Business Franchise articles from February 2005

Business Franchise archives from February 2005

Wise moves.(franchise news)
February 1, 2005... SIMON WISE, deputy director general of The British Franchise Association (BFA), is putting theory into practice by leaving the organisation to become a franchisee. Wise has worked at the BFA for seven years and has now purchased a Driver...

Feelers out for franchisors.(franchise news)
February 1, 2005... THE BRITISH FRANCHISE ASSOCIATION (BFA) is currently accepting entries for its prestigious Franchisor of the Year Awards. The theme for this year is 'support for success' and franchise companies are invited to submit an entry demonstrating why...

Brit in law group coup.(franchise news)
February 1, 2005... FRANCHISE EXPERT John Pratt from law firm Hamilton Pratt has been appointed chairman of the International Bar Association's prestigious International Franchising Committee--a group of the world's top 500 franchise lawyers. Pratt is only the...

DTI scheme disaster.(franchise news)
February 1, 2005... A GOVERNMENT SCHEME designed to protect householders from unscrupulous so-called 'cowboy' tradesmen has wasted millions of pounds and failed to deliver tangible results, claims the UK's largest emergency plumbing and drain repair business Drain...

Young blood at O'Briens.
February 1, 2005... O'BRIENS IRISH SANDWICH BARS has appointed Nick Young as UK managing director. Young will drive forward plans to expand the business beyond its current total of 140 stores in the UK. 'This is an exciting time for O'Briens,' he says. 'We...

Brown takes charge.
February 1, 2005... THE PROPERTY SEARCH GROUP (PSG) has appointed Tweedie Brown CBE as managing director of personal search provider PSG Franchising Limited. Brown, 56, who reached the rank of Brigadier in the army, was previously the business manager for the...

Swisher gets Carter.
February 1, 2005... SWISHER has appointed David Carter as finance manager, responsible for both Swisher's finance team and the accounts department. He will oversee responsibility for producing all invoices and statements for the network's franchisees and assist...

Stocks and sharing pizzas.(franchise news)
February 1, 2005... STEPHEN HEMSLEY, chief executive of AIM-listed Domino's Pizza UK & IRL PLC, celebrated the launch of the company's first store in central London by personally delivering a pizza to mark the occasion. It was delivered to the Paternoster...

Sir Bernard's special bash.(franchise news)
February 1, 2005... INFLUENTIAL FIGURES from the franchise industry marked Sir Bernard Ingham's tenth anniversary as president of British Franchise Association (BFA) by attending a special event organised by the Mail on Sunday. Key members from the franchise...

Consultancy helps open the range.(franchise news)
February 1, 2005... RANGERS FOOTBALL CLUB is hoping to score big by launching a retail franchise opportunity to maximise its massive merchandising potential. Franchise consultancy The Franchise Company is helping Rangers find experienced retail executives to...

Whole lotta bottle.(franchise news)
February 1, 2005... HOME DELIVERY SPECIALIST Amtrak has revealed it delivered 750,000 bottles of wine to festive revellers in the run up to Christmas 2004, a large increase in shipments compared with the previous Christmas period. 'We saw more than 30,000...

Saks in the city.(franchise news)
February 1, 2005... SAKS, the hair and beauty salon group, has opened its first salon outside of the UK. The new outlet is incorporated into the David Lloyd health club in Uccle, Brussels, and is the first step in the Saks' bid to become the top international...

Coming clean about chores.(franchise news)
February 1, 2005... EMPLOYING HELP with domestic cleaning and household chores is no longer the preserve of traditionally middle-class areas, according to new data gathered by Safeclean, the UK furniture, carpet and upholstery care franchise. Its survey shows...

Dream Doors wows Whitfield.(franchise news)
February 1, 2005... DREAM DOORS has secured the talents of sitcom stalwart June Whitfield as the star of its latest promotional DVD. Whitfield had her kitchen revamped by the Dream Doors' facia replacement specialists and has given the service a ringing...

