InXpress Franchise News Feed InXpress appoint Global CPO to drive technology development - 18-November-2021 InXpress are pleased to announce that they recently appointed Jaekob Chenina in the newly created role of Global Chief Product Officer. This new role follows a major investment in the business in November 2020, when Hudson Hill Capital, a private investment firm acquired a majority stake in InXpress. InXpress is an international franchisor of parcel, freight, and delivery logistics services serving SME customers through a software platform and global network of over 400 franchises in 14 countries. The company maintains relationships with tier-one parcel, air, and freight carriers around the world, offering discounted rates to franchisees that form relationships with SME customers through its direct salesforce. The company also offers its SME customers and franchisees a SaaS platform, enabling franchisees to effectively manage customer service and customers to centrally manage their transportation and logistics requirements. Jaekob is based at the US head office in Salt Lake City, and his day-to-day focus includes working closely with InXpress’s customers, the franchise network and ‘market listening’, to enable the business to identify the future industry direction. Jaekob will then develop strategies in conjunction with the in-house IT and development team, who are responsible for bringing new technology to life. Speaking about his appointment, Jaekob said “Nearly everything we consume needs to get from A to B, and InXpress plays a vital role in powering phenomenal “last-mile” experiences. With award winning technology and automation combined with our VIP customer service, InXpress can change the world of transportation and logistics. I am so excited about joining this global business with a diverse and incredible team who really want to make a difference!” Mark Taylor, Global CEO commented “Jaekob has vast experience in strategic product development, including roles leading data and AI driven tech businesses, and his appointment is another sign of the investment in technology being made to ensure that InXpress is at the forefront of the logistics and transportation market. Ultimately, we want to evolve to meet the future needs of SME businesses before they even they know what they are, and therefore support their growth and the growth of our franchise network.” InXpress Gives Back delivers a feeling of joy for children - 29-October-2021 If you ever leave something behind after taking a trip, more often than not you can easily have it sent back to you. However for one father, Stephen, faced with the pandemic, travel restrictions, and unhelpful customer services obstructing the return of a specially adapted wheelchair, he felt like he was running out of options. Fortunately, one of his friends was able to recommend a solution. Having used InXpress for four years, Chris suggested Stephen should contact Alex Petrides, at InXpress Birmingham South. It wasn’t long before Alex received a call which would inspire him. “Stephen’s daughter, Chloe, is severely disabled and in a wheelchair,” Alex says. “He’d had a specially adapted race chair made so she could race with him. She loved being out in it, feeling alive whenever her dad ran with her in it. They often raced together, raising money for other severely disabled children. Pre-covid, they’d completed a race in Norway, but had inadvertently left the chair behind. Stephen was having problems, as the airline refused to take it unless he accompanyed it back. “Within a week,” Alex continues, “we had the chair back with Stephen and Chloe! He called me, elated, because they didn’t think they ‘d ever see it again!” Alex and Stephen liaised closely with the hotel in Norway to make sure the chair was packaged-up properly ready for its journey home. “There are components which needed to be strapped down, but not too tightly or the chair would be rendered useless. It was crucial the shipment was handled was absolute care, so Chloe can enjoy racing with her dad, again,” Alex says. “However it meant even more to them, because, knowing how alive and free his daughter feels when she’s out with him, Stephen takes other severely children out for runs in it.” It’s such a simple thing most of us take for granted: the freedom to feel the wind in our faces as we go out for a walk or a run. So, when Alex heard how alive these children felt when they’re out in Chloe’s specially adapted chair, he wanted to do more. “I reached out to the InXpress Gives Back Committee about whether we could pay for another chair. I wanted to see if we could enable more children to experience this simple pleasure for themselves.” InXpress Gives Back didn’t hesitate and a new chair is currently being built in Canada. For Alex, this was a proud moment, and he can’t wait until they can present the new chair to Stephen. “I have two young girls so Stephen’s story really tugged on my heart, causing me think about what I would do in his situation. It feels like a small thing, but to be able to provide them with a new race chair, knowing it will make a difference to children who need it most… there are no words.” Putting smiles on children's faces - 19-October-2021 When sending important packages out to orphanages and people in need around the world, you want to know they’ll arrive safely – even if it’s going to a small village in the heart of Zambia. Which is why when one of their customers, Amarjit Pall, wanted to send boxes of children’s books to the KASISI children’s home, he didn’t hesitate in entrusting the precious cargo to InXpress Birmingham South. As Neil Hatt, owner of InXpress Birmingham South, and his Senior Logistics Consultant, Alex Petrides explain, sending any kind of shipment to a remote