Bags of sweet ideas.(Cottage Industries)

CHOCOLATE, MUSIC, SWEETS and greetings cards--as a supplier of these everyday products it is likely we've all had a taste of what Cottage Industries has to offer. But, as with many business-to-business companies, the product doesn't always get the consumer recognition it deserves. New owners Richard Darbishire and Paul Turner are about to undertake a brand revamp that should ensure this is one business-to-business franchise that doesn't go unnoticed.

The Yorkshire-based company was set up in 1989 by Bryan Cheetham and is a long-term, fully accredited member of the BFA. When Bryan and his wife Sue decided to retire from the business, Richard and Paul found their perfect opportunity. Richard, the company's new chairman, says of the acquisition: 'We were looking for a well-run family business with lots of growth potential --from this point of view Cottage Industries was an ideal target.' In keeping with the family theme, Bryan's son Andrew is going to stay with the company to support the new management team throughout the process of filling vacant territories and developing the product further.

Cottage Industries is divided into three main franchise networks, which operate throughout the UK and Ireland. Appletree Cottage franchisees distribute a variety of greeting cards; Candy Cottage is the confectionery arm; and Top Beat supplies retailers with music on CD and cassette. Stock is supplied on a sale or return basis--an attractive proposition for the retailer and a formula that has enjoyed considerable success for the company.

Previously employed by Richmond Ice Cream Ltd, the new management team intends to utilise its experience and skills to implement an ambitious expansion programme throughout the franchise network. Richard has a background in purchasing and has had extensive experience in packaging print and design. Paul's know-how is centred on logistics--he has a wealth of experience in distributing fast-moving consumer goods to the retail trade.

The management team plans to build on the present success of Cottage Industries and very soon it will be launching a comprehensive range of DVD titles in addition to the CDs and cassettes Top Beat already has on offer. The DVDs will also be on a sale or return basis and the company believes that this unique proposition will quickly establish a healthy market share in one of the fastest growing consumer goods markets.

Cottage Industries will also be undertaking a complete redesign of the current range of greetings cards with a view to broadening their appeal. Joint managing ...