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Frequently asked questions about our network, license and franchise.
- What is the difference between a franchise and a license?
- What is the total cost if I start from new?
- How different are you to those who just sell leads?
- What do mean by exclusive territories and unique leads?
- What do you mean in using the term "network"?
- Can I begin by having a full Franchise?
- Can I renew my license after four years?
- Why did you introduce the two-tier system?
- How soon will the customers start calling?
- How long does it take to become fully established?
- Have any of your handymen ever failed?
- Do you offer membership without the branding?
- What is the biggest challenge that you face?
The main difference is that a franchise is permanent and resalable whereas a license is not. As a Licensee you get much the same benefits but you do not yet become a "co-owner" of the Brand. At this stage you own the lease but not the freehold, so to speak.
It largely depends on what vehicle and tools you already have. All members are expected to be fully liveried (i.e. looking right) by the end of the first year. This involves the cost of basic uniform
and van livery. Most other costs such as web presence, unique domain, paperwork
templates (letterheads, invoices, compliment slips etc.) are already included in
the joining fee.
There are not many businesses that can be started for such a low outlay.
Naturally there are ongoing costs through the year but these can be covered by
income as it is generated. However it would certainly make life easier and
growth faster if you had a little in reserve without being completely dependent
on turnover.
The bottom line, if you already have a van and tools is that you
should expect to spend around £450-500 on uniform, van livery, business cards
and leaflets - and perhaps have a thousand or two in reserve so that you are not
under excessive pressure from the start.
We offer much more. Please don't confuse us with marketers who sell quote requests to you and several others to bid on (which you seldom win), nor with expensive directories that promise the earth. We're in the same business as you and, with years of experience we know what you need - and how to get it.
Members obtain business in several ways:
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from the web presence we provide.
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by referrals from our HQ.
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national media & PR
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from corporate customers
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in nearby vacant territories.
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from trading associates.
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from other members.
Only you can offer your choice of services in your territory. If you are Part P & Gas Safe qualified then we don't put anyone else into your area. If you are not, we aim to network you with others who are and who will reciprocate business with you. All leads and referrals are yours alone. We don't give them to anyone else.
We mean a real-life interactive community of like-minded professionals with shared objectives. Members can interact with others around the UK, sharing their knowledge and experience, all of which helps them to grow their business; plus they can cross-pollinate with other trades, referring work they don't do - and vice versa - or they can sub-contract (with the customers approval) to other people in their own network of local contacts as it grows.
Yes, but only if you already have an established handyman businesses, this being subject to references and other checks. Our limitations here are designed to: a) to reduce risks on both sides; b) to give us time to get know one another; and c) enable you to establish a strong business with our help at a much reduced cost.
Probably, but we hold our options open. Ideally we'd like to see everyone become a co-owner of the brand (Franchisee) because we know that in the long term the value to both of us will be much greater. This is true for any successful franchise. It's like comparing a McDonalds to a Fred's Cafe, or a Holiday Inn to a Betty's B&B. It's obvious which is worth more. We want you to be in a position where you have something valuable if you choose to retire or sell.
Frankly, in the current economic climate not many people can afford the full cost of a franchise from the outset. Our method enables them to become established in much the same way but with minimal capital outlay. Once we have helped them get underway and making good profits, then they can afford to upgrade and start to gain equity (business value) under the Brand.
This varies significantly in different parts of the country. We have had cases where customers have contacted members within hours of joining, yet other instances where it takes a few weeks. What we say to all members is to judge it on a monthly basis. Even if you get only one job, let's say kitchen or bathroom fitting, just that is definitely worth the subscription. But you should get many more than that.
Anyone starting a new business - any business - should be aware that it takes between 3-5 years of hard graft and solid commitment. Being self employed has lots of rewards and advantages but it is not for the feint hearted. Being part of a franchise will give you a definite advantage, but it's still hard work.
Yes. During our first five years we saw three failures (6%), all in very poor parts of the Country. Now we simply don't offer licenses in areas which we suspect won't work. It would be a waste of everyone's time. We also had to deal with two rogue traders who deceived their way in.
Yes, but we hope that all will upgrade within 3-4 years. The reasons are twofold: Firstly, there is no question that branding significantly increases credibility and brings much more business, especially amongst the wealthy and the commercial sector. Secondly, non-branded members do not contribute to the visibility or growth of the brand that we all share.
Without doubt the biggest challenge in seeking the "best of the best" is in finding the right people. That doesn't mean that you need to be a master craftsman to join us, many members begin at a very basic level of service. Put bluntly the building industry in general is riddled with cowboys and as you might expect we are very choosey about who we share our name and reputation with.
If that describes you, please join us or call for a chat on 0777 571
5799
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