Weight Loss Franchises - Bernard Jackman invests in BodySmart™ fitness concept franchising opportunity - Ireland’s HI TECH fitness franchise complements his Peak Performance focus

BodySmart, Ireland’s hi-tech fitness franchise, announced today that Bernard Jackman, ex- Irish international rugby player, is investing in the BodySmart fitness franchise and specifically in the BodySmart studio located in Grand Canal Square.

The city centre based BodySmart studio will focus primarily on peak performance programs targeted to the male professional. Bernard comments ‘My passion is Peak Performance and I am impressed with the BodySmart workout. I am amazed at how tough a 25 minute workout can be, my whole body feels the benefit.

The BodySmart programs complement my interest in Leadership and Team coaching. Keeping physically fit is an integral part of performance at peak levels.’ Decades of research published in medical journals such as American College of Sports Medicine, the International Journal of Medical Sciences, the European Journal of Obesity and the Journal of Bone & Mineral Research lend credibility to the science behind the Power Plate device.

Sports teams such as Manchester United, Pittsburgh Steelers, New York Yankees, and athletes such as Rafael Nadal and Lee Westwood use Power Plate for sports conditioning. BodySmart works with elite athletes and sports enthusiasts to offer specialised conditioning programs. For example, the Get Fit for Golf program is a Titleist Performance program on the Power Plate which improves balance, flexibility and range of motion to help golfers achieve improved performance on the golf course.’  Morgan Pierce (MD BodySmart) says, ‘Bernard’s endorsement of the BodySmart workout is a testament to the strength of our product. The professional male has limited time to keep fit and maintain an exceptional level of fitness. Using technology to enhance the workout makes for a compelling offer to the male fitness requirement. ’

In a career that spanned more than a decade, Bernard Jackman played for Connaght, Sale Sharks and made 99 appearances for Leinster. He won many of the game’s top accolades including 9 caps for Ireland, a Grand Slam medal in the historic 2008/09 season and a Heineken Cup winner’s medal in 2009. Bernard Jackman authored BLUE BLOOD, The Bernard Jackman Autobiography which was published in 2010. To search Franchises for sale in Ireland, please click the Home link above.

Rosemary Conley Diet Keep Fit Franchises - Rachel Rowling - Franchisee Case Study

After graduating and working professionally in law, Rachel Rowling, the Rosemary Conley Diet and Fitness Clubs franchisee for the Dewsbury, Batley and Heckmondwike area, never imagined that a holiday with her husband would result in a complete career change!

But, on the flight home from a holiday with her family, Rachel picked up the latest Rosemary Conley Diet & Fitness magazine and inside found a section about the franchise opportunity. On her return Rachel investigated the idea further.

Four years ago she attended an open day, launched her business a year laterand hasn’t looked back since! One of the most challenging aspects for Rachel was the training. Having come from a commercial background, Rachel found herself as a novice when training for her OCR Exercise to Music qualification. However, Rachel passed with flying colours, which she credits to hard work, persistence and the strength of the training course.

She says:"The delivery and support you get on the training course is second to none. It was the best course I have ever been on, both during my student and professional career." Rachel is now well into her second year and is ecstatic that her life has taken such a different path. "Being a franchisee is great and whilst it is a serious job, it has a real fun factor that I had been missing before," adds Rachel. One of Rachel’s biggest bonuses is the sense of achievement the job brings. "You can’t beat the feeling when your members get taken off medication by their doctors as a result of improving their health at your classes. The members really are fantastic!” says Rachel.

Although Rachel occasionally misses the cut and thrust of business meetings and wearing a suit and killer heels, there is nothing which can match the buzz of seeing people change their lives for the better and improve their self-belief. Rachel highly recommends buying a franchise to anyone who wants the freedom of being their own boss and running their own business but with the backing of the Rosemary Conley brand, which gives instant recognition and credibility within the market. "Knowing that the Rosemary Conley franchise is backed so strongly by the BFA and has been twice recipient of the Franchisor of the year award meant a great deal to me. It gave me all the confidence I needed to invest in this franchise." With three employees currently in training, Rachel is looking forward to expanding her business and continuing to live life to the full whilst doing something she loves.

