Hugh and Alex Pattison-Appleton
Cartridge World Hereford
Background
Husband and wife team Hugh and Alex Pattison-Appleton made some substantial changes in early 2008. Not only did they opt to work together, but they chose to run their own business.
Hugh had previously spent 15 years ‘running schools’ while Alex had been self-employed at various times, so both brought relevant experience to their new venture – a venture they spent some time and effort researching. In reality it was circumstances that led to Hugh and Alex operating a business together – however it was something they had always believed they could do successfully and when the opportunity arose, they had no reservations in pursuing it.
What introduced them to Cartridge World
Hugh and Alex looked into a number of very varied businesses, both service and manufacturing, though Cartridge World was the only franchise system they investigated. They were looking to take over an established business and in February 2008 they bought Cartridge World Hereford because, in their own words, ‘the figures stacked up.’
With increased talk at the time of a looming recession, Cartridge World seemed the most ‘recession-proof’ which was another influencing factor. Hugh and Alex were encouraged by the access to Cartridge World’s R&D and technical support – after all they were going to be first-time business owners and they knew back-up would be welcome. Hugh and Alex were also impressed that the staff had remained with the business for some time - one since the business had first opened 4 ½ years earlier in 2003.
Success to date
Both Hugh and Alex would admit that getting an established business to operate as they wanted took longer than expected, but they had clearly identified the B2B potential for Cartridge World. In the short time since they bought the business, they have watched this side of the business grow steadily.
Despite operating within a franchise system, Cartridge World gives franchisees the flexibility to develop their own business as they see fit. Developments brought in by Hugh and Alex have been welcomed by the staff who are enthusiastic to watch the business grow further under its new owners.
Hugh and Alex are genuinely enjoying working together – though they do admit they talk far too much about the business. It has lifestyle as well as working benefits. It means that they can manage their lives around their children more easily with one of them always at home.
There are other benefits as well; with both partners working in the business they get twice the tax allowance.
Hugh and Alex say ...
“With both consumers and businesses feeling the credit crunch, Cartridge World can now prove it is recession proof. This is an opportunity to begin conversations with people who wouldn’t necessarily have gone looking for a cost-effective alternative – but virtually every customer who comes through our door is delighted at the money they are saving. And delighted customers tell their friends and spread the word.
“There was one main reason why we bought Cartridge World Hereford – the numbers worked. If you’re looking to operate your own business, that has to be the best advertisement possible.”
Cartridge World in the Credit Crunch
Hugh and Alex have found that who would have previously only used the original manufacturer’s replacement cartridges are now, as a result of the credit crunch, far more receptive to refilling and remanufacturing printer cartridges. They honestly believe that the credit crunch is influencing growth for their franchise.
Customers who have become aware of Cartridge World are thrilled with the money they can save. They are also aware that refilled cartridges often last longer, and the quality is equivalent. People who have been burned by cheaper cartridges causing their printer to play up need reassuring that with Cartridge World this is not the case. Once reassured, they are committed to the brand.
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