Posted:13-January-2021
Exclusive Interview: Dream Doors franchise opportunity took me out of retirement!
Name: Chris Mills
Location: Bristol
Franchise: Dream Doors
Franchise came under new management: January 2017
Tell us about yourself - what did you do before this?
My wife Linda and I have worked together for the last 26 years, and for 23 of those years we ran a group of printing franchises in Bristol and Bath. I was the sales director and managing director and Linda took charge of the finances and personnel. In 2013 we made the decision to close the businesses and retire.
Why did you pick a franchise business?
Due to our previous experience of franchising it was something we were very comfortable with. Taking on a Dream Doors franchise was a way of starting a new business with a tried and tested business model which has a proven successful track record. It is also much easier to obtain business finance when you are involved with a franchise.
Why Dream Doors specifically?
We were attracted to Dream Doors as it was a business we could run together again, but with defined roles to suit our skill sets. It also offers a product which fills a need in the marketplace, without needing a large investment in plant, staff or equipment.
How did you raise the finance?
We raised a bank loan for the full amount with half of it secured on our property. With the help of Dream Doors we drew up a very detailed business plan, including a cash flow forecast in a format that the bank was happy with.
What are the benefits of buying a franchise resale?
The major benefit of taking over an existing Dream Doors business is that it already has a showroom that is up and running and already generating leads and inquiries. Also, in our case, this business was running from a shop in Gloucester Road where we started our first venture in 1991 - so maybe it was fate.
What’s a typical day like?
Every day is different, which is great. One day I can be delivering a kitchen and running through what we are going to be doing for the customer. I may be out on a consultation call to a customer to see what we can do to improve their kitchen or doing a completion visit with a delighted client.
Has becoming a franchisee changed your life? What are the benefits of being a Dream Doors franchisee?
Yes it has, as we now enjoy what we are doing, and it means we are in control of our future
What makes a successful franchise?
Having a business model that has a successful track record in a number of different locations and one that has the resources and experienced staff to support new start-up businesses and enable franchisees to follow the plan.
Do you have any advice for other franchisees?
Follow the model, bring in your own ideas and experiences, but most importantly have fun and enjoy what you are doing,
What are your plans for the future?
To carry on providing a great service and product for another eight years and then maybe try retiring again.
Learn more about franchise opportunities with Dream Doors here!
Interested and want to know more about Dream Doors?
The Dream Doors profile outlines all aspects of their franchise opportunity and allows you to contact them for further information or to ask a question.