village in Zambia, doesn’t come without challenges! “We used to support a black rhino conservation charity; sending clothes to the team working on site,” Alex explains. “So, we were well aware of the difficulties around sending charity boxes to Africa. I wanted to make sure the shipment process went as smoothly as I could make it, which meant dealing with a fair bit of red tape.” The KASISI children’s home was first established in 1926, and has become one of Zambia’s largest orphanages, with 230 babies and children living in the home, including 60 children with HIV/AIDS. As a visionary school, the Sisters and Housemothers who run it aim to do everything they can to ensure the children are self-supporting once they leave, in adulthood. They achieve this through an educational programme, which is designed to give the children a foundation for employment. All the children donate finances back into the school once they have left, so they can give back, and support their KASISI family. So, with multiple boxes of books being collected, Alex started working in the background to prepare the shipment for travel. “One of the first problems we encountered, was the address. KASISI is basically located on a remote plot of land. It was important we didn’t just send it to a PO Box, because there isn’t always a guarantee the books would reach their final destination. I needed to find a way for them to be delivered right where they were needed, and signed-for upon delivery, so the children would definitely receive their gifts. I also wanted to make sure everything was listed properly, to avoid any additional charges being incurred by the orphanage.” Within the charitable donations, were educational books, pencils, and other stationary items for the children to use in the school part of the home. “I worked closely with Amajit to reduce any potential issues, then set up tracking, and alerted TNT – with whom the charity shipment was being sent – so they were aware it was a charity shipment. From the moment it was collected until the moment it was delivered, I closely monitored its journey. At around 7pm one evening, we received an email with photos of the children with their books. It was a special moment! And a relief to know the items were now in the right hands.” As parents themselves, Neil and Alex were pleased to play a small role to making a difference in the lives of other children, hundreds of miles away. “To have facilitated this shipment became hugely important for both of us,” Neil says. “Seeing the photos, and the smiles on the kids’ faces, made you realise how valuable this particular shipment was: A picture is worth a thousand miles of red tape.” InXpress demonstrates their commitment to ethical franchising - 01-October-2021 InXpress UK are proud to announce UK Country Manager, Jon White, was awarded his Qualified Franchise Professional in September – he is the third person at the InXpress Head Office to have achieved this. Receiving his QFP award, comes after an intensive 12 month period of attending workshops organised by the UK’s Official Franchising Association, the bfa, and an interview by the bfa’s QFP Panel of Experts. “The QFP is an important course to undertake, and I found it has given me an even better understanding of our franchisees and the InXpress franchise model,” Jon says. “In spite of the challenges of Covid during most of the course, I found the workshops were well run, with excellent speakers who really are experts in their field. The workshops also provided me with an important opportunity to network with other franchisors, sharing best practice and ideas with them.” Throughout the QFP journey, Jon received expert guidance on topics like, How to Understand Franchisees’ Financial Performance, How to Market Your Franchise and Recruit for Network Growth and How to Monitor Franchisee Performance. “At InXpress we have a commitment to our franchisees to live and work by ethical franchising standards. Receiving my QFP qualification is another step of an ongoing journey,” Jon continues, “one which I’m committed to continuing, to make sure my team and I can deliver the best level of support to our franchisee network, going forward.” Jon will receive his certificate from the bfa, at their annual conference and awards event, in November. The hours he has invested into this qualification, shows his dedication to ethical franchising. Our franchise, our women, our future - Connect | Coach | Empower - 20-September-2021 When you invest in a franchise – especially as a woman – you want to be sure you’re making the right decision for you and your future. When a vision is born, a huge amount of work goes into making it a reality. So, how do you know a brand like InXpress will have your back? Because, here at InXpress, we believe behind every successful woman is a tribe of successful women who have her back. Which is why we have just enjoyed our very first InXpress International Women’s Conference. As a global brand, operating in 14 countries, our network is filled with successful female leaders, thriving in their businesses, or their role. To be able to take a day to network with other InXpress women from around the world – whether at Head Office, a franchise owner, or working in one of our 430 franchised businesses, was invaluable. And over 170 women from across the network agreed; signing-up for the opportunity to self-reflect in a safe space, and feel empowered by solid advice from women who are also thriving. Guest speakers included: Jan Uhrich - a Fortune 50 company Senior Executive who serves on the Global InXpress Board; Lucille McCart - the APAC Communications Director at Bumble, the dating and networking app; Anna Hemmings MBE - Olympian and world champion; And our keynote speaker from the Katie Piper