To search Irish Franchises for Sale, please click the Home link above.

I began my working life in the construction industry as an office junior. With very little idea about what industry I wanted to work within, one thing was very clear: I wanted to work for myself. I spent the next six years working with a small family-run building firm in Cambridge, reaching the position of Projects Manager.

Six years ago, I moved into the specialist contracting sector, during which time I developed my commercial skills and gained additional confidence in my own abilities. Whilst I enjoyed working within the construction sector, I could not escape the continuous desire to work for myself. I decided four years ago that I would start to explore opportunities available to me. Whilst considering my options, I was fortunate enough to be presented with details of the FRS Franchising opportunity. This would be a real change (I knew nothing about the recruitment industry) and certainly outside of my comfort zone. I spent about one month talking with the team at FRS, looking into the opportunity in detail and trying to attribute my existing skills to the role. I ensured that I discussed the opportunity in full with my partner, family and friends to gauge their thoughts and opinions. This was critical as it gave me the extra confidence that this was absolutely something I could be successful at.

YEAR ONE

February 14th - Forces Recruitment Services (Cambridgeshire) starts trading. I did it! I now owned and operated my own company. I have to admit to having mixed emotions in the first week. There was an element of excitement and fear, but the burning desire succeed carried me through. The support and training I received during the early stages (both in setting up the company and actually trading) had great impact on my productivity and success.

I can attribute a huge amount of the success of my business down to the sales and ops training which was delivered by the FRS Franchise Management team. It gave me the tools I needed to make money. The great thing about FRS is the sense of being a part of a team. There's always somebody on the phone if you need support. My first year with FRS exceeded my expectations, both financially and personally. This is certainly not an easy ride but I can categorically state - you will get out of it what you put in. I would highly recommend the FRS Franchise to anybody who is serious about working for themselves. To search Franchises to Buy in Ireland, please click the Home link above.

BodySmart™ Obtains Private Equity Backing: BodySmart, Ireland’s Power Plate® Home Gym franchise, announced today that is has secured a private equity investment from Marc O’Dwyer, Managing Director of Big Red Book and a seasoned Irish entrepreneur and investor. The investment provides funding for BodySmart to launch the Franchise to the Irish marketplace. BodySmart will open at least ten studios in their first year, creating up to 50 jobs.

Marc O’Dwyer comments “In this day and age of high stress levels and significant time constraints, it is essential to maintain a healthy body. I have been a client for over a year, and the results are visible within the first week or two. This is an exciting investment for me personally because I am a very keen sportsman and Triathlete and I envision BodySmart revolutionising exercise in Ireland. The market potential is huge and franchisees have the opportunity to develop a business that has the power to really change people’s lives.”

A BodySmart franchise is a suitable business for individuals that are fitness enthusiasts or healthcare professionals, or entrepreneurs that are interested in operating a cluster of fitness studios. A ten machine studio can accommodate up to 500 clients and generate annual profits in excess of €150k. The low start-up cost of €52k means that a Franchisee can get into business quickly and easily.

There is potential for fantastic earnings and scope for multiple sites for each franchisee. BodySmart successfully operates three studios in Dublin and Galway. BodySmart is the brainchild of Morgan Pierce, an American national and entrepreneur with significant start-up experience. Morgan has spent the last two years designing and developing a simple and effective franchise concept which is now ready to roll out to the larger Irish market.

Morgan Pierce says “I believe personal training combined with powerful technology is the future of exercise. This is the perfect model for aspiring entrepreneurs interested in running a lifestyle business in the health and fitness industry. The space required for a studio is tiny as compared to any other fitness concept, and with the market in its current state, it’s easy to find suitable property at an affordable rent. A studio can generate significant revenues and provide a lifelong career that is financially and personally motivating. With Marc O’Dwyer as part of our management team, I feel we are poised to create a strong brand and deliver long-term value to our franchisees.” To search Gym Franchises for Sale in Ireland, please see our listing on this site.

