Ableworld, one of the UK’s leading mobility retailers, have recently welcomed on board their two latest franchise partners. Ableworld, who are very strong in the north west of the country are particularly pleased that the two new franchises are in the east of the country; one in Darlington and one in Newark-on-Trent.        

First off the blocks were Steve and Julie Cunningham (pictured) who opened the doors of their new mobility super store in August. Julie, who previously spent over 30 years in financial services, commented “Steve and I decided that we wanted to have a change of direction and also wanted the opportunity of working together. The mobility sector is one of the few retail propositions that make commercial sense at the moment with many more people living longer and requiring a little bit of assistance. We spent over two years searching for the right opportunity and we were lucky that Ableworld were looking to expand their successful concept in the north east”.

Following very shortly behind were Mark Hennis and Naomi Moore who, after a very short lead time, were able to start trading at their store in Newark early in September.

When asked why they chose to partner with Ableworld, Mark said “Having researched numerous businesses over the last year we were looking for not only a great product but also a trustworthy and competent business partner we could work with. With Ableworld and the founder’s extensive retail experience combined with the backing of his knowledgeable and dedicated staff we believe we have found a good match.”
Paul Boniface, Ableworld’s Franchise Director adds “I’m delighted to say that both stores have started well. In fact Darlington broke our all-time, first-week sales record in August only to see it comfortably topped by Mark and Naomi and Newark in September”.

Another store is due to open in Lancashire later this year and Ableworld intend to continue opening new outlets at a steady but realistic pace in 2012.