Foundation, Lin Woolmington - who’d survived two episodes of severe clinical depression which led to life-changing consequences. Here’s a brief taste, of what each speaker had to say Jan Uhrich Developing your leadership style As women in a male-dominated arena, it’s important you have a strong female network around you. Then, play to your strengths, and hire to your weaknesses! Knowing your team’s strengths and weaknesses enables you to build a high performing team. Lucille McCart Level your playing field Women tend to hold back more. We want to be sure of the outcome, before we make a move. So, by creating a culture of empowerment, we enable women to make the first move, and encourage them to share their dreams and future aspirations. Anna Hemmings MBE The resilient leader’s toolkit Resilience comes from greater self-awareness. Pause to explore how you’re framing a situation. Then reframe it, if necessary. Rather than seeing challenge as overwhelming, break it down so you can see the light of opportunity. Don’t allow fear, anxiety, or the problem itself trip you up. Lin Woolmington Triumph over tragedy I have the strength to face the past with honesty. I have the wisdom to live in the present with appreciation. I have the courage to face the future no matter what. How lucky am I, I have my own philosophy! The afternoon (for the UK, though some attendees were watching in the middle of the night!) also included a chance to applaud some of the women in the global network, at our first ever, InXpress GREAT Awards. The silver and gold winners, were nominated by their peers within the network, which led to an unexpected need to create an additional category, based on the number of nominations our final winner had received. CATEGORY GOLD WINNER Gives Back Zee Shan (UK) Results Driven Wendy Hand (Aus) Energetic Fun Samantha Webb (UK) All-in Christina Runolfson Wardrop (USA) Targeted Improvement Anita S (India) Overall global GREAT winner Zoe Kirby (UK) The InXpress women’s conference was a clear demonstration of how the empowered woman is powerful beyond measure. This goes for every single women working and doing her thing right across the InXpress global network: we wouldn’t be where we are today without you, so we applaud all of you! InXpress shortlisted for the bfa's Franchisor of the Year award - 20-September-2021 Being a finalist for any bfa award, is a proud achievement for any franchise. So, for InXpress to be hand-selected again, for the third year in a row as a potential Franchisor of the Year, is a powerful demonstration of their dedication and commitment to both franchising in general, and to our franchisees, specifically. “The bfa awards are the highlight of our year,” explains Jon White, InXpress UK Country Manager. “We consider it a source of encouragement each time we are shortlisted, because it shows the bfa judges have seen for themselves how hard our franchisees have worked throughout the year. Even more so, after the challenges we’ve faced as a global franchise operating within the shipping industry, over the last 18 months. Our success is their success.” Not only did InXpress franchisees have to navigate through the pandemic, but the global network of 430 franchisees, were also impacted by the changes resulting from Brexit. “We worked hard to ensure our franchisees were ready for Brexit, and I believe this is what helped us to prepare for the sudden changes caused by Covid-19,” Jon continues. “In fact, our franchisees often went above and beyond the call of duty – for their customers, and for each other. So, being shortlisted for the bfa Franchisor of the Year is something each of our 106 UK franchisees can feel proud to have contributed towards.” And this is evident in the fact one of the franchisee finalists is also part InXpress, in the Resilient Riser category! Neil Campbell, owner of InXpress Belfast has taken his place in the shortlist of franchisee who demonstrated ‘unwavering resilience, strength and support of his staff, customers and other franchisees, throughout the pandemic’. Pip Wilkins, CEO of the bfa, was quoted as saying, “For another year, the awards reflect the strength of franchising and I wish all those shortlisted the best of luck. Just to get to this stage is a huge achievement and something to be truly proud of.” Whilst HSBC’s UK Head of Franchising, Andrew Brattesani, agrees, “We have been delighted to see many new faces entering and being shortlisted for this year’s awards; welcoming smaller, emerging franchise brands who emphasise on achieving a positive work-life balance, to huge multi-unit franchise empires.” On November 30th we’ll be keeping everything crossed until we find out if we’ve won the coveted title of bfa Franchisor of the Year; or Neil has beaten the competition for Resilient Riser, until then – well done to all this year’s finalists! InXpress Gives Back funding lifesaving defibrillators - 19-July-2021 InXpress’ Gives Back committee are on a drive to have a positive impact around them. So when one of their franchisees’ staff shared her story, and the desire to fundraise so more defibrillators could be installed in local communities in the UK, there was no hesitation: One of their own had a personal stake in this. When she was just 23, Lisa Savage Customer Service Representative, from InXpress North Surrey was rushed into hospital having suffered a sudden cardiac arrest. It was subsequently discovered that she had a genetic heart condition, along with her siblings and dad – and her two young children. “My eldest daughter was three, at the time, and my youngest was just seven months old. It was a complete shock to receive the news, and trying to cope with the impact on them, as well as on my own future, was difficult. Thankfully, I was put in touch with SADS