What Franchise - Issue 21.2

WHATARE THE BIGGEST CHALLENGES SERVICE- BASED BUSINESSES FACE AND HOWDOES FRANCHISING HELP OVERCOME THEM? Howdifferent does amobile or ‘on-the-road’ franchise feel compared to a traditional storefront? A mobile franchise feels very different to a traditional storefront. And for many people, it’s a far more natural, flexible way to run a business. Instead of waiting for customers to come to you, an on-the-road model takes your products or service directly to them. That changes everything… your working rhythm, customer relationships, and even the pace of your growth. With a mobile franchise, overheads are significantly lower. There’s no rent, no business rates and no utilities tied to a fixed location. Your “premises” is your vehicle, and that gives you freedom. You control your route, your schedule and the level of contact you have with customers. For franchisees who enjoy being out and about, it’s ideal. The customer relationships are different too. In a mobile model, you’re walking into your customers’ world – their workplace, their environment – which naturally builds trust and loyalty. For many Snap-on franchisees, that personal connection becomes the biggest driver of repeat business. A mobile franchise also creates momentum quickly.Without the constraints of footfall or location, you can build a customer base faster and scale your turnover simply by adjusting your route, extending your day or adding a second vehicle as you grow. For anyone who prefers flexibility, autonomy and customer interaction, a mobile franchise can feel not only different, but far more rewarding than a traditional storefront. Gemma Good, Franchise Systems Manager, Snap-on Tools M A K I N G T H E L E A P Most service businesses start the same way – one person, one van, one big dream. You’re great at what you do, but suddenly you’re also the marketer, the admin, the bookkeeper and the customer service team. It’s rewarding work, but it’s relentless – and it can feel like you’re building the plane while flying it. Franchising takes the pressure off. With proven systems, training and ongoing support, it gives new business owners the structure to grow sustainably and the confidence to deliver a consistently professional service from day one. In the early days, most service providers wear every hat. You’re doing the work, managing bookings, replying to enquiries and squeezing in admin after hours. The challenge is knowing when – and how – to make the leap from solo operator to business owner. That’s where a franchise makes a real difference. Franchisees start with a clear roadmap for growth. For example, MPP’s tech-led systems streamline everything from customer communications to invoicing, giving franchisees the breathing space to focus on the work that really drives success. In a service business, reputation is everything. Processes that help franchisees deliver consistently high-quality experiences from the first call to the final invoice is how you turn one-time customers into loyal advocates. Karen Prewer, CEO, My Property Pros (MPP) 42 WHAT FRANCHISE Issue 21.2