An Australian Franchisee Case Study
Dave Read
Perth, Western Australia
Burswood/Fremantle Signarama
Why did you choose franchising?
Didn’t really choose franchising, I was looking for “something” and it seemed like a good fit.
What did you do before taking up your Signarama franchise?
I was a project manager for a mapping/ surveying company that provided geospatial related information derived from Satellite Imagery, Aerial Photography, Laser Scanning and Hydrographical Surveying. Basically I made maps!
How did you raise the finance?
My wife and I have an investment portfolio built up over about 10 or so years that enabled us to access equity to fund the purchase.
What training and support did you receive initially and ongoing from Signarama?
Initial training was provided by way of an intensive 2 week course that focussed primarily on sales and marketing and learning the franchise system. On start-up the mentor program gives you an opportunity to see a successful store operate first hand. Ongoing support is but a phone call away.
What challenges have you faced?
I only have a brief paragraph! Many and varied challenges including but not limited to employees (retention there of), cash flow, coping with steep learning curves and dealing with my poor time management skills.
Has becoming a franchisee with Signarama changed your life, if so how?
It’s definitely provided a platform for a lot of personal growth. In business there isn’t really anywhere to hide (for long anyway). Your abilities and inabilities are reflected in your success or failures on a daily basis. It’s your ability to look at yourself in the mirror and accept your shortcomings and make steady progress towards overcoming them that improves you on all levels.
What advice would you give to someone thinking of buying their first franchise?
Have plenty of working capital to start with but don’t get complacent. Hit the ground running and sell, sell, sell!
What are your plans for the future?
To build an extremely successful business that will provide even more opportunities into the future.
Would you do it again?
Yep!