UK, who were able to offer me a lot of support. They connected me with other families, who were in a similar situation, but further along in their journey; helped to arrange a defibrillator in the house for my daughters, along with training my husband and I on how to use it and do CPR.” When the InXpress Gives Back committee asked if anyone knew of any causes the franchise network could support, Lisa suggested supporting SADS by providing an accessible defibrillator. We know from other stories how much of a difference they make to people’s lives. “Each year between 80,000 & 120,000 people suffer a cardiac arrest in a public place, in the UK,” explains Andrea Patient, AED Project Manager, SADS UK. “A defibrillator is an essential resource for saving lives. The earlier the heart is restarted, the better the outcome for the patient. We aim to see Community Public Access Defibrillators being placed everywhere people tend to group together. They’re easy to use, and guide the user through each step clearly. So, the one which InXpress is funding is helping us to achieve our goal.” This is something Lisa, and her family are all too aware of, and so the addition of these defibrillators, is important for the fight for survival of others like her. “If we have community defibrillators in close proximity to places like schools, universities, leisure centres and pubs, as well as near medical centres and hospitals, it increases the chance of survival tenfold. And the machine won’t work if it doesn’t need to, so people don’t need to be afraid to use them. In fact, as someone who suffered a cardiac arrest, I would rather someone try to save my life, than they hold back out of fear of doing the wrong thing.” Anne Jolly MBE, Founder of SADS UK, says, “The cardiac charity SADS UK is pleased that InXpress understands the importance of defibrillators in saving lives. If a cardiac arrest emergency occurs, using CPR provides a 5% chance of survival. But with the early use of the defibrillator as well, the chance of survival is increased to over 50%; this is why SADS UK is so passionate about this lifesaving equipment being made widely available.” InXpress have already funded one defibrillator where Lisa works, but seeing the value they add to the community, InXpress Gives Back are keen to fund a few more around the UK. For Lisa, having the support of not just the franchise she works for, but the whole InXpress family, means so much. “Knowing InXpress have funded another defibrillator definitely gives me peace of mind. Knowing there is now one within the Business Park where I work, in easy access of both a hotel and a school, as well as the offices, is really important to me – and the thousands of adults and children living with this condition. Whether they know it yet, or not.” InXpress Gives Back is set to save lives through the next generation - 19-May-2021 A few weeks ago, Henry, and his dad decided to go for a run. They soon found their rhythm and were enjoying their run together. However, disaster unexpectedly struck when Henry’s dad suddenly collapsed beside his 12 year old son. For many parents – or, even for any adult – this is one of the biggest fears: To collapse, miles from anywhere, in front of your child. However, Henry knew what to do. Before the lockdown, he’d attended a free teaching session held in his school, by charity, Little LifeSavers, which equipped him to know what to do, and set-off a chain of events, which ultimately saved his dad’s life. When Matt Strutt, owner of InXpress Gatwick, heard about the work of the Little LifeSavers charity, and the incredible vision they have, something resonated within him. “I was at my local BNI event, and was transfixed as Dr Barbara Stanley ran through her charity presentation. I wanted to do so much more than just listen to her story.” For the dad of four, hearing about how the charity equips and empowers children to saves lives, really struck a chord. “Many years ago, I was a lifeguard,” Matt explains, “so I know the importance of basic life-saving skills. The more I heard more about Little LifeSavers, the more convinced I became of what could be achieved if more children were taught basic life-saving skills like how to help someone who is choking, putting someone into the recovery position, or calling 999. I’m a firm believer in using my business to give back, which is also one of InXpress’ core values, and had been waiting for the right opportunity since opening my franchise, last September. As Dr. Stanley spoke, I knew this was the right charity for me to support.” Little LifeSaver volunteers go into schools and show children, from the age of 9, the basics of saving lives. “I’m incredibly passionate about sharing simple knowledge,” explains Dr. Barbara Stanley. “It is often, children who are alone with an adult when something happens. During the 2016 Junior Doctor strike, the opportunity arose for some of my colleagues and I show some Basic Life Support Skills to the public. During one of these sessions, the son of my daughter’s swimming instructor attended and learnt how to do CPR. “When he went back into school, he told his teachers about how valuable he’d found the session. The school contacted me, as a local doctor, to ask if I could do something similar with their year sixes. We all realised how beneficial this would be – and how empowering it was for the children who, rather than helplessly watching their parent choke or collapse, would be equipped to take immediate and useful action. Since then, we’ve taught over 8000 children basic life-saving skills.” Henry, was one of those 8000 children. When his dad collapsed from a confirmed cardiac arrest, he immediately followed the training he’d received, and started chest compressions – he knew every minute counted. When