The Ink World Franchises Ireland 2011:  If you’re considering investing in a franchise in Ireland there are a few things you’ll want to know. Investing in a franchise is one of the most attractive ways of starting a business. A proven business model, a strong brand and support from people who’ve ‘been there and done that’ all add up to make franchising an ideal opportunity for a growing number of people from all walks of life.

Of course, when you do invest you’ll want to make sure that the opportunity stacks up – and an Ink World Ireland Franchise is just such an opportunity.

* A successful and established business who are full members of the Irish Franchise Association
* Low initial investment and low management costs – keeping more of your money in your bank account
* Simple, effective business model with a low cost base and excellent profit potential
* Massive and growing market
* Detailed practical training and hands on, personal support
* Quality marketing materials, professional website and support with your launch
* A strong environmental message
* Huge potential in Ireland for the right franchisees

Of course, just about any business can look good on paper – and Ink World Ireland certainly does. But what really sets us apart from other franchise opportunities in Ireland is the personal attention we pay to our Irish franchisees. When we took on the Irish Master Franchise four years ago we knew we had the potential to expand to over 50 locations both North and South. We also knew that to achieve that ambition it would be the success of our franchisees that would be most important.

From our own experiences we know how important an investment a franchise is. That’s why we do everything we can to make the decision making process – and getting your successful franchise off the ground – as easy as possible. With that in mind we wholeheartedly welcome your questions and enquiries.

Massive, Growing Market

Over 1.4 million inkjet cartridges were refilled in the UK & Ireland in 2005 with growth estimated to reach over 8 million by 2011. With a new black Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) inkjet cartridge costing around €30, both business and personal customers can save up to 80% with professional refills from Ink World. Everyone who uses a printer is a potential customer – businesses, home users and schools can all save with Ink World.

A successful business model and established company

The first Ink World store opened in May 2003 in Nuneaton, Warwickshire, England. Ink World launched the Ink World franchise programme at the National Franchise Exhibition at the NEC in October 2004. With thirteen stores already trading in the UK, with more to follow shortly, Ink World gives you the opportunity to build a solid business in the Inkjet Refilling market.

In January 2007, Harry Taylor the Ink World franchisee in Belfast E, Co. Antrim purchased the master licence for the whole of Ireland, and is now responsible for franchisee recruitment and development in Northern & Southern Ireland. There are four further Northern Ireland franchise stores in Newtownards, Co. Down, Belfast W, Co. Antrim, Glengormley, Co. Antrim and Cookstown, Co. Tyrone with more locations ready to open in Ireland and room for up to 50 more to come – creating a fantastic opportunity for franchisees from across the country. And, for the most ambitious, it also creates a unique opportunity to develop a thriving business across multiple locations or even an entire region.

Training:

Ink World Ireland offers a one-on-one weeks training program at its training store. The training program consists of full technical and commercial training, which is then backed up with a further period of on-site "hand holding" at your new location - to ensure you’re confident in the day-to-day running of your business. Most importantly, once you’re up and running we’re available on the phone (and in person when required) whenever you need us to answer questions, provide advice and lend a helping hand where needed. As an Irish franchisee you’ll also benefit from ongoing and hands on support from Master Franchisee Harry Taylor who himself runs a hugely successful Ink World store in Belfast.

Environmental Benefits:

Consider the environmental benefits too. In 2000, Recycler Magazine estimated that over 47 million inkjet cartridges end up in landfill sites each year in the UK & Ireland.

By refilling inkjet cartridges, millions of cartridges are re-used saving valuable space at landfill sites. It can take up to 1,000 years for an inkjet cartridge to decompose and it can take up to 6 pints of oil to produce one new inkjet cartridge.