Riverford scoops BBC award.(franchise news)
February 1, 2005... GUY WATSON from Riverford Organic Vegetables has been named BBC Radio Farmer of the Year at an awards ceremony in Birmingham. Watson is founder of the original farm near Buckfastleigh in Devon from which the Riverford Organic Vegetables...

New paper place.(franchise news)
February 1, 2005... A NEW TAILOR-MADE training centre for PaperFix franchisees has opened in Warrington, equipped with all the latest facilities and resources necessary for training franchisees in the art of servicing binding, laminating and paper-handling...

Meeting of like minds: with new board representatives to elect and anniversaries to celebrate, British Franchise Association (BFA) members had a lot to talk about at the recent Annual General Meeting.(BFA news)
February 1, 2005... THE BFA HELD its 2004 Annual General Meeting (AGM) on 9 December at the Hyatt Regency hotel in Birmingham, which gave the industry a chance to come together to review 2004's developments in franchising and plan for the year ahead. In his...

BFA members speak out.(BFA news)
February 1, 2005... THE BFA CONDUCTED a survey of its membership at the end of 2004, where all member companies were given the opportunity to evaluate in writing the BEA's work in a number of areas. This included asking members to assess the value of BFA...

A piece of the auction.(BFA news)
February 1, 2005... A SIGNED PHOTOGRAPH of Tiger Woods was just one of the items bid for by BFA members to raise money for the Wooden Spoon Society at the British Franchise Association Chairman's Annual Dinner, held on 11 December. Two representatives from...

Flourishing franchises: budding entrepreneurs who fancy a franchise that's a breath of fresh air have an abundance of gardening and lawn care opportunities to consider. Barbara Oaff examines the pick of the bunch.(market focus)
February 1, 2005... According to a survey by Moneywise magazine, the gardening industry contributes 3billion [pounds sterling] to the British economy, which is good news for potential franchisees considering breaking into this blooming business. The British...

Are you up to scratch? With millions of cars on the road and every driver a potential customer, removing chips and scratches from vehicles as a ChipsAway franchisee is proving to be a popular way to make a living.(Cover Story)
February 1, 2005... According to executive chairman Roger Wild, ChipsAway is brimming with so much potential that it can't get franchisees on board fast enough to meet national demand for the service. And although the company has a ten-year track record of...

Right price for care: for a little financial and emotional investment, franchisees with Carewatch Care Services are reaping ample rewards.(promotional feature)
February 1, 2005... Providing care in the home for elderly and disabled people is a challenging task that demands sensitivity, professionalism and extremely high standards. Over the last ten years, Carewatch Care Services has grown to become one of the most...

Angels delight: if you enjoy photography, want to run your own business and can bring out the best in children who look into your lens and say 'cheese' then snap up a franchise with LittleAngels.(promotional feature)
February 1, 2005... Paula Williams, one of LittleAngels' first franchisees, turned 40 in May 2004 and that's when her business life began. She responded to an advertisement in a national paper, signed up for a franchise and hasn't looked back. 'Hitting the...

A taste for a venture: she's worked for a large corporations and travelled the world, but Katie Vinnicombe longed to have a shot at being her own boss, too. Now a Myhome francisee with an impressive client base, she's discovering that business is in her blood.(promotional feature)
February 1, 2005... The Myhome cleaning management franchise has been developed and fine-tuned over a ten-year period, providing a valuable service to thousands of customers who have neither the time, energy nor inclination to do their own household cleaning....

Fly United: you'll have to be swift to keep up with United Carpets: the network is growing apace with renewals snapped up like there's no tomorrow. Matt Pigott talks to one franchisee who's been quick to get in on the act.(promotional feature)
February 1, 2005... Kevin Withey is a successful franchisee on a mission. When I phoned to ask him a few questions about his United Carpets franchises in Lincolnshire, I thought he would be sitting in a little office at the rear of a store on an industrial estate...

