Why training and belief in the franchisor is critical when starting a new life in franchising.
Name: Jacqui & Mick Statham
Location: Derbyshire/ Sheffield
Franchise: Dream Doors
Why I chose franchising
Having looked at many business options we decided that buying into a franchise was going to be the safest way for us to start our own business from scratch. We wanted to be able to hit the ground running with a new business without having to go through a lot of the many learning curves and pain barriers a new venture would most certainly have in store for us, something that could be up and running quickly, help with training and product supply, capable of giving us an income in the first few months. It needed to be proven and established with the backing of a head office and area managers to assist us when we need help and advice.
Why I chose Dream Doors
We both felt that Dream Doors, the kitchen facelift franchise would fulfil all the above, we would be able to work together whilst, using our different working backgrounds to great effect, but most importantly, we both believed in the concept, the product and Dream Doors. We felt they could help us to develop a business that would give us the life style we wanted and a successful company that would be well recognised and respected in the local community.
What I did before taking up a franchise
Jacqui had spent the last few years working in retail, selling everything from camping equipment to baby’s clothes to wedding dresses. She particularly enjoyed the latter with the one to one contact and the attention to detail that was required with brides to be. Mick had many years in engineering, from working on the shop floor to project management and production control to being involved in a management buyout.
How I raised the finance
We used our savings and borrowed against the house to raise the money for the franchise fee and some of the start up cost plus we approached the HSBC for a business loan, enough for additional start up costs and 6 months working capital.
The training and support I receive from my franchisor
Through their training and support Dream Doors have enabled us to be up and running within only a few month, they provided an initial intense training course. There is ongoing support and training from our Regional Manager, marketing back up with Product brochures and DVD’s, pre-designed advertisement and editorial. As well as other Dream Doors Kitchen facelift specialists franchisees to call upon we have quarterly business coaching courses covering sales, building regulations and finance and appliance appreciation.
The challenges we have faced
We both have different skills so have faced different challenges. Jacqui’s biggest area of concern is the measuring, planning and gaining the confidence knowing that what she recommends to the customer is possible for the kitchen fitter to do. My main challenge is the sales side of the business, although I believe in the kitchen facelift products, I am not a natural sales person and I am still finding this side of the business very demanding. The initial training and additional training courses have already helped both of us to reach a professional level. Time and experience is moving us forward all the time.
My advice to someone thinking of buying their first franchise
Make sure you believe in the product and the franchisor. Don’t go into anything without the right finance in place. Do lots of homework, you can’t do enough research, checks and business plans. Make sure you have the backing of family and friends because in the early days you will need their help, support and understanding.
My plans for the future
We would like to have our own full time kitchen facelift fitter and shop assistant within the first year and from there we want to be opening a second kitchen facelift shop in year two that will help us to best cover and realise the potential of our territory.
