An Australian Franchisee Case Study
Name: Elizabeth Keeley
Location: Townsville
Franchise: Aussie Pooch Mobile Dog Wash
Why did you go down the franchise route? And why did you choose Aussie Pooch Mobile franchise?
I had seen the franchise advertised about 5 years go on TV as one of the top Franchises to own and operate in Australia, and not long after talking to Chris and comparing other franchises we decided on purchasing our own Aussie Pooch Mobile here in Townsville.
The Aussie Pooch franchise has a proven name, and the support, advice and information you receive from the system is invaluable to the running of the business.
What did you do before taking up your Aussie Pooch Mobile franchise?
I worked in Administration in the Hotel industry for 4 years. But even then I was caring for and bathing dogs; my own, my neighbours, my parents at home in my bathroom.
How did you raise the finance?
Actually took out a business loan with NAB after meeting and discussing it with some financial advisors.
What training and support did you receive initially and ongoing?
Initially there was 2 weeks on road training, one in Brisbane with another operator, and then 1 week on road in Townsville from the previous owner.
We are constantly supplied with new information from the franchise in regards to products and technique.
As Franchisees we are required to attend an annual conference, where we can meet other operators and take part in the conference and build our skills and knowledge.
Weekly support and contact from our managers, either in the form of weekly performance e-mails or phone calls.
What is a typical day for you as an Aussie Pooch Mobile franchisee?
After dropping my daughter to preschool, hooking the trailer to the back of the car, rechecking my diary for the day, and then heading to the first house. I usually start my first dog at 8am.
I will bath on average 10 dogs a day, up to 20 on Fridays and Saturdays and
I then usually clean out trailer and then go into office to finish off bookwork for the day and confirm the next day’s clients.
I try to be home by 4pm and pick my daughter up by 4:30pm.
What challenges have you faced?
My biggest challenge in the beginning was marketing, but after some advice from a marketing expert, organised by the franchise, It has become I think my greatest tool in the business.
Has becoming a franchisee changed your life, if so how?
The biggest change has been able to take control of my life. I have become more confident and independent. In controlling my work I am able to control my lifestyle.
What advice would you give to someone thinking of buying their first franchise?
For anyone who hasn’t operated their own successful business before and would like to do so, the support, training and advice you gain from a franchise system is invaluable. I would not be where I am today without them.
What are your plans for the future?
To continue to grow my business and still have the time for my family
Would you do it again?
Absolutely, I may do things differently now that I have some experience in what works and what doesn’t, but I wouldn’t hesitate to do it again.
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Aussie Pooch Mobile Dog Wash franchise