Case Study - Darran Perkins

Darran Perkins was manager at Driver Hire's Cardiff office for two years. When his boss and franchise owner decided to sell, Darran spotted a perfect opportunity to invest. "I guess you could say that running the business gave me some insider knowledge," says Darran. "There's also a bit of business wisdom that says a recession is a good time to start a business. I say that on the basis that if you can work through the recession, it will be plain sailing when business picks up."

And business is already picking up. With the assistance of former colleague Nick Morgan, Darran has led the Cardiff office to a phenomenal 60% increase in year-on-year sales turnover in his first few months. Their efforts resulted in them winning the network 'Office of the month Award' for August 2009.

So does Darran reckon he made the right decision? "Very definitely," he responds. "I'm really enjoying it. We've made a number of changes that are helping us win new business and keep our temporary drivers busy. And the best advice I can give anyone considering buying a franchise is to check it out very carefully first. Not all franchises are the same. So look at the business model, its potential and make sure that the franchise is a good one. If it's a full member of the British Franchise Association that's normally a good recommendation."