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Early retirement gave way to new lease of life with Auditel franchise

Name: Gordon Brearley

Location: Newark

Why I chose franchising

I had already taken the plunge into self-employment as a banking industry consultant but this involved too much time away from home. I had investigated a car franchise but didn’t feel the sector was right for me. However, I was convinced by the franchising model and working with a proven system. This would enable me to ‘quick-start’ a business without having to develop a new concept.

Why I chose Auditel

Auditel stood out. It fulfilled my criteria for a professional opportunity that would allow me to maximise my earnings while working flexible hours from my home base. From a business point of view, the concept of saving costs is simple and attractive. It would be easier to sell than a discretionary purchase such as training. The main deciding factor was the calibre of their network and Head Office team who were friendly, professional and welcoming.

What I did before taking up a franchise

I had 20 years of senior management experience with NatWest/Royal Bank of Scotland.

How I raised the finance

Capital was available from an early retirement payment.

The training and support I receive from my franchisor

I arrived with no clear idea of how I would present the service to prospective clients. I left with the confidence to identify good opportunities and use various approaches for making contacts. I learned to explain what we offer in a valuable, compelling way, differentiating our service from that of competitors and close the sale. My objectives were more than satisfied!

The challenges I have faced

No single challenge stands out. It’s possible to sign clients and it’s possible to make useful savings to create income, so the business system works. I’m not very fond of filing and there is a lot of paper involved in the audit! This is hardly insurmountable and easily offset by the enjoyment I get from building long-term business friendships.

My advice to someone thinking of buying their first franchise

Does the franchisor respond promptly to your enquiry? Are you impressed by their presentation, the quality of the people and the substance of the company? Investigate further to confirm first impressions and obtain sufficient information to allow you to make a commitment.

Progress in the marketplace so far

My colleague and I have recently been appointed as cost managers to the Doncaster Chamber of Commerce membership. We have just secured a water refund of £16,000 for a North Lincolnshire Hospice. We have reduced gas costs for a local cement works by over 40% .We have saved 36% on line rentals for a firm of accountants through alternative technology. For most clients, savings are rarely less than 20% across the board.

My plans for the future

I see myself spending most of my time on client recruitment and management, and joint venturing the analysis with colleagues. By maximising my personal strengths, I believe I’ll have a very good business with many clients and a strong income stream. On a personal level, I’d like to spend my winters in a sunnier climate; so eventually I intend to work from southern Europe for three months of the year, returning periodically for client meetings.

03-11-09

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Featured Franchises

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Early retirement gave way to new lease of life with Auditel franchise

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