Location: Wokingham
When office opened: June 2004
Annual Turnover: £1.4 million
Number of staff: 6
What did you do before becoming a Northwood franchisee?
I worked in electronics as a layout designer.
Why did you go down the franchise route?
Completely changing industry is a daunting prospect so having the support and training was an essential for me.
Why did you choose Northwood?
Northwood Wokingham was up for sale and an established business with the backing of the franchise office was very appealing.
What differentiates Northwood from the competition?
Having a unique product, Northwood’s Guaranteed Rent, was a big attraction as differentiation is an important part of any business.
How did you raise the finance?
We were able to borrow the money from family.
What training and support did you receive initially when setting up?
The initial training was comprehensive and got us up to speed on the bespoke software, legislation and using Sage for the accounts. The training was great and it was also very useful to get to know several of the staff at the franchise office, who conducted the training. There is only so much you can learn sat in a training room so it’s the telephone support you receive afterwards that is priceless.
What ongoing support do you receive ongoing?
One of the best pieces of advice I received was to use the franchise office support as much as you need, because that’s what you’ve paid for! I spent many hours the first few weeks on the phone and even two years later we’re regular callers checking our interpretation of contract issues or looking for advice. Everyone we’ve spoken to has been well informed and they’ve been unfailingly friendly in their support.
The ongoing training courses are invaluable and ensure you’re kept up to date with everything from changing legislation to the best way to utilise social media. All of this training is included.
What is a typical day for you as a franchisee?
There isn’t one and that’s one of the things I love! I might be speaking to a prospective landlord followed by a vendor just before I’m talking to a local school about a competition we’re running with them.
What marketing tools do you use to grow your franchise?
Anything and everything! We’ve run competitions, deliver a lot of canvassing cards and are active on social media. We try to reach people by being part of the local community.
What has been the biggest challenge you have faced in owning & running a franchise?
Trying to decide between the 50 things I could be doing next! Managing my time is a constant challenge because there’s always something new to learn or a new marketing idea to try.
How has becoming a franchisee changed your life?
The freedom to make your own decisions is a wonderful change from corporate life. I love trying out new ideas and knowing the only limit is my imagination.
In your opinion, what makes a successful franchisee?
Someone who communicates well and can adapt to the varied challenges. Every day is different and you need to be happy with that kind of business.
What advice would you give to someone thinking of buying their first franchise?
Does it look exciting to you? Can you see yourself in every role in the business, because you’ll need to know how to do it all! Find out as much as you can and speak to as many people as you can. There’s nothing like chatting to someone in that job to see if it’s for you.
What are your plans for the future of your franchise?
We’re building up the Wokingham office and plan to open further local offices in the future.
Would you do it all again?
Absolutely!