The Ink World Ireland Website:

Our popular website at www.inkworld.ie enables online ordering 24 hours a day. It’s also an excellent way for customers in your area to find out pricing information before visiting their local Ink World Ireland store - giving your customers the best of both worlds. As an Ink World Ireland franchisee, you would profit from orders placed online on a profit share basis.

Locations:

Our professional and compact store layouts (usually 350-500 ft2) mean low rents and low fit out costs and basing our stores in busy secondary locations saves franchisees thousands in rental costs.

The Range

In addition to our huge range of compatible and manufacturer original cartridges – not to mention refills - Ink World Ireland also stocks a wide range of office and home office supplies and consumables. This large and growing range delivers more revenue opportunities for you and a more complete service for your customers.

Members of the IFA

Ink World Ireland are full members of the Irish Franchise Association which means that our Franchise Agreement, Franchise Offer and literature have all been accredited by the IFA.

Finance

The maximum total investment required is around €34,995 (+ VAT which is reclaimable) and includes everything you’ll need to get your successful franchise up and running:

• A substantial budget for shop fitting is included in the total investment shown.
• Advance rent for your first 3 months trading
• Your legal costs
• €5,000 worth of stock at cost.
• All your equipment, stationery and insurance.
• Launch publicity including newspaper advertising, a mail shot to local businesses, leaflet distribution to local households, launch day promotions and local PR.

Vitally, our growing relationship with key high street banks means that, subject to status, the major banks offer Ink World Ireland Franchisees business loan facilities of up to 60% (sometimes more) of the total requirement, including Working Capital. We will also help with drawing up a business plan for presentation to your bank.

Who is Ideal?

Our training assumes that franchisees come from an unrelated career or business background and therefore previous experience is certainly not necessary. Enthusiasm and commitment are obviously the right kind of personal qualities and, as in any retail business, being a good communicator is essential.

Award Winning Franchisees

Our franchisees have won awards including 'Franchisee of the Month' in Business Franchise magazine, the official journal of the British Franchise Association.

Comments from existing Ink World Ireland franchisees

“I have always had an ambition to run my own business. I looked at various franchises and after much thought and deliberation I decided to go with Ink World. After talking with Harry I knew I had made the right decision there and then.

Ink World is without doubt the best decision I have ever made and I would like to thank Harry for giving me this opportunity and helping me along every step of the way.

The business concept really does work.

I have been amazed by the way things have taken off in my area”
Ron Gillespie, Ink World Newtownards

To search Franchising Opportunities in Ireland, please click the Home link above.

Investing money into a new venture can be a good way of putting extra capital to work in order to make a profit. There are plenty of ways to invest capital from merely putting it in a high interest bank account or investing it into a business opportunity. Generally, the more riskier the investment the bigger the pay back or loss. When you place an investment into a savings bank account you’re confident your capital is going to be safe, on the other hand the gain you will get from the invested capital is often low. It’s also associated directly to the interest rates at that time, hence if interest rates go down, the benefit from your investment may also be reduced.

Many people choose to make an investment into the stock market which can be an activity that carries much higher risk. The profits can be high for those who have taken the time to know the reasoning behind the way stocks and shares move, however for people who are uninitiated it could be a fast way to lose your money. Property is another recognised investment preference having a pretty sturdy track record. Although property markets can go up and down in the short term, they have a tendency to rise gradually in the long term. As a result many investors put funds in property because they want to see a positive benefit in the future.

Investing capital into a business venture is a well-liked option. You will find a few methods to do this by means of either starting a new enterprise or looking for an established one that is already operating. Opting for a franchise may improve the success rate further because a franchise business relies on a proven franchise formula. Quite a number of franchise business opportunities can be run as management franchises which are perfect for individuals who wish to put capital into a business venture but not be hampered with the actual every day running of the business. By employing staff to operate the franchise business, it is possible to manage the business without getting your hands soiled.