Watertight solution: what do you do if you're a successful company but can't recruit workers quickly enough to fulfil customer demand? Turn to franchising, which is exactly what Reactfast is doing to plug the gap now that it's reached saturation point.(new launch)
February 1, 2005... When it comes to plumbing, customers need a company to deliver what it promises and deliver it quickly. When you're up to your waist in free-running water, you don't want to be left on hold on the phone listening to a brass band rendition of...

The millionaire's club: David Charlton is just one of many Minster franchisees to hit the million pound mark. With demand for corporate cleaning assured, more franchisees could soon be joining him.(franchise focus)
February 1, 2005... Minster's Liverpool franchise is about to become the seventh to hit annual sales of more than 1 million [pounds sterling]. Franchisee David Charlton, who took on the Minster branch in January 2004, has consistently produced sales results ahead...

Global brand, local flavour: McDonald's has come a long way since it started as a single outlet in 1940s California. Michele Witthaus talks to Birmingham-based UK franchisee Tony Sealey and discovers healthy options aren't the only new thing on the menu.(franchise focus)
February 1, 2005... For those considering buying a fast food franchise, it's an interesting time to consider McDonald's. In 2004, the UK arm of this international superbrand launched healthy new menu options, tapping into national concerns about poor diet and an...

Smart move: with its striking corporate identity and expanding network of outlets, Smart Cartridge is making waves in the reusable ink cartridge sector. Franchisee Matt Curtis explains why he chose to join the company and why his future is as bright as the brand.(franchise focus)
February 1, 2005... Matt Curtis is a trained graphic designer who recently purchased a Smart Cartridge franchise, which means he has now seen the business in operation from three perspectives--that of a customer, an Edinburgh-based employee and now a franchisee....

Bumper year: Protex is celebrating a year in franchising and with 33 franchisees already onboard, 2005 looks set to offer a fast track to freedom for more lucky recruits.(franchise focus)
February 1, 2005... Protex, the van-based tyre-sealant franchise, is bringing safer motoring to drivers across the country with its special puncture protection system. By preventing blowouts and tyre failures, Protex franchisees can actually save lives. And as...

Heroes in action: when companies aren't running as smoothly as they could, its time to call in a business coach. Become an Action International franchisee and this coach could be you.(promotional feature)
February 1, 2005... The philosophy of 'practise what you preach' has probably never been more clearly demonstrated than by the franchisees of Action International, a global organisation that boasts more than 600 franchisees across the globe. Action International...

Right on the money: looking for a retail franchise with extra sources of income thrown in for good measure? Michele Witthaus meets one couple discovering for themselves that a Cash Generator franchise is a multiple money-spinner.(franchise focus)
February 1, 2005... David Robinson and his wife Carol are fledglings in the world of franchising but already have big plans for their new Cash Generator business in Nottinghamshire. They set up their business just before Christmas 2004, employing six staff...

Fields of gold: gorgeous lawns are never acts of divine intervention--they take hard work, attention to detail and an understanding of the forces of nature. TruGreen franchisees are the budding experts using these skills to cultivate a thriving business.(franchise focus)
February 1, 2005... Of the 20million gardens in the UK, many end up a neglected mess simply because their owners don't have the time or the inclination to look after them. Instead of a lawn that's snooker-table smooth with an emerald glow gardens become...

Time to talk: being part of a large network, franchisees with Auditel and Expense Reduction Analysts have plenty of opportunities to learn from the experiences of their business consultancy colleagues.(promotional feature)
February 1, 2005... With a combined network of more than 230 franchisees, Auditel together with Expense Reduction Analysts (ERA) make up the world's largest cost-management consultancy franchise group, providing services for small, medium-sized and large companies...

Exhibitors by category.(exhibitor listing)
February 1, 2005... ACCOUNTANCY/FINANCIAL ADVICE Auditel & Expense Seduction Analysts M30 TaxAssist Direct Ltd M90 AUTOMOTIVE Car Medic S05 OhipsAway...

