What was your previous occupation and why did you leave?
Before I opened my first store I used to be in the mobile phone repair business, and prior to that I was in the catering industry. I have always had a huge interest in gadgets so CeX was ideal for me.
Why did you decide to look into franchising?
I wasn’t particularly looking at franchising but I wanted to be part of Cex, luckily for me this was a possibility.
What was your criteria for a franchise?
A well established and recognised retail brand was the most important aspect to me when choosing a franchise, and CeX ticked both of those boxes.
Where did you find out about the CeX franchise?
I first read about it on the CeX website, then I got hold of the franchise magazine, I read a few case studies on there which inspired me to apply.
What appealed most about a CeX franchise?
I wanted to be a part of a large organisation that I had a passion for without taking a huge risk. CeX’s fast growth in a short amount of time assured me of the chances of success with the venture.
What training did you receive?
I received 400 hours of in-store training both in corporate and franchise store’s, starting from the basic sales assistant training, supervisor and managers role. I also had to attend an all in one course, HR course which was based in london.
How would you rate it?
Very highly. In hindsight this was one of the most important aspects, 400 plus hours might seem extensive which was a challenge, there was a lot to take on board in the early stages but it says a lot about the company and direction they wanted to go in.
Since becoming a franchise owner is it how you expected it to be?
Yes very much so, I really enjoy what I do. having just opening my second store I know exactly what to expect which makes the whole process easier.
What type of support have you received?
Everybody cannot do enough to assist, from my Franchise Manager, to the Operations Manager and all the support team. Everyone is a phone call away whenever I need them. In particular, my Franchise Manager helping with every aspect gave me the free time to concentrate on my training and development.
What aspect of it have you found most beneficial?
All the useful departments, IT, Marketing, Trainings, pricing, anytime I need assistants with anything I have somebody I can contact anytime.
What is your current turnover – are you on target to meet your business plan?
My current turnover is 1.7 million in the first 20 months in my first store (Tonbridge). I am hoping to achieve an annual turnover of 2.3 million with both stores combined. Hastings turnover in the first week was 31k. It’s early days but this is a very good indicator that the store will perform over expectations.
Do you feel the CeX has fulfilled their obligations?
Yes, most definitely.
What do you enjoy most about your business? – How has it improved your lifestyle?
The most enjoyable factor for me has been the opportunity to motivate my staff and see them enjoy their work as much as I do himself. Being my own boss, also afford the freedom to do other tasks required elsewhere, as CeX’s powerful tools are available for me to keep track of performance even if I am not personally in-store.
What are your future plans for the business?
My future planes is the grow my two stores to it maximum potential and expand and open two more stores in the next 3-4 years.
What sort of person do you think a CeX franchise would suit?
Someone hardworking, enjoys leading and motivating, but most importantly having good people skills is essential.
