Australian Franchise News – 18-04-12
Adam Marshall, Director of Tuggerah based rewards and recognition company Accolades and More, has defied a tough retail business environment and sold his first franchise to a couple based in the Melbourne suburb of Mulgrave.
As the only franchisor within the multi-billion dollar awards industry, Marshall is keen to build on this first sale and expand on a broader national level. Enquiries are currently rolling in with current interest expressed from potential franchisees in Newcastle, Sydney, Coffs Harbour and other parts of Victoria.
“I see myself addressing an audience one day of around 50 Accolades and More franchisees. My 5-year goal is to have 10 to 15 onboard,” said Marshall.
With potential franchisees not requiring retail experience, Marshall says it is passion and drive he is looking for in an applicant above all else. Everything else from training and coaching to marketing, product ordering and accounting is supplied as part of the package.
“This is my brand and my reputation I’m selling, so their success is my success,” said Marshall.
The franchising journey
Solid business growth in a market where demand for their products and quality, old fashioned service was high prompted Marshall to launch into the franchising arena back in 2008.
He was also encouraged at the time by business coach, former President of The Entrance Chamber of Commerce and current Accolades and More Relationship Manager, Bill Annesley, who told him that not only did he believe the business was “highly franchisable,” but also that he could see Marshall has what it takes to make it happen.
“It’s a mindset,” said Annesley. “You need to believe in yourself and your business and working with Adam showed me that he had the vision and the determination to succeed.”
But the journey towards making the first sale was by no means an easy ride.
After initially outsourcing the sales process to a franchising business broker, Marshall learnt the hard way that no one knows a business like its owner.
“It didn’t work according to plan because they had no attachment, meaning the message wasn’t getting through,” he said.
Within weeks of taking control Marshall had solid leads coming in, 95% of them from SEEK or Google search.
Interestingly, but not altogether surprisingly, all enquiries to date have come from sports enthusiasts.
“People who are involved in a sporting club just get it because they understand there’s a lot of money in sport,” said Marshall.
A great product and system combined with passion, commitment & determination
Marshall has cashed in on a marketing presence he has established and maintained himself, which includes regular social media posts, blogs and a top Google presence. Above all, Marshall has a complete belief in his products, systems and the franchising model he has established. And he sells this belief well to others.
“We’re in the business of celebrating success, recognising achievement and rewarding a job well done. Our business is all about making people smile. Who wouldn’t want to be part of that?” said Marshall.
The new franchisees, Rodney and Natalie Kayaerts will open Victoria’s first Accolades and More outlet on May 1st.