An Australian Franchisee Case Study
Name: Rodney Keyaerts
Location: Mulgrave, Victoria, Australia
Franchise: Accolades and More South East Melbourne
Why did you go down the franchise route? And why did you choose Accolades and More franchise?
Being made redundant from a large corporate organisation after 22 years I was looking for a future that included working for myself but receive the support and guidance from a national team.
What did you do before taking up your Accolades and More franchise?
I researched a number of franchise options to ensure I settled on a future that would ensure the lifestyle change I was looking for and yet the challenges that get me out of bed each morning.
How did you raise the finance?
Having the collateral behind me I was able to obtain finance through a bank.
What training and support did you receive initially and ongoing?
Accolades and More offered a 5 day initial training period where I was exposed to all the facets of the business. All the material was presented both visually and then practically which cemented our learning’s. We were then given the material on a disk to take home. The cream was the offer of my own business coach which included 3 months free support and coaching which is priceless given the inexperience of my business knowledge.
What is a typical day for you as an Accolades and More franchisee?
A typical day changes from day to day but it includes the developing & implementation of marketing campaigns, the following up of leads from campaigns, the processing of captured orders, customer service activities, maintaining relationships with my franchisor, processing of invoices and then the collection of monies.
What challenges have you faced?
Given that I have come from a Roof Tiling manufacturing background, the world of trophies, apparel and picture framing is very foreign to me. The support offered from head office has been priceless and paramount to me getting to where I can face the customer with confidence and speak about the products with clarity.
Has becoming a franchisee changed your life, if so how?
It is early to say but already I can see a sense of freedom from the corporate monster and the support to achieve my own business aims and goals.
What advice would you give to someone thinking of buying their first franchise?
I would encourage anyone who is looking for a lifestyle change to research the many franchise opportunities available. A franchise business can give you the freedom to run your own business and an adjusted lifestyle all supported by committed franchisors striving for your success.
What are your plans for the future?
With an initial 5 year commitment I plan to make my first term as successful as I can make it. Having a franchisor beside you all the way it is going to be pretty tough to fall short of that objective.
Would you do it again?
My involvement in the world of franchising only extends a few months but it has been an enjoyable and supportive ride where I would definitely look at and recommend becoming a part of a franchise business in the future.