Get on the road to building a family-friendly business
There are 35 million vehicles licensed to use Britain’s roads — the highest number ever — which is good news for automotive sector franchisees.
Mechanic Ian Moyle, 45, worked as an AA patrolman. ‘But the hours meant I was missing out on family time. A franchise in the automotive sector means I can work for myself using my interest in cars and mechanical skills,’ he says.
Ian is now the ChipsAway franchisee for the Taunton area, working with son Josh and Josh’s friend Liam, providing a mobile carbodywork repair service.
Ian advises people considering an automotive franchise: ‘ It takes more than practical skills, though the franchisor provides business training. It’s a competitive sector, so you must be prepared to sell your service and work hard. A passion for cars makes it enjoyable.’
Tim harris, ChipsAway chief executive, says: ‘We like to recruit franchisees with an enthusiasm for cars, and we teach them all the practical skills they need. But they must be highly motivated, tenacious people with a clear determination to succeed.’ The franchise requires an investment of £29,995.
Paul Nunn worked in marketing, but he loved cars. ‘I used to go to car shows and enjoyed cleaning and maintaining my e Class Mercedes, and that is how I came across Autosmart cleaning products,’ says the 26-year- old from Canterbury. In July he became an Autosmart franchisee, supplying Autosmart products from a van.
‘Now I make money out of my passion for cars, and I enjoy being on the road,’ he adds. ‘My marketing background helps a lot, and Autosmart provides ongoing training and support.’ he advises: ‘If you love cars, research what vehicle franchises involve.
‘Spending time with an existing franchisee will show you what the business is really like.’
Sarah Moore, UK recruitment manager for Autosmart, says: ‘Our franchisees don’t need sales experience but must have determination, drive and enthusiasm.’
The only Autosmart franchise areas available now are Bournemouth and hartlepool. Investment levels vary.
Chips Away, 0800 980 5215; Autosmart, 01543 482 926.