Make a clean start and take back control of your destiny
WHEN Julie Dunne was made redundant for the second time in her sales management career, she decided to start working for herself instead.
‘It’s disheartening to be made redundant twice in a short time. I was shocked, but I refused to let it destroy my confidence. I decided to take control of my own destiny,’ says Julie, 51.
She had already considered investing in a Bright & Beautiful franchise, which involves delivering eco-friendly domestic cleaning services, laundry, and ironing.
‘I felt I had the skills to run my own business, but that starting up with a franchise was safer than going it alone, so in 2015 I became the Bright & Beautiful franchisee in Enfield, North London,’ says Julie.
‘The business has been growing ever since and Julie employs a team of 14 cleaners, and travels around selling her service to clients.
‘Buying a franchise gave me the benefit of five years’ experience from the franchisor, plus their support, help and advice. If I had started this business alone I would not be in business now.’
Julie advises other people faced with redundancy: ‘Look at all your options, including starting in business with a franchise. At the time redundancy felt like the worst thing in the world. It forces you to make a change, but that can turn out to be a good thing.’
Sue Moore, brand president of Bright & Beautiful, part of the Dwyer Group, says: ‘Someone who has been made redundant can make the perfect franchise candidate for the Dwyer Group family of brands as they generally have sufficient financial capital to invest, motivation and a hunger to succeed. Redundancy can make people more determined to forge their own paths as they have a drive that allows them to take control of their own future, using franchising as a vehicle.’
The Bright & Beautiful investment level varies dependent on working capital needs, which is generally £25,000+.
Bright & Beautiful 0161 240 3704.