Franchising proved a fantastic ‘business in a box’ solution for Rob Piper, Poppies Liverpool

Rob Piper is a self-confessed people-person. For almost two decades, his natural flair for communication, employee engagement and customer service saw him excel within Sefton’s Education Authority. Tragically, in 2010, government funding cuts brought an abrupt end to his career. Determined to turn things around, Rob set out in search of his next opportunity and, in 2011, Poppies Liverpool was born. Initially craving more security and the chance to put his skills to good use, Rob’s business now affords the freedom and rewards that have quite literally changed his life.

“Being made redundant is like having the rug pulled out from under your feet. I already knew about franchising and the more I thought about it, the more it appealed. I could really see the benefit of investing in a ‘business in a box’. I didn’t have to invent anything; systems and processes would be in place for me, training is given, and you’re supported from day-one by head office. These were key selling points of Poppies for me – that and being able to make a difference in other people’s lives.”