Posted:13-January-2021
Charisnack offers exciting and rewarding franchise
Name: Paul and Barbara Garman
Location: Ipswich, Suffolk
Franchise: ChariSnack
Why did you choose franchising?
As beginners in business, buying a franchise offered us a tried and tested business opportunity with help and back-up when needed.
What did you do before taking up a franchise?
Following our move from our life long jobs in the pharmaceuticals industry in Sussex, we both took part-time work which was great to start with, but became mundane and boring, we were both looking for something more
How did you raise the finance?
We raised the finance from savings. Buying a franchise offered a more exciting and rewarding opportunity for our investment.
What training and support did you receive initially and ongoing?
Prior to field training Paul had a full day induction covering all aspects of the franchise, and the follow on support has been excellent, with any questions or advice we need being answered promptly.
What challenges have you faced?
The new business has been a huge learning experience, from simple things like what to do with all the waste cardboard, to how much the weather plays a part in the day to day running. We can remember parked in a car park with a blizzard full on, no visibility, whether to head for home or continue the day, we continued and things improved; now we have temperatures at 30C and keeping the product cool can be an issue but we have bought some polystyrene boxes and some insulating foil, which are doing the job. Sourcing and placing new boxes is an every day challenge, vital to improving and growing the business, every new box placed is a celebration!
Control the stock levels so not to run out of supplies, but also not getting too much in, what to order, when to order.
Has becoming a franchisee changed your life, if so how?
We are now two busy, busy people, it has given us something to focus on, to pour our energy into, we are enjoying working together; for us it is the right time of our lives for this, it is hard work but so rewarding.
What advice would you give to someone thinking of buying their first franchise?
To make sure they have the time and energy to put into a new business, know that its going to be hard work, but also know that the rewards, and not just financial rewards, to build you own business and see it develop is amazing.
What are your plans for the future?
To keep building and expanding the business.
Would you do it again?
Yes we would. Within a short space time we were selling thousands of snacks every month”.
