Name: Margaret Reddington                                                                                                                                                     Company Name: Contours Express                                                                                                                                            Location: Mullingar                                                                                                                                                                      

Length of time in operation: 3  Years                                                                                                                                                  

Professional background before becoming a  Franchisee:Banking           

Why did you become involved in franchising: Wanted to start up my own business and very much into Health & Fitness, and Contours Express seemed a good option.

Why did you choose this franchise business: Interested in Fitness and this was very new in Ireland ad the Master Franchisor Snap Printing had a good history of success.

How did you research the company before setting up: I did’nt do much research – just decided to buy the Franchise.

How did the master franchise help you starting a business in Ireland: Helped with Names & Contacts for various trades eg signs, furniture etc They organised design and production of Flyers for me.

Does the Master franchise continue to help you on an ongoing basis: Yes

What difficulties did you face starting off: Contours Express unheard of in Ireland as there were so few open, so I had to grow the brand in Mullingar and it has become very successful in this town, but I would like to see one in every town.

How did you overcome these difficulties: Well in a way you just get on with the job and that is to grow your business and try and be the most successful gym in the area which we are. I am continuously Marketing We have a number of events annually which involve the ladies from the community and this is great for branding and keeping the Name on peoples lips…we had 76 ladies take part in the Mini-marathon and we will get good PR out of this(funds still coming in ) You have to keep promoting the business

What advice would you give to others who have just started franchising or are looking for a franchise business in Ireland: If you put the work in you get the results back. You have to give 100% and you must always think positively – no negative thoughts. I am continuously thinking of new ideas to retain existing members and to get new Members to join up.