Posted:13-January-2021
Exclusive Interview: "If you want to be successful you will need the drive to succeed!"
Name: Mark Adams
Location: Norwich
Franchise: Barrett & Coe
Tell us a bit about yourself and what you were doing prior to buying a franchise business?
I was looking for a change of career and had always had an interest in photography. This was quite a change for me as I had been working for the last twelve years in London as a Bodyguard. It also meant that I could come back home and live a normal life with my partner instead of living half in London and half in Norwich!
Why did you go down the franchise route? And why did you choose your franchise?
After careful consideration I decided to take the franchise route rather than setting up independently so that I would have a proven business model to follow and the ongoing support of the franchise. I attended the Barrett & Coe portrait and wedding courses over a period of twelve months and decided to investigate the franchise route. On completion of the courses and having had detailed discussions with Andrew Coe and Managing Director, Elaine Sheppard, I was offered the Norwich franchise.
What training and support have you received initially and ongoing?
Initial training from doing the courses was followed up by more in-depth training in running the franchise. This included further practical photography training to build on what I had learnt from the courses, as well as the practical side of running a business such as marketing, administration, the day to day running of a studio, budgeting and sales etc. The quality of service that my customers receive from me; and the images I take for them, differentiates my franchise from the competition. The other valuable factor is the backing of the Head Office and the booking team. We also have bi-monthly meetings which cover sales and practical photography and this is a great way to catch up with other franchisees, swap ideas and keep on learning.
How did you raise the finance?
I raised the finances through Personal savings. It was a big decision, as it’s not enough to just pay for the franchise, you need to be able to support yourself until things get going and you start making money!
What is a typical day for you as a franchisee?
There is not really a typical day, but generally I spend Wednesday to Saturdays doing the shoots and viewings; with Tuesday being kept for administration and marketing, and some evening sessions for the Makeover shoots. I normally start by getting the studio ready for the day, preparing the paperwork for the customers coming in that day, making calls and replying to any emails that have come in. Each appointment last for an hour, with both shoots and viewings, so on a full day I can have 7 or more appointments. Then I need to fit in the editing, paperwork and ordering of images plus other things!
"If you want to be successful in a franchise you need to be someone with the drive to succeed and who is prepared to put in the effort required to make a success of their franchise."
There is a lot more involved than people initially think, and it takes time and a lot of hard work to build and establish the good reputation required. This is not a Monday to Friday 9-5 job! Being a “people person” who can quickly put your customers at ease, so they enjoy the experience, is another benefit.
What challenges have you faced?
My main challenge was getting used to the marketing and sales elements of the business, as this was something I had not done previously in my careers. It’s a very necessary part of the business. I contact Corporate Associations, and I use Facebook. Websites, working with schools and charities, among other things, are great to do, but the best is word of mouth and recommendations by existing customers.
Has becoming a franchisee changed your life, if so how?
Dramatically! The buck stops with me! I love the idea of being my own boss and get a real buzz when receiving positive feedback, winning awards and having the customer interaction.
What is the most invaluable piece of advice you could give someone looking to buy a franchise?
If I was advising someone who was thinking of buying a franchise I would say to think about what is involved, and how it would change your life. If you haven't been self employed before then consider what this means to you. Are you prepared for the changes involved? It would involve no paid holidays, sick pay, pension etc. Talk it over with your family as it will affect them too. Research what is involved, talk to existing franchisees, and look at the competition around. Don't be afraid to ask any questions as you need to be fully aware of what you are entering into before signing the contracts.
"You will only get out of this what you put in but it is an enjoyable career."
Would you do it again?
Definitely! My aim is to continue improving and building my business. I have just moved into a new, more customer friendly studio and I’ve just resigned my contract!
Interested and want to know more about Barrett and Coe Photography?
The Barrett and Coe Photography basic profile outlines aspects of their franchise opportunity
