Case Study - Paul Davies
New City, the commercial cleaning management business which originally started in November 2000, only recently branched out along the franchising route as a means of meeting the increasing national demand for their services. As with any business new to franchising, it is the vision of the "early adopters" – the pioneering franchisees who put their trust into the franchisor's pilot systems and support infrastructure that really prove the strength of the concept.
Paul Davies, who took on the Three Counties franchise territory based near Hereford is just such a person, and as with all successful systems it is much down to the approach of the franchisee as it is the franchisor for this partnership to bear fruit. New City's managing director Caroline Meredith says "Paul has already demonstrated all of the hallmarks of a franchisee destined for success. We were impressed with his approach right from the outset; his preparation and research prior to starting with us indicated that he would be a safe pair of hands to represent our brand, and we have been delighted with his results already"
Paul told us "Prior to joining New City I'd spent over 17 years in the care sector, working for local authorities and private care organisations. Having held management roles in social care as well as in information technology and manufacturing, I had gained a great deal of experience providing customer focused services". Paul tells us he shares New City's nationwide commitment to quality and is "looking forward to providing exceptional customer service" to his clients throughout this area. "I wanted a business model which enabled me to 'hit the ground running' and although I had never explored franchising previously it seemed a natural fit. By joining up with New City it gave me the opportunity to develop a business in a new industry to me by having an existing structure and proven successful model to build upon as well. Having the authority to make my own decisions regarding the business was another important factor to me. Although I have a little experience in sales and marketing, having the New City team supporting me in terms of opening doors for meetings with potential clients is a great benefit and means I can concentrate on gaining new clients in a structured and cost effective manner. My business is only part-way through its first year since launch, and yet already I am well-ahead of my targets and business plan, which keeps me, the bank and New City happy!"
