An Australian Franchisee Case Study
Name: Kylie Richardson
Location: Melville
Franchise: Top Snap
Why did you go down the franchise route? And why did you choose Top Snap franchise?
My main attraction to purchasing a franchise was to have the behind the scenes support whilst still being able to manage my own business and my own hours. I have two young children and my husband works in a fly in/fly out role. I wanted to have the flexibility to work the hours that suited our family and do something I am passionate about, whilst still having ownership of the business.
The main attraction to Top Snap was the quality of the photographs produced, the positive feedback from clients and the accessible support network.
What did you do before taking up your Top Snap franchise?
I worked in the Travel Industry for six years, three of those in Management. I also completed my Diploma in Human Resources Management.
How did you raise the finance?
During the sale of our house we put aside the funds.
What training and support did you receive initially and ongoing?
Initially it was via phone calls and emails and I found that I was always made to feel comfortable asking questions and was answered promptly.
Once I was ready to proceed with the business I flew to Sydney for two weeks of one on one training with Agi, the in-house photographer and trainer.
This consisted of on the job training learning the ins and outs of the role on a day to day basis. We had 3-4 classroom style days to cover the systems, marketing, sales, products etc and two days of practice shoots to fine tune our skills.
Ongoing is emails and phone calls which again have been helpful.
What is a typical day for you as a Top Snap franchisee?
I am still in the early stages of setting up the business so at this stage it is more about business development and marketing. However, once I do my initial marketing promotions I will be contacting agents and starting to build up my client base.
Over a time a typical day will be to head to shoots daily, sorting and uploading photos for the post production team to edit and invoicing clients. Aside from that a bit of admin and marketing would be a typical day.
What challenges have you faced?
At this stage nothing too overwhelming but I suspect this will change after the initial marketing I suspect these will be standard issues faced in sales and customer service and teething problems with learning new products and systems.
Has becoming a franchisee changed your life, if so how?
Too early to tell but I plan on it changing my life for the better!
What advice would you give to someone thinking of buying their first franchise?
Lots of research on the company/brand and the support systems. Also due diligence on the financial benefits/implications and what you do and don’t have control over.
What are your plans for the future?
Build up the business to a manageable level and enjoy the ride.
Would you do it again?
At this stage, yes.