The heart of the market: franchising in the Midlands contributes 1.3billion [pounds sterling] to the UK franchise industry's 9.65billion [pounds sterling] annual turnover and is proving to be a strong marketplace for franchising. In particular, the West Midlands is an area to watch for new franchise systems.(exhibition foreword)
February 1, 2005... On behalf of the British Franchise Association, I would like to welcome you to the British Franchise Exhibition (BFE) at G-Mex in Manchester. The BFA is the major sponsor of the four UK franchise exhibitions held each year and the Manchester...

Where, when and what to do.(exhibition information)
February 1, 2005... WHERE: G-Mex, Manchester WHEN: Friday 28 and Saturday 29 January 2005 Opening Times: 10:00 - 17:00 Friday 10:00 - 16:00 Saturday COST: Entry is free with the ticket from the front of this magazine. Entrance costs 10 [pounds...

Free expert advice.(seminar programme)
February 1, 2005... The British Franchise Association (BFA) runs a series of free seminars on both days of the exhibition for everyone looking to find out more about becoming a franchisee or franchisor. These seminars are a forum to gain the valuable advice...

Is franchising right for you? If you're looking to run a business of your own, joining a tried-and-tested franchise system offers a greater chance of success than starting from scratch.(franchise information)
February 1, 2005... Before you part with any money and invest in a franchise, there is work to be done and there are questions to be asked. You will need to thoroughly research the franchise you're interested in, making sure that it is the right one for you and...

Welcome to the future of your business: Dave Wallwork, managing director of The Feel Good Drinks Company, welcomes you to the Growing Your Own Business Showcase and Conference.
February 1, 2005... Growing Your Own Business SHOWCASE & CONFERENCE 28-29 January 2005, Central Hall, G-Mex, Manchester Key details OPENING TIMES: 10:00-17:00 Friday 10:00-16:00 Saturday COST: Entry is free with the ticket from the front...

Your A-Z exhibitor guide.(exhibitor profiles)
February 1, 2005... All entries correct at time of going to press. 247staff T35 Contact name: Les Armitage Employment/ Tel: 0845 225 5025 ...

Growing Your Own Business A-Z exhibitor guide.(exhibitor profiles)
February 1, 2005... A Woman's Place Business Zone GYOB118 Contact name: Dawn Charles Networking events Tel: 01727 752 394 Fax: 020 8754 1800 Website: www.awp.ecademy.com A Woman's Place is a social and business network for...

Who made all the pasties? Oggy Oggy sells around 100,000 Cornish pasties a week through its 22 units and aims to up the ante in 2005, so it's no surprise that the smell of baking success has inspired entrepreneurs with a nose for a fresh franchise opportunity..(franchise focus)
February 1, 2005... Ex-army Red Cap Chris Mark is used to following an ordered system, but the 42-year-old had no idea he would end up putting his affinity for structure to good use in a food franchise. At the 2003 British and International Franchise Exhibition in...

Cooking up a storm: Ovenu franchisees are cleaning up with a flexible business that fits all lifestyles and levels of ambition.(franchise focus)
February 1, 2005... Rik Hellewell, the brains behind the oven cleaning and valeting franchise Ovenu, believes that the secret of a successful franchise is freedom. 'Ovenu franchisees are in a position to run things the way they want to and decide for...

Come rain or shine: a lawn treatment business is appealing when the sun is shining, but even in the cold winter months there is still plenty for Greensleeves franchisees to smile about.(franchise focus)
February 1, 2005... Judy and Jimmy Wilson-Petch started their Greensleeves lawn care company two years ago in Richmond, North Yorkshire. They had two aims in mind--to work out of doors and run a business they would both enjoy. Judy says: 'We were looking for a...

