Get to know a business — then start to clean up

FRANCHISE exhibitions are great to get free advice and learn about a variety of businesses. But prepare beforehand to get the most out of the event.

Rob Radford (pictured) visited a franchise exhibition before becoming a franchisee of Oven Wizards, which provides a mobile oven cleaning service.

The 39-year-old had decided he wanted a franchise with no premises or large investment and with flexible hours so he could help look after his four-year-old daughter, Evie.

‘I’d already researched oven cleaning franchises, and when I met the Oven Wizards franchise, we got on well,’ says Rob, from Sandy, Bedfordshire.

He advises: ‘At exhibitions you meet those people behind the franchise. I also went to presentations on financing and brand building.’ Oven Wizards will be at this year’s National Franchise Exhibition looking for its 60th Wizard. The investment is £12,500.

Suzie McCafferty, managing director of franchise consultancy Platinum Wave, says: ‘Consider the kind of franchise you want and how much you have to invest. Take a list of questions for franchisors. Never sign up at a show — give yourself thinking time.’

Purity Kingo, director at healthcare recruitment franchise Match Options, says: ‘At franchise exhibitions we meet prospective franchisees so both sides can see if they share a working culture which is important for building a relationship.’

Match Options investment starts at £25,000.

Plan your time carefully. Pam Gordon, franchise consultant at The Franchising Centre, which recruits franchisees for Match Options, advises: ‘Use the whole day and visit seminars and workshops.

‘Franchisors will be assessing you, too, so present yourself so you will create a good first impression.’

ovEn Wizards, 01367 850162; Match options, 07900 368439; Platinum Wave, 0131 664 1268. The national franchise Exhibition, october 13 and 14 (franchiseinfo.co.uk); Scottish Business Exhibition, november 1 and 2 (thescottishbusinessexhibition.com)