Case Study - Philip Edwards

Philip left school at 16 to undertake a two-year National Diploma in Advanced Engineering. At the same time he worked a couple of days a week for a local garage where he'd been helping out on a Saturday since his school days. He continued his studies with an NVQ in Motor Vehicle Maintenance before joining the garage full-time.

Phil: "I always liked playing around with cars so it was the only job I was ever really interested in."

Unfortunately, after a couple of years working at the garage Phil developed a debilitating dermatitis, caused by an allergy to some metals and to certain cleaning materials.

"My boss was brilliant and we tried everything to put it right -- different protective creams, wearing gloves, but nothing had any effect. In the end I was moved onto light duties, administrative work, deliveries and that kind of thing."

Ultimately, Phil decided to move on and began working for tyre-fitting companies, first on the commercial vehicle side and then at Kwikfit until January 2010 when a chance encounter at a show at the NEC turned his head towards franchising ...

How and where did you first come across Mac Tools?

"I saw the Mac Tools stand at the Autosport Show at the NEC and got to thinking. I hadn't thought about franchising seriously before, but I'd spent thousands of pounds on Mac Tools as a mechanic so I knew the products were really good. I wasn't sure I'd be able to afford it, so I had a chat with Mark Stenning and Paul Clegg, and they were really friendly and helpful."

"After the show I contacted them again with some more questions, and they gave me all the info I needed. I wanted to know exactly what I would get for my investment in terms of support and training.

"I was massively impressed by their attitude and professionalism. There was absolutely no pressure and they did their best to help me out in any way they could. They put me in touch with other Mac Tools Franchisees so I could talk to people actually doing the job, which I found really useful. All the feedback was good."

Phil went away and had a think about it ...

"After weighing up all the pros and cons I decided that I'd be gutted if I didn't go for it and give it a try. My parents had their reservations as I'm still pretty young, but they agreed that I'd regret it if I didn't do it. They support me 100%."

So, in June 2010 Phil commenced the Mac Tools Training programme, comprising one weeks basic training at the Mac Tools Training Centre in Sheffield, followed by an intensive 2 week training course in the States including a graduation ceremony, and then some more fine-tuning back in Sheffield.

How did you find the training?

"The style of training was excellent. They kept it interesting and relevant the whole time. The trainers are so enthusiastic and knowledgeable -- you're raring to go by the time you leave!"

Phil's first week as a Mac Man began on Monday 12 July 2010...

How did you find your first days/weeks? How have customers responded to your age?

"I had a really good first day and even managed to sell 250 worth of tools! Because I'm young I do come across the odd older garage owner or mechanic who questions my abilities, but you do find quite a lot of young people working in garages so I'm not that unusual.

"Plus, I'm pretty confident in my knowledge and skills because I've spent most of my adult life working in garages of some description. I've got a first hand understanding of the challenges that mechanics face and I can find them the right tool for the job."

What do you like most about being a Mac Man?

"I really like meeting people and it's a real buzz when you get a big sale. I really like the products.

"My future prospects have improved dramatically and I have ample opportunities to develop the business."

Would you recommend becoming a franchisee?

"I would definitely recommend becoming a franchise owner. It's a total lifestyle change for me being out on the road and having paperwork to do, but I feel very satisfied in the knowledge that I progress and improve week by week. It’s great to be part of such a forward thinking, friendly and supportive company that has an excellent reputation."