Gordon Sandilands
Minster
Edinburgh

Why I chose franchising

I had always wanted to work for myself and, when the brewery where I worked closed, I looked for franchise opportunities in the area where I lived. I didn't want to have to move and uproot my family and I chose franchising because I wanted a business with low risk, a proven formula, training and support.

What I did before taking up a franchise

Head Chemist in a brewery

How I raised the finance

A combination of savings and redundancy money, as well as a bank overdraft.

The training and support I receive from my franchisor

Initially, I spent several days at head office learning the systems and procedures. This was followed by a period when an Area Supervisor worked with me to set everything up and get the business underway. On-going support is available for every conceivable situation - either from Head Office or through the franchise network. Training for any new supervisors or admin staff is also provided by Head Office.

The challenges I have faced

From day one, running your own business and employing such large numbers of people is hard work and you won't survive without resilience and a sense of humour. The biggest challenge is finding and retaining good staff at all levels.

My advice to someone thinking of buying their first franchise

Investigate each of your options very thoroughly. Take advice from banks and speak to as many franchisees as you possibly can. With Minster, we were able to speak to as many franchisees as we liked - I would be very suspicious of any franchise company that didn't give you this freedom.

My plans for the future

Even after ten years, my business is still enjoying substantial growth and, for the foreseeable future I will continue to run the business on a day-to-day basis.