Have 2 vans full of work and the customers keep coming in every week! So its either start getting rid of a few or franchise, as dont want the hassle of another van and more employees, but not quite sure were to start with franchising, I know Ian Lancaster was selling a package a few years back but not sure if he still is. Anyond else on here that has went down franchising route?
A few points:
Ian Lancaster is still selling the franchising package. It's worth every penny. It's clear from dealing with Ian over the past few years that he's not doing this to become rich; he's doing it because he believes in it. Part of the package is support after you're going. If you're going to do it, please do speak to Ian. He's utterly approachable and very knowedgeable.
His contract is proven in court. Someone tried to take business themselves and Ian won. This leads to a second point. On this subject, ignore each and every word posted by one particular person. I'll leave you to work out who is posting the nonsense.
Like everything else, franchising is a trade-off. You take less cash but you also take on less hassle than you would employing.
The four most crucial aspects of franchising:
1. Get the contract right. Skimping on it is a false economy as there may come a time when your business relies on it. If you're going to have your own done, find a solicitor who specialises in franchising.
2. Get the right people. You need people who have been in steady employment who have realised that working for someone else is not the be all and end all of life.
3. Always be there for support and advice. If you're feeling like a day off or if you've just started your dinner and a franchisee has an urgent problem, go and deal with it.
4. And this is the most important one. So important that it's on an engraved sign above my desk. Always do what's in the best interests of the franchisees.
Vin