another jogger approached, Henry flagged him down, asked him to do the chest compressions, then ran to get the defibrillator he knew was at the rugby club they’d passed, which the paramedics would be able to make use of, when they arrived. “We have another story of a child who had done a Little LifeSaver’s course and immediately sprung into action when they saw someone in difficulty,” Dr Stanley says. “So, to know we are saving lives through these incredibly selfless children, is both powerful and humbling. We have a vision to reach every school in the UK with Little LifeSavers, so more lives can be saved in the long run.” As part of the InXpress network, Matt spoke to Glenn Willis who is head of the InXpress Gives Back Charity Committee for InXpress Gives Back. “I really wanted to inform the network about the incredible work of Little Life Savers, and to see is anyone wanted to volunteer their time, or could raise awareness about it, in their children’s schools. But, Glenn went further than I had expected. He arranged for a donation to be made, out of the Gives Back charity support fund.” InXpress Gives Back is the InXpress network’s means of making a difference through charitable causes. Over the years, we’ve helped to educate children, supported the InXpress franchise family who have been rocked by serious illness, and provided a wheelchair for a young man to enjoy life to the max. Through Matt’s involvement, we can also make a difference by helping the next generation feel both equipped and empowered to save lives. So, whether you are someone who wants to use your time, or you have connections into schools, you can make a difference – even if you’re not part of InXpress – just visit www.littlelifesavers.org for more information. Imagine what could be achieved in your local community, if there were more Henrys. From Nuneaton to Accra, there's no stopping InXpress - 12-May-2021 Stepping out to make a difference to people’s lives often involves stepping out of your comfort zone. Other times, it means making things happen, to facilitate those who have gone the extra mile. Which is how InXpress Coventry became involved in an appeal to support children in Ghana. Nuneaton Borough FC, found themselves tagged in the social media post of superfan, Sam Timms. Sam was – at the time – in Ghana, determined to make a difference in Frankadua, a Ghanaian town three hours outside Accra, and was involved in projects to tackle poverty such as building a water station for the town, and a new school, as well as providing malaria kits, mosquito nets and food. Touched by the struggles he saw in the day-to-day, Sam implored friends and associates back home in Nuneaton for any donations to help make a difference to the children, and families he was working with. Which is how he attracted the attention of his favourite football club. Nuneaton Borough FC didn’t hold back from responding to the appeal. Chairman, Jason Dean, worked with Jimmy Ginnelly to source some old kits and football boots the team no longer uses. Being well-connected within the Nuneaton business community, and InXpress Coventry owners, David and Liz Murray, Jason knew how he could quickly arrange for the shipment to be sent, before Sam returned to the UK. As David explains, “When Jason emailed us asking for help to ship the kits over to Africa, we knew we could help. Our Customer Services Coordinator, Charlotte, did an exceptional job in arranging all the paperwork for the shipment, so it could be sent safely, securely and quickly, to Ghana. Within just seven days, the boxes had left Nuneaton Borough FC, and arrived in Accra, where Sam collected them from the DHL Station, and took them back to the village he was working with – a three hour drive through the dusty African countryside.” Jason said "We were sitting on a lot of unused Boro kit at the club and we received quite a few donations from the junior managers and sponsors, in response to the appeal. This meant we were able to send two boxes of kit over straight away, and we have more to send over, as soon as we can work out how – now Sam is back. I am hugely thankful to David Murray and Charlotte, at InXpress Coventry. When they heard our story, they had no hesitation in helping us send the boxes out to Sam, in double quick time." With more kits to be shipped over, and a second company asking for David’s help to send similar items out to Uganda, InXpress Coventry are proud to facilitate customers making a difference around the world. InXpress are crowned Global Franchise Champions - 30-April-2021 At the Global Franchise Awards 2021, InXpress showed they’re in a class of their own when they won not just the White Collar Franchise category, but the top award for Global Franchise Champion. As a franchise which operates in all four corners of the world, InXpress pride themselves on leading the way for their franchise partners to run a successful business. So, as the Global Franchise Award winners are announced today, we’re really pleased to say our words and our actions are in alignment! Not only have we won the Global Franchise White Collar franchise category, we have also been crowned Global Franchise Champion 2021! “Being up against so many exceptional franchise brands we are both proud, and humbled, to have won the Global Franchise Champion award, as well as White Collar Franchise,” says Melanie Spencer, Global Head of Marketing for InXpress. The Global Franchise Awards involves brands from around the world, vying for international recognition. They are judged by a panel of Franchise Associations from around the world, including Pip Wilkins, CEO of the British Franchise Association, and Robert Cresati, Chair and CEO of the International Franchise Association in America. Speaking about the judging process, James