Are you driven to help others?
THE number of franchises launched each year in the UK is soaring.
Christian Yandell, event director at The Franchise Show, says: ‘A section of the event is dedicated to about 20 franchises launched in the past year. Roughly half originated abroad, the others are home-grown.’
Driving Miss Daisy, a New Zealand franchise which offers companionship and transport to people who find it hard to get out, has been over here for 12 months.
It will be one of many franchises taking part in The Franchise Show, held at Excel London today and tomorrow.
Jocelyn Close, 44, who with business partner Tori Lumb owns the franchise for Farnham in Surrey, says: ‘We offer assistance to the elderly, children and people with special needs, for anything from medical appointments to trips to the hairdresser or outings.
‘For instance, we take customers to the local Alzheimer’s Society day centre and home again.’
At the show, Jocelyn and Tori will talk about the rewards of running a community-focused business. As well as seminars and the chance to meet franchisees, the event showcases over 150 busi- nesses. Christian says: ‘ Franchise specialists from banks, accountancy and legal firms will be on hand, so visitors can get advice before speaking to individual franchises.’
Coldwell Banker, a U.S.based estate agency also operates the UK.
Stuart White, director, Coldwell Banker UK, says: ‘We aim to have 100 UK-based franchisees in prime city locations in five years.
‘Ideally we are looking for candidates already in the estate agency sector wanting to become their own boss. We will also consider people from other backgrounds who have exceptional business and people skills.’
Franchise fee is £25,000 plus working capital.