There are also franchise resales which are franchise businesses which have already been setup and have been trading for some time. Deciding on a franchise resale may help to further lower risk as you will benefit from a business history to look at prior to deciding to put your cash into it. No investment is completely devoid of some risk, nevertheless a franchise system provides the extra support of a tried and tested business formula along with training and support. Generally speaking, the success rate of a franchise is good with nine out of ten franchisees each year turning a profit according to Natwest/BFA annual franchise industry surveys. Whether or not you choose to put money into a franchise opportunity or some other business venture, one point is for sure: the success of the business (and the return on your initial investment) will likely be measured by your commitment, hard work and dedication.

With three franchised LIPA 4:19 academies already established and two more opening in the new year, Franchise Manager Kerry Watkins, is eager to continue its successful expansion with the launch of its first European academy.

“Our first European LIPA 4:19 academy was launched at the start of January 2011,” reveals Kerry. “I will go over to Bulgaria in the new year to assist with staff training, marketing, the academy launch and establishing the day-to-day running of the business.” Martina Nenova will be the franchise owner of the new LIPA 4:19 academy, which will hold its classes at The Metropolitan Hotel in Sofia.

Art directors Boris Pankin and Evgeni Gospodinov will also be working alongside Martina and will be in responsible for supplying the creative team and teachers. She approached the LIPA 4:19 franchise team, as she was very impressed with the curriculum and variety the academy had to offer.  “Martina had a real passion for the performing arts and I know that she will do a brilliant job managing their LIPA 4:19 academy,” enthuses Kerry. “With a venue like the Metropolitan Hotel in Sofia. , which has excellent teaching and performance facilities, the academy is sure to gain a lot of interest in the local area.”

“To ensure the new LIPA 4:19 academy gets the publicity and recognition it deserves, we will be holding a press conference with Bulgarian TV and radio stations from the local area to generate a buzz.” Since its launch 8 years ago, the LIPA 4:19 brand has successfully established its reputation as a quality and unique business opportunity, which has been confirmed by its recent British Franchise Association ‘Associate’ accreditation.

“When we awarded our first LIPA 4:19 franchise, we was very thorough with the selection process to ensure we had the highest calibre of franchise owners,” explains Kerry. “As the company started out small, we wanted to make sure we steadily built a quality brand and not just let anyone become part of the LIPA 4:19 network.” LIPA 4:19 is the only children’s performing arts academy that is directly linked to an established art institution – the Liverpool Institute of Performing Arts.

LIPA 4:19 classes are open to all children and young adults between the ages of four and 19 looking to explore and express creativity through singing, dance and drama. LIPA 4:19 is looking for franchise owners who have a passion for the performing arts and a good head for business. Previous experience working in the performing arts industry or with children would be an advantage but with the assistance of the LIPA 4:19 franchise team, franchise owners will receive all the training and support they will need.

Why should I pick a LIPA 4:19 Franchise instead of starting my own company or theatre/stage school?

One of the most important questions to be answered for any franchisee! The simple answer is because of the difficulties a newly-formed and not yet established company or theatre/stage school will face in the first 18 months of trading. At LIPA 4:19 we’ve been there so you won’t have to. As a LIPA 4:19 franchisee you will be able to tap into the immediate support available, as well as utilize the renowned LIPA 4:19 brand for marketing and promotional purposes. The support allows you to concentrate on the running of a successful LIPA 4:19 Franchise.

What support can I expect?

We have a professional support team who assist with the launch of every franchise and provide an ongoing service. The combination of our transferred skills, knowledge and procedures, and your commitment, determination and professionalism are key to the successful operation of a LIPA 4:19 Franchise.

Will I receive any training?

We provide comprehensive training in all aspects of the LIPA 4:19 Franchise business. This is delivered at the Liverpool Institute for Performing Arts, and you will receive a comprehensive grounding into our marketplace, teaching style, curriculum and operations. You will also have the opportunity to benefit from proven marketing strategies used by existing franchises.

What are the advantages of LIPA 4:19 Franchises for students?

