Name: Simon Marks
Location: Northern Ireland
Franchise: WPA Healthcare Practice
Date launched the franchise: December 2012

Tell us a bit about yourself and what you were doing prior to buying your WPA franchise business?

I had been involved in the banking sector all my working life and spent 27 years in this industry since the age of 18. Following cutbacks I started to look at future business opportunities.

Why did you go down the franchise route? And why did you choose your WPA franchise?

"I liked the appeal of running my own business after years as an employee, particularly escaping from the constraints of micro management that was evident in the banking sector post downturn."

I was recommended to look at WPA by a former colleague who had bought another WPA Franchise and was running this successfully.

How did you raise the finance?

Mainly through redundancy payment after 27 years with the bank.

What training and support did you receive initially and ongoing?

This is one of the major factors in choosing WPA as I felt that they were very pro-active throughout my decision making process and appeared to provide regular and on-going training to franchisees.

The invite to an open day in Taunton and invites to regional workshops prior to making my final decision were instrumental in understanding what WPA had to offer.

The Initial Training Course was extremely well presented and initial 2 year mentor period with an experienced franchisee provided the support that I needed in my early stages.

The ongoing training through regional workshops/regional meetings and conferences remains first class.

What is a typical day for you as a WPA franchisee?

Normally sitting at my desk for 7.30am to handle administration/plan for appointments that day. Diary planning is essential as I cover a wide area so if I am travelling for an appointment I will aim to have 3-4 other customer visits in the area to ensure the journey is worthwhile.

I have an early start on a Tuesday with a network group which either entails a 4.00am alarm call or more often travelling the night before.

I aim to have 3 full days’ of appointments per week with 2 days to manage admin. Occasionally I have evening appointments if this is only time that suits the customer.

What challenges have you faced?

The challenge of running your own business and the practicalities involved. I spent so much time on the business model of WPA, however I didn’t fully understand what was involved in the setting up and running your own business on a day to day basis.

Has becoming a franchisee changed your life, if so how?

"On leaving the bank after 27 years I was looking for 2 basics; a less stressful occupation and to maintain a good quality of life. I find it very refreshing to be able to structure my own day without having to seek approval. It can mean early starts and late nights but at least I am doing it for myself."

What is the most invaluable piece of advice you could give someone looking to buy their first franchise?

Speak to other franchisees within the business to understand potential pitfalls as well as strengths. Understand the support mechanism from the Franchisor with regard to initial and on-going training, especially support in first 1-2 years of business.

In your opinion, what makes a successful franchisee?

Someone who has experience in dealing with customers and has a desire/drive to grow their business. They will need individual discipline, particularly if coming out of an office based business to working by themselves.

What are your plans for the future?

To continue to grow my business by a minimum of 10% year on year and build a strong base of business introducers.

To make my business attractive to future buyers.

Would you do it again?

Yes.