An Australian Franchisee Case Study
Name: Clinton Webster-Hill
Location: Essendon
Franchise: V.I.P Home Services-Fencing
Why did you go down the franchise route? And why did you choose your franchise?
Research told me that franchises have a much higher success rate then independents. As I did not have any experience running a business previously, a franchise system that had a proven system in place was smart move in my mind.
I chose V.I.P. Home Services due to their size and long history of success in Australia. The added appeal was having Warren Smith and Vea Johnston running the Fencing and Home maintenance division. They both have an extensive and successful history in the franchise world.
What did you do before taking up a V.I.P franchise?
I had various roles in transport and logistics.
How did you raise the finance?
Financed against my home.
What training and support did you receive initially and ongoing?
8 weeks paid training, that included both practical on tools training and business training. It felt to me like it was 6 months of training built into 8 weeks, very comprehensive. I still receive ongoing support whenever I need it.
What is a typical day for you as a V.I.P franchisee?
I start off by jumping on my computer, checking answering emails, planning my day etc. Then it is off to the work site building fences. Quoting on various days is also required.
What challenges have you faced?
Time management has been my biggest challenge. Sometimes I can spend too much time scrutinising little things, which can be a real time killer.
Has becoming a franchisee changed your life, if so how?
It has definitely changed my life for the better. I really enjoy meeting new people and being at various work sites. Not having a boss, and fellow employees to deal with is definitely a bonus also.
What marketing/promotional tools do you use to grow your franchise?
V.I.P. Home Services-Fencing has various tools such as online, local paper adverting, and local area marketing tools that both the franchisor and the franchisee are actively growing.
What differentiates your V.I.P franchise from the competition?
Experience, support and extensive brand management.
In your opinion, what makes a successful franchisee?
You have to be a go-getter, someone that doesn’t need their hand held and is willing to put in the time and effort.
What advice would you give to someone thinking of buying their first franchise?
If you’re sick of going the extra yards for your employer and not getting returns for your efforts, what are you waiting for?
What are your plans for the future?
Concentrate on growing a successful business initially, with plans to become more involved with the VIP Home Services-Fencing Franchise system down the track.
Would you do it again?
Absolutely, I wish I could have done it earlier.
To find out more about V.I.P’ Fencing’s franchise opportunity, click here.
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V.I.P. Home Services. Fencing and Home Maintenance franchise