There are many advantages including a focused LIPA curriculum for each age group and discipline, a direct link with the Liverpool Institute for Performing Arts, exams taken through accredited boards, the LIPA ethos of social inclusion and equal opportunities, and a fun and friendly environment for all.

Why have other franchise owners chosen LIPA 4:19?

There are many reasons, including the immediate credibility of being affiliated to the Liverpool Institute for Performing Arts; the invitations to LIPA events including masterclasses given by such well-known names as Sir Paul McCartney, Sir Ian McKellen, Dawn French and Robin Gibb; the back-up of a dedicated, experienced franchise team and the possibility of attractive financial returns.

Is this a growing market?

The potential audience is the 12 million young people aged 19 or under, so there are plenty of people to appeal to. There is also a growing demand from parents for high quality educational activities for their children, especially where there are tangible benefits in terms of greater confidence and self-esteem, social inclusion and group skills.

To search Franchise Business Opportunities for sale in Ireland, please click the Home link above.

What made you decide to start your own business?

I worked for an investment bank before I had my first child, Lukas, and was frustrated at how little time I got to spend with him when I returned to work following his birth. It seemed to be an "all or nothing" situation – it was not possible to perform my role part time.

I also struggled to spend time away from my son every day doing a job which I did not really view as making a difference. For the first 2 years of his life, I saw very little of Lukas, and then decided to take some time out, as I had had enough! I set up Little Kickers for him and his young friends at that time, mainly because he was a very lively boy and wouldn't sit still in the music (etc!) classes which were all that was available then.

Also, he LOVED football – I spent every day out on Wandsworth Common with him in London – I was always in goal and he scored penalty after penalty... At that point I decided to set something up for him and his friends, and it just grew from there, really.

What have been your biggest challenges so far?

There have been a few – managing cashflow was certainly one of the biggest, at least in the initial stages. The business did not take out any loans so money was always tight, so it grew on a shoestring with much of the initial money it made being reinvested to grow the business organically.Working out how to grow the business (and taking the associated risks!) has also been challenging, but fun.

I was not very familiar with franchising when Little Kickers first decided to go down that route, and it was a steep learning curve, but a very interesting one. This continues to be challenging as the business expands into new markets, particularly non English-speaking ones, and into new products. Finally, managing people is always challenging, particularly as the business grows, and franchisees are at different stages of their business lifecycle. However, I also find working with the rest of the team the most enjoyable aspect of my job.

How did you overcome these challenges?

Cashflow – we kept a very close eye on our budgets and tried only to spend whatever was really necessary to expand the business. If there was anything we could do ourselves, we did it (and still do!) Developing the business – I am a great believer in developing good relationships and feel that this is more important than any form of contractual agreement (even though we obviously ensure our legal docs are as watertight as possible).

Entering new markets can be quite intimidating, but provided you have a local partner you know and trust and get along well with, you're 90% of the way there. Managing people – it's a cliche, but I try to treat others as I would like to be treated.

What advice or tips would you give to other business owners?

Be prepared to get your hands dirty and become a "jack of all trades". Act with integrity and don't allow money to be your main consideration. If you set up a good business the money should follow.Always act in the best interests of the business. Treat other people fairly but don't allow anyone's actions to damage the business. Take some risks – it's more fun that way!

What's your favourite quote?

"You miss 100% of the shots you don't take" – Wayne Gretzky

Who inspires you?

The Little Kickers Head Office Team and our franchisees.

For further information on Franchises available in Ireland, please click the Home link above.

Although Karen is the franchise owner she stresses the every day tasks of running the greeting card distribution business are a real team effort. "I do most of the merchandising," explains Karen. "This involves visiting stores to deliver stock and ensuring displays always look fresh and up-to-date with seasonal items like Valentine's Day Cards or Mother's Day cards for example. However, Richard manages the essential back office processes which include keeping control of the accounts, ordering and stock selection, route management and packing. We also have a part time assistant who helps with stock delivery. A typical day can involve visiting between three and fourteen retail stores depending on their size and location to deliver greetings cards and gift items like bottle bags, Heart Warmers or Card Connections popular Flashing Badges. Stores vary from small independents, newsagents and supermarkets and Karen even merchandises for seven stores on the Butlins Holiday Resort at Minehead.

