Name: Martin O'Callaghan

Company Name: The Ultimate Floor Sanding Co

Location: West Cork / Kerry

Length of time in operation: Nov 2007 

Professional background before becoming a franchisee: Trade Union Official 

Why did you become involved in franchising: For the support available at start up 

Why did you choose this franchise business: Because I believed it was something I could do myself and the fact that wooden floors have become the in thing over the past 10 years so someone needs to service them, why not me 

How did you research the company before setting up: Many hours on the internet and also through phone calls to other operators portending to be a client 

How did the master franchise help you starting a business in Ireland: They were extremely helpful, every aspect of the business was covered in the initial training and the ongoing support has been invaluable 

Does the master franchise continue to help you on an ongoing basis: see above 

What difficulties did you face starting off: Marketing is difficult, and trying to set a realistic value on each ob but remain competitive is also difficult

How did you overcome these difficulties: With the help of master franchise and with a lot of effort 

What advice would you give to others who have just started franchising or are looking for a franchise business in Ireland:  Take all the help and advice you get from anyone in business and also be prepared to work harder than you ever have. Hard work and putting in the hours will bring the rewards if you are honest with the customer