Fell, editor of Global Franchise Magazine explains, “The Global Franchise Awards 2021 was the first year that this initiative had to take into consideration the effects of COVID-19 on the global business community. Reading through applications, it was astonishing to see the support, ingenuity and innovation franchisors provided to their franchise networks over the last year.” Talking about this year’s wins, Mark Taylor, Global CEO says, “The combined effort of our 380+ franchisees to make sure InXpress shone during a challenging year, in support of customers needing to quickly pivot online or sell direct to consumers for the first time, shows how unity within a brand can be a powerful example. These awards have been achieved by everyone within the InXpress Global network. It was a real team effort, and I am proud to have led InXpress, through the challenges of 2020.” In for a penny? - 02-February-2021 Every November, InXpress UK runs an annual fundraiser and donates 1p for every shipment booked through them, to charity. Over the last few years, we’ve seen increasing numbers of franchisees either matching, or increasing their donation, with around 15% of offices this year, pledging well-above the 1p per shipment. As a result, the network almost doubled last year’s amount, raising a record-breaking £10,142! Who knew all those pennies could add up so substantially! InXpress are committed to using their business success to find ways to give back. So, to be in a position where they can fundraise in such a simple, but effective way, means as a network, InXpress are able to really make a difference to causes which are close to their hearts. “The way InXpress Gives Back works,” explains Jon White, UK Country Manager, “is through the Gives Back committee. Any of our franchisees can put forward a person, or a cause, which we can support together. The Charity committee allocate funds wherever they’re needed. Last year, we also launched our High Five Forever campaign, so the money raised through both these initiatives, allow us to make a real difference in our communities.” This is evident, when you hear the stories of people who have been or are being supported by InXpress. People like teenage carer Jessica, who was nominated by InXpress Blackpool. Jessica left school early, and has since lost touch with many of her friends, because she wanted to support her mum and help care for her five year old twin brothers full time. The boys have severe autism – as well as other respiratory health conditions. Although the family does have a support worker, Jessica has lost her confidence, having put her life on hold. When the InXpress Gives Back committee heard about Jessica, and her desire to gain qualifications for a future carer in acting, immediately agreed to cover the cost of her lessons, and UCAS-recognised exams. This will not only give Jessica weekly focus and time for herself and her future, but will also help to build her confidence. She won’t be away from her brothers, and mum for long, as the lessons are run weekly, in a college close to where they live. This will give her peace of mind, about doing something for herself. “Hearing stories like Jessica’s brings to life the InXpress Gives Back ethos,” explains Jon, “to be a franchise which is committed to giving back. Our franchisees are growing businesses which puts them in a position to help others less fortunate. It is the heartbeat of what we’re about, and the heartbeat of how InXpress franchisees want to run their businesses.” Being part of a franchise family brings support when times are rough - 08-December-2020 When one of their network was diagnosed with breast cancer earlier in the year, the InXpress network rallied round to support her. This included sponsoring her son, when he did a charity bike ride. Together, they smashed the target for Cancer Research UK, and local charities. There are certain words none of us want to hear – especially from the mouth of a consultant when it comes to our health. As if 2020 hasn’t been challenging enough, there are people you may know, who embarked on a journey they weren’t expecting. People like Debbie Simpkins, owner of InXpress Liverpool, who was diagnosed with breast cancer earlier this year. Being part of the InXpress family of franchise owners, has enabled Debbie to feel the support of those around her, and messages of encouragement on her lowest days. As Debbie explains, “I have had so much love and support over the last few weeks, lots of lovely flowers/gifts/meals being dropped at the door. I feel truly very loved and blessed. I’m aware there are others who have much worse things going on, but without the same kind of support from the network I’ve had.” So, when Debbie’s son, Ed, embarked on a fundraiser to cycle 300 miles in September, to raise money for cancer research, the network, “Ed is doing this bike ride for me to raise funds for cancer research. The email invitation for him to participate in the fundraiser actually came through to him on the day I was diagnosed. After talking about it, we both agreed it felt like it was the right thing to do, at the right time.” Debbie emailed the network, sharing with them her news, and what Ed was planning to do. He would be raising money for Cancer Research UK, by cycling 300 miles – about 10 miles a day – throughout September. To put it into perspective,” Ed says on his fundraising page, “the longest stage/day of the Tour de France is around 123 miles; so not even half of what I am attempting.” Ed initially set a target of £300, which he quickly needed to increase, “Literally I had a target of £300, which was hit within an hour of posting about it on social media. I upped the target to £1,500, which was hit before I’d even sat on the bike... £3k before the end of the