The Card Connection greeting cards and gifts are placed in retail outlets on a 'consignment' basis. This means the stock and display equipment are installed on free loan to the retailer. This is one step beyond 'sale or return' as Card Connection retail customers never have to buy the stock initially, only paying for what they sell, which has proved a particularly popular system over the years. Keen to expand her business, in April 3 years ago Karen purchased a neighbouring Card Connection territory. Her area now extends from Hartland to Minehead in Somerset, through North Devon right through to the East side of Dorset. Karen puts her success down largely to her; "previous experience as a retailer. This means I can see things from the customer's perspective. For example, space is always at a premium and with increasing concerns over health and safety, I can work with the retail managers to ensure the stock displays are optimised while considering maximum convenience for both the retailer and consumer alike.

Being organised when it comes to route planning for deliveries is also important, she continues. Now with the bigger territory, making sure all the retailers are merchandised efficiently on a regular basis is key. There are many things I like about being a Card Connection franchisee," concludes Karen. "The flexibility of self employment is a major advantage. I work hard but the hours are sensible compared with when we owned the newsagents! I am excited about the future and with the expansion of the territory am looking forward to capitalising on that investment over the next few years. To search Irish Franchises for Sale, please click the Home link above.

Life Does Begin at 40! Medics on the Move Franchisee!

As Richard Mason approached his 40th birthday, he began to think carefully about his hectic working life and whether he wanted to carry on at the same frenetic pace, doing the same thing, for another 20-odd years. The more he thought about it, the more he realised that he did not. I worked in senior management in the NHS and had spent all my working life in the public sector, Richard said. The work itself was interesting and exciting and gave me a real buzz. What I minded was the time I spent commuting to the office in London and then travelling to meetings, conferences and all the other events, because I hardly saw my family. My two little children were asleep when I left in the morning and back in bed by the time I came home again, he continued.

When Richard decided to leave his well-paid job to be his own boss, he considered a range of options that included franchising, starting a business from scratch or buying an existing venture. Recognising that he had no small business experience, he thought it might be sensible to become a franchisee and enjoy the benefits of being independent while still part of a much larger organisation with all its support systems in place. It was a shrewd decision, Richard said. I felt that for me franchising was the best route to self-employment, so I did some research and then went to the London franchise exhibition with a list of companies I wanted to talk to. I think it is very important to meet people face to face, so you can judge whether you will get on well together over a long time and to confirm both parties have similar values and aspirations.

When I went on to the Medics on the Move Franchise Opportunity stand to talk to founder directors Carole Stubbs and Vickie Knighton I was very impressed by their energy and self-belief. I was also impressed by the service they offered because, having worked in the NHS and understanding the way medics have to move around frequently, I knew that there was a crying need for it, Richard continued. Richard became a franchisee in July six years ago. His knowledge of the NHS and how it worked proved to be an enormous help to getting the business off to a flying start as he could empathise with his medical clients about their accommodation and relocation problems.

He felt comfortable working for himself in this very worthwhile sector and his business grew rapidly through word-of-mouth recommendation. He comments, I set out to provide a reliable, decent and personal service and to treat people with respect and courtesy. It seems that this approach is increasingly unusual, judging by comments from clients who have had poor experiences in the past. I think it is very important to look after clients properly, to communicate with them regularly and to keep promises. It is very rewarding and clients are so appreciative when you help them. The business’s growth is well ahead of expectations, which is amazing since we have never had to advertise and people just keep coming to us. It meant I was beginning to work longer hours than I really wanted so Ive just brought in a new business partner, Ariana Gee, to share the load and help me to restore my work life balance again.

To search Franchising Opportunities for sale in Ireland, please click the Home link above.