Alex Clark Lettings Franchise has signed up two high-flying franchisees as the ambitious franchisor begins its goal of taking on 150 franchisees across the UK in the next decade.

Running the Hertford franchise is George Hughes, previously head of IT consulting for a national ferry company and technology director for GreyArcher Technology Plc.

George says: “I knew that I wanted to own and run a family business and that franchising could help me achieve that goal. I looked at a broad range of franchises and property was my preferred sector. This was a big decision for me so I took time to assess a number of opportunities and was drawn to Alex Clark Lettings by the passion, processes and most of all the people in the business. I know we will succeed together and that it will be fun too!”

The company’s fourth franchisee is Commander Peter Greenwood, who has recently retired from the Royal Navy after serving over 30 years in frontline operational roles. Peter has held a variety of posts on mine hunters, destroyers and aircraft carriers as a warfare officer and has been second in command of two Type 23 Duke Class frigates. He has served in the British Embassy in Washington, commanded the Fleet Diving Squadron and most recently was the lead planner for the Royal Navy’s support to the 2012 Olympics.

He says: “Having served my country for over 30 years as part of a first-class but large government organisation I knew that I wanted my second career to be one where I could control my own destiny. By setting up my own business and with hard work and integrity, I one day hope to have a legacy that my children will have the opportunity to take over.

“Taking on a franchise with Alex Clark was the best solution for me as it reduces the initial risk of starting up a new business on my own. A depressing amount of new businesses fail in their first three years of trading but with Alex behind me I know I can use his proven systems and tap into the business acumen he has acquired during his 20 years in the industry to ensure my success. Throughout this journey I know I will receive constant mentoring and support from a superb franchise team.”

Alex himself is very pleased with the latest additions to his network, stating: “We are absolutely delighted to have George and Peter on board. Both have come from hugely impressive backgrounds and as such I know that, quite rightly, they put our franchise model under intense scrutiny. I’m gratified therefore that following their research they have each decided to join the Alex Clark team.

“Their decisions are, I feel, a testament to our professionalism and the strength of our franchise model and I’m very pleased that they chose to invest in an Alex Clark Lettings franchise above any other on the market place today.”