers and entrepreneurs across the country. Built on years of development and refinement in corporate studio environments, our processes, technology stack and training methods have been carefully tested, developed, and optimised to deliver exceptional results. This has positioned Feel Electric as pioneers in the industry, providing a fantastic business opportunity for any entrepreneur, not just industry insiders
Our franchise model is designed for scalability and success, offering a streamlined, low-overhead business with high customer retention. We provide everything needed to hit the ground running: Recruitment support; targeted marketing; a full and bespoke technology infrastructure that reduces administration time and cost; plus, world-class training; assistance with site selection; demographic analysis; ongoing support, and much more. Our studios are set up for maximum efficiency, requiring minimal space while delivering maximum impact.
For those coming from a military background, a Feel Electric franchise offers an ideal transition into business ownership. The structured processes, discipline, and leadership skills developed in the forces align perfectly with our operational model. Many of our most successful franchisees are ex-military personnel who have applied their strategic thinking and dedication to drive growth and customer satisfaction in their studios.
Choosing Feel Electric franchise means being more than a number on a spreadsheet. The Feel Electric Family is ever growing, and we work closely with all our owners to set you up for success. With the support of our expert team, franchisees can build a thriving business while helping clients achieve their fitness goals faster than ever before.
If you’re ready to take control of your future and be part of the health technology revolution, find us at the London ExCeL Friday 11th and Saturday 12th of April and be in with the chance to win our £100k franchise giveaway. If you can’t make it. Find us at www.feelelectric.com/franchise to find out more, download our information pack and book an introductory call with our directors.
Transitioning from military service to civilian life is one of the most challenging yet rewarding journeys a veteran can take. For Eddie McVey, a former Royal Marine Commando, that journey led him from the disciplined world of the armed forces and private security to becoming a successful franchise owner with The Wheel Specialist.
Eddie’s career began in the Royal Marines, where he served with distinction. The Marines instilled in him resilience, leadership, and a commitment to excellence. His role required mental toughness, quick decision-making under pressure, and the ability to lead teams in high-stakes environments—skills that later proved invaluable in business.
After leaving the military, Eddie transitioned into private security, working in some of the world’s most challenging environments. Managing risk, coordinating teams, and ensuring safety became second nature. However, despite the challenges, he wanted more control over his future.
Determined to build something of his own, Eddie explored franchising. He wanted a business that aligned with his values: structure, discipline, and impact. That’s when he found The Wheel Specialist.
More than just a business, The Wheel Specialist offered a proven model backed by strong support. Its focus on quality, operational efficiency, and customer satisfaction resonated with him. Eddie saw an opportunity to apply his military-honed skills—problem-solving, leadership,
Eddie’s journey proves that veterans excel in franchising. The qualities that drive military success—discipline, resilience, and teamwork— are the same traits that lead to business success.
The Wheel Specialist offers veterans
A Proven System: Like military operations, franchising follows tested strategies and processes.
Strong Support: Veterans are never left to navigate challenges alone. The franchise network and head office provide continuous guidance.
Leadership Opportunities: Franchise ownership allows veterans to lead teams, make strategic decisions, and build a legacy.
Mission-Driven Work: While the mission differs, the sense of purpose remains. Providing excellent service and growing a business offers fulfilment.
“The transition from military life can be daunting, but the skills you’ve developed are incredibly valuable in business,” says Eddie. “Franchising with The Wheel Specialist gave me the structure I needed, along with the freedom to be my own boss.”
If you’re a veteran looking for your next challenge, consider following in Eddie’s footsteps. Your next mission starts here.
01564 784 991
opportunities@tws-lfc.com
thewheelspecialist-franchise.co.uk
“Right at Home offers a lot of support, which allowed me to be my own boss and follow my passion. By offering local jobs, community engagement, and the best in quality care, we really have made a difference to my local community.
“I’m really proud of the business I’ve built. Highlights have included getting an Outstanding rating from the Care Quality Commission, winning a Service Leaver Franchisee of the Year award and reaching the finals of the bfa Franchisee of the Year Award – but the real icing on the cake is seeing the impact that great quality care has on the lives of our clients and their families.”
franchising@rightathome.co.uk rightathomefranchising.co.uk
By Paul Sheard National Business Development & Training Manager, Propertynest.
Probably the most frequently asked question! The answer will depend on the structure of the franchise but also the franchisee too. How much effort are they willing to put into building a business? The earnings of franchisees within the same network, all following the same manual and using the same business model can vary widely, so the question might be better phrased as: “I’d like to be earning £X, is that realistic and what will I need to do and how will you support me as a franchisor to achieve that goal?”
I’d really like to see that the potential franchisee has researched and already understands the franchise concept here. I would expect more detailed questions around the business model – about advertising, marketing, supplies, territories and support for example.
Most franchisors will not expect technical knowledge, but they will expect drive, determination, resilience and a raft of soft skills such as communication and the ability to build relationships with customers. For example, as a Propertynest franchised estate agent, a background in property is not necessary but face-to-face sales experience is essential. A franchisee who has the right transferable skills and can identify the gaps where they will need further training,
should enquire about the support they will get in relation to filling those gaps to come over favourably. Also be sure to ask about ongoing support.
This is an ever-popular question, but potential franchisees need to understand franchisors usually have many applicants. A franchise interview is a two-way street and it’s as much about the franchisor choosing the right franchisee to represent their brand as a franchisee buying into an opportunity. I would expect to see the prospect demonstrate their research and be prepared to discuss the pros and cons of the franchise opportunity compared to the competition. Can you introduce me to sources of funding?
As a franchisor, I’d really like a potential franchisee to have a handle on the numbers. An understanding of the amount of investment required, how they plan to fund the business and how they will support their lifestyle while building it. Franchisors are usually able to introduce franchisees to quality sources of funding, but franchisees need to be realistic and demonstrate an understanding of where they need financial input. Honesty and transparency are important from the outset to ensure the greatest chance of success.
Article originally written & produced for WhichFranchise.com and edited for Forces into Franchising. www.whichfranchise.com
THE BRITISH FRANCHISE ASSOCIATION
Mail Address:
Milton Park Innovation Centre, 99 Park Drive, Milton Park, Abingdon, OX14 4RY
Tel: 01235 820470
General Enquiries: mailroom@thebfa.org www.thebfa.org
WHICHFRANCHISE.COMLEADING UK FRANCHISE DIRECTORY
Existing client enquiries: stuart@whichfranchise.com
Marketing & Advertising enquiries: suzanne@whichfranchise.com
International & master enquiries: johnny@whichfranchise.com
Accounts & Invoicing: lynn@whichfranchise.com www.whichfranchise.com
Quality Franchise Association ( QFA ) is a not for profit, franchise association UK.
Mail Address:
Amelia House, Crescent Road, Worthing, England, BN11 1QR
Tel: 01323 315 048
www.franchise-association.org.uk
UK BUSINESS ANGELS ASSOCIATION
Mail Address:
Chancery House, 5th Floor East, 5364 Chancery Ln, London WC2A 1QS
Tel: 020 7492 0490
Email: enquiries@ukbaa.org.uk www.ukbaa.org.uk
THE FEDERATION OF SMALL BUSINESSES
Mail Address:
Federation of Small Businesses, Sir Frank Whittle Way, Blackpool. FY4 2FE
Email: customerservices@fsb.org.uk
✅ UK’s No.1 Wheel Refurbishment Brand
✅ Strong Earning Potential – Up to £190K Net Profit
✅ Full Training & Support – No Experience Needed
✅ Work for Yourself, Not by Yourself
✅ Exclusive Territories & National Recognition