Making it work: for franchisors and franchisees alike, employment law is a potential minefield. Lynda Smedley from law firm Blake Lapthorn Linnell explains the effects of recent changes in legislation and examines new guidelines on acceptable practice in the workplace.(Hot topic: industry expert tackles a current issue in franchising)
February 1, 2005... Franchisors spend a lot of time and effort producing operations manuals to assist franchisees in running their businesses. As part of this process, it is recommended that franchisors provide standard employment documentation for use by their...

Q&A: franchising is a complex business and it is often hard to know where to turn for reliable advice. Help is at hand--ask our selected panel of industry experts, who offer invaluable advice on franchising in every issue.(franchise advice)
February 1, 2005... Q: What will happen to the lease on my retail property if I decide to sell my franchise? Tim Jenson, Hove, East Sussex A: Anton Bates replies: The answer depends on what has already been agreed in the terms and conditions of your...

Marking your territory: franchisors can grant franchisees exclusive, inclusive, sole or simple rights to a territory. Manzoor Ishani explains why it's important to know which is which and how to stay within their boundaries.(territory rights)
February 1, 2005... 'Well, that's just great,' says George. 'You give franchisees a helping hand to get their business up and running, carve out a nice Little territory for them to work in and even promise not to sell another franchise within it, and what do you...

Need to know: from pension plans to the ravages of red tape, Barrie Pennington pinpoints the latest business news and legislation most likely to affect small firms.(business bulletin)
February 1, 2005... PERKS FOR NON-SMOKING BUSINESSES A government ban on smoking in public places could lead to a reduction in insurance premiums for hundreds of businesses in the UK. According to brokers Quoteline Direct, plans to minimise the opportunities...

Marching orders: every business is exposed to security breaches during its day-to-day operation. Richard Watson suggests ways to battle opportunist thieves and clever accounting.(security matters)
February 1, 2005... Life was never easy in the First Battalion of The Queen's Own Mudguards. Time was shared between being worked to death, bored to death and frightened to death. I could understand completely why so many wished to join the trip to collect...

Franchisee of the month: Mike Roney, Driver Hire.(class act)
February 1, 2005... NAME: Mike Roney AGE: 58 OCCUPATION: Franchisee with driver recruitment agency Driver Hire FRANCHISE LOCATION: Northampton and Cambridge HISTORY: Started his career as a civil engineer and bought his first Driver Hire franchise in...

Resale of the month: AlphaGraphics.(Franchise Resales)
February 1, 2005... AlphaGraphics is the gold standard of quick-print franchise stores. FTSE 100 companies and even small to medium-sized enterprises compete in a global marketplace and can no longer afford to entrust their documents to the small, independent...

Why buy a resale?(Franchise Resales)
February 1, 2005... Existing franchises are sold for various reasons--retirement, ill-health, moving abroad, etc. Some franchise companies operate networks comprising hundreds of franchisses and more than one entry in the listings may simply reflect the scale of...

Buying into resale success.(Franchise Resales)
February 1, 2005... LOOKING FOR AN ESTABLISHED FRANCHISE OPPORTUNITY? Most franchises have mature businesses with track records of success that can give you cash flow from day one. Resales are available in every part of the country, and in every type of...

Resale directory.
February 1, 2005... CHILDRENS ART EXHIBITIONS Images Type of franchise INVESTMENT REQUIRED Childrens art exhibitions/ 48,000 [pounds educational fundraising sterling] (includes...

A-Z franchise directory.
February 1, 2005... The following franchise listings are a comprehensive reference guide to help you find the franchise opportunity that's right for you. They are listed alphabetically and cover all business sectors. Information for these entries is provided by...

Titanic decisions: before you go full steam ahead with your chosen franchise, you need to be sure whether you're really ready to set sail with a business of your own.(last word)
February 1, 2005... Being captain of your own ship is very different to being part of the crew. If you're used to the relative luxury of a large organisation with many support departments, then you may not enjoy the solitude and sole responsibility that stems from...