September, became our new and ambitious target – £100 per mile.” Debbie has now had surgery, and is almost through the subsequent chemotherapy, before starting a round of radiotherapy. She says she’s definitely felt buoyed by the level of support she’s received from her InXpress family. “Since I was first diagnosed with cancer back in July and we shared the news with family, friends, and colleagues I have truly never felt so loved and supported by so many. I realise I’m really lucky to have a fantastic network of people around me.” And how did Ed’s fundraiser go? With the backing of Debbie’s InXpress family, Ed’s employer – Edrington-Beam Suntory UK – and one of the company shareholders, plus family and friends, Ed raised a total of £15,135.00! “I’ve been blown away by the response of everyone, and I’m still receiving donations! There are being given to local charities, like the Marina Dalglish Charity, where I currently attend for my weekly treatments.” InXpress is one of 1000 Companies to Inspire Britain - 17-November-2020 It is estimated there are somewhere between 5 and 6 million small and medium-sized enterprises operating in the UK. According to the London Stock Exchange Group (LSEG), SME’s “account for around 60% of employment and over 50% of turnover in the UK private sector” and are the “backbone of the UK economy”. Which is why the LSEG annually looks for the most inspirational companies in the UK, so together, we can celebrate their growth and champion the impact they are having. The 2020 list of 1000 Companies to Inspire Britain feels even more important, given the current challenge SMEs are facing. As David Schwimmer, CEO of LSEG says, “On behalf of LSEG, I congratulate all of the companies selected for inclusion in the 2020 edition... they have inspired us with their stories of resilience, growth and entrepreneurship.” For InXpress to find itself listed amongst 1000 Companies to Inspire Britain for a second year, is a massive accomplishment. “Given the challenges we have faced, head-on,” explains Jon White, InXpress UK Country Manager, “I am incredibly proud of our network of franchise owners, both here in the UK, and globally. Their commitment to providing customers with the best service, has meant they’ve supported many businesses who had to suddenly pivot, and work hard to meet increased E-Commerce demands.” As a franchise, InXpress offers customers essential express, freight and solutions using world-class carriers they already know and trust. They have become one of the world’s largest franchisors of express parcel delivery and transportation services, with over 380+ locally-owned offices, in 14 countries. This is what customers valued when the pandemic caused them to quickly adapt to what was happening, knowing the calm expertise of InXpress owners gave them the assurances it could be done. “We definitely don’t take being listed as one of 1000 Companies to Inspire Britain for granted,” Jon continues. “We have been inspired by so many of our customers, and how they adapted to the current situation. To be able to support them, and help other SMEs remain open through these challenges, is one of the reasons why our franchisees often go the extra mile. As a UK-wide network, and as regional businesses owners, we truly are in this together.” Hudson Hill Capital Acquires InXpress in Partnership with Senior Management - 10-November-2020 NEW YORK and MANCHESTER, U.K., November 9, 2020 – Hudson Hill Capital (“Hudson Hill” or “HHC”), a private investment firm founded by Eric Rosen, announced today that it acquired a majority stake in InXpress Holdings Ltd, a software-enabled global franchisor of transportation and logistics services, in partnership with the company’s senior management team. The transaction reinforces InXpress’s long-term commitment to provide world-class transportation and logistics solutions to small and medium sized businesses. Based in Manchester, U.K., InXpress is an international franchisor of parcel, freight, and delivery logistics services serving SME customers through a software platform and global network of almost 400 franchises in 14 countries. Established in 1999, the company maintains relationships with tier-one parcel, air, and freight carriers around the world, offering discounted rates to franchisees that form relationships with SME customers through its direct salesforce. The Company also offers its SME customers and franchisees a SaaS platform, enabling franchisees to effectively manage customer service and customers to centrally manage their transportation and logistics requirements. InXpress built its online software platform, Webship+, on over 20-years of insight. Webship+’s easy-to-use software features include bespoke tailoring of best rates within their carrier network, a bulk upload tool to quickly manage multiple orders, and integration with all of the main e-commerce platforms. “We target companies founded by entrepreneurs and run by high quality management teams with whom we can partner to bring the company to the next level of growth,” said Eric Rosen, Managing Partner of Hudson Hill. “InXpress presents a unique platform to continue to build the business globally and offer a wider set of freight solutions. We look forward to working closely and in partnership with existing management shareholders, Mark Taylor, Adam Thompson, Dustin Hansen, and the entire management team.” Mark Taylor, Global CEO of InXpress since 2015, a franchising expert who has spent the last 20 years working with private equity companies from the U.K., U.S., and mainland Europe, said, “Most SME shippers do not have access to a simple, centralized transportation shipping solution like InXpress. Nor do they have access to experts in shipping at a local level, which is part of the service