I worked in food retail for 12 years prior to starting my own business, with 10 years at Sainsbury’s and then two years at Co-op as a store manager.
Initially I wasn’t planning on being part of a franchise, I was looking at a fixed premise like a coffee shop or restaurant. However, I also understood the value of being mobile, so I moved to the idea of a food van independently.
When I decided on getting a van from Really Awesome Coffee, I saw the big benefits a franchise has to offer, especially as I’d never been self employed before.
It was all done well. Training was thorough and tailored around my experience. The team at Head Office are great and easy to get on with and learn from.
My launch was great and I enjoyed the process. I wasn’t nervous prior, just unsure about what to expect, but the Franchise Development Managers provided brilliant support and planning prior to the first day.
The ongoing support is always there when needed and it allows you to never miss a beat when planning your strategies and maximising potential from your daily round.
I found suggestions on changes that will improve performance of coffee stops and practical support with things like equipment and the van invaluable.
A normal trading day for me starts at 6:30am, getting the van set up and I’m at my first site for about 7:30am.
I visit 30-35 sites and finish around 3:00pm, then spend a couple of hours once home cleaning down.
Don’t expect it to be a cake walk. I made the best decision for me and have never looked back and take pride in my business, but it can be hard graft at times, especially getting it up and running in the early days, so don’t get disheartened, always edge on the side of caution financially, and prioritise the business need over personal gain. It’s a marathon not a sprint.
If you are interested in exploring more then please call us on 0800 043 0271 or email franchise@reallyawesomecoffee.co.uk
If you would prefer to book on to a free franchise Discovery Day then please book: HERE