InXpress offers. The InXpress platform offers one-stop shipping solutions that leverage our expertise, dedicated customer service, and entrenched relationships with multiple carriers to provide business-to-business and e-commerce customers choice, scalability, and highly competitive rates to simplify all of their shipping needs. We are excited to work with the experienced Hudson Hill team to enhance our business and consistently improve our service offering to our global customers.” Adam Thompson, CEO InXpress EMEA who helped to start the business, said, “I am extremely proud of the company my father founded, which has seen huge growth over the past 20+ years. We are all very excited to continue the company’s growth trajectory by partnering with the HHC team who recognize our potential and to drive the next phase of InXpress’s growth.” Dustin Hansen, CEO InXpress Americas since 2013 and member of the Board of Directors of the International Franchise Association, added, “The ideal InXpress customer prefers to bring simplicity to their international, domestic, e-commerce, and freight shipping needs. Carriers benefit from access to our highly-fragmented SME customer base and simpler customer service requirements by outsourcing a number of support and back office functions to InXpress.” About InXpress InXpress, a global business-to-business franchise company in the transportation and logistics industry with a network of almost 400 franchisees across 14 different countries, provides SMEs with unrivaled time and cost-saving shipping solutions through consultative services and innovative software. Due to the company’s size and its global connection to more than 50 trusted carrier partners, InXpress franchisees can offer big shipping discounts to small and medium-sized business. With automated shipping preparation and one-on-one account management, InXpress customers are treated with the care and services typically reserved for Fortune 1000 companies. The core services include international small parcel, domestic small parcel and less-than-truckload (“LTL”). InXpress Americas began franchising in 2006. To learn more about the franchise opportunity and the reoccurring revenue potential, click here. InXpress welcomes our 100th franchisee! - 24-September-2020 Throughout our 21 years of franchising, we’ve had goals and aspirations to grow our franchise network, like many franchisors. Although we have over 380 franchisees worldwide, we are exceptionally proud to have welcomed our 100th franchisee in the UK. For a homegrown brand, which started in the back bedroom of a house in Rochdale, this has given us a sense of pride in our franchise. InXpress supports their customers, by finding reliable shipping solutions. Having established strong relationships with trusted courier partners, over the last 21 years, we offer you a fully scalable model, you can grow at your own pace. What’s more, our franchisees, are fully empowered through our fully IT-enabled system, saving both themselves, and their customers hours of admin. Matt Strutt – our 100th franchisee – has almost finished his training, which he started alongside Duncan Bird our 101st franchise. “I can’t believe how thorough the training programme is,” exclaims Matt Strutt, who has just bought InXpress Gatwick. “I thought I already knew everything there was to know about Sales, but the InXpress system is so comprehensive – the InXpress University has really impressed me! I’ve not only received a refresher course, I’ve learned new techniques for my new business, and can’t wait to start!” About why he joined InXpress, Matt was – unfortunately – one of those made redundant during Covid. But he’s turned this set-back into an opportunity! Like many within our network, although he wanted to run his own business, Matt didn’t want to have to forget about his past experiences, to relearn something from scratch. “I have four children. I wanted to make sure they were going to be OK, as well as finding a business I could pick up quickly. My particular strengths are customer service and sales – I love talking to people. InXpress is built on this, which was also a big motivator for me to invest in my own InXpress franchise.” Whilst we understand the pain people feel about having been made redundant, we are also glad to be in a position to offer people the confidence to pick themselves back up again, with one of our franchises. “I read recently about how life is not a journey, it’s a dance. I think too many of us are so focused on our end goals, we forget to enjoy the dance. So although I was made redundant – and it was an incredibly painful time – I’ve since realised it has made my life better. There is no way I would have taken the step out of a well-paid job, otherwise. It would have been too risky, even though I always wanted to run my own business.” InXpress are, collectively proving the benefit of running a franchise, which speaks volumes to those thinking about making an investment in their own business. “Reaching 100+ UK franchisees is huge milestone for all of us in the network, as it demonstrates the strength of the interest in the brand even during a global pandemic. We’re delighted to have Matt and Duncan on board”. Jon White, UK Country Manager.” “Realising I am franchisee 100, did give me a lift, and put a smile on my face! The fact we do have 101 franchisees, demonstrates the value of the InXpress franchise. I have a deep sense of pride about being part of InXpress, but I’m also incredibly jealous of the previous 99 franchisees before me. They have a huge head-start on what is an excellent business opportunity. I wish I’d discovered InXpress sooner!” Learn more about franchise opportunities with InXpress here! InXpress Franchise News Feed Last updated: 18-November-2021
