Article contained within:  Case Studies, Cafe2U Franchisee: Steve Dyson

Cafe2U Franchisee: Steve Dyson

Age 44
CV: Previously a military photographer
Location: Leeds
Bought in: July 2009

Launched in 2005, Cafe2U it now boasts more than 45 franchises across the country showing a fast-growing mobile café franchise.

Did you find buying a franchise an easy process?

Steve Dyson: Yes I did. I suggest to any prospective franchisee, don’t be anxious or negative – if you think a business that looks ‘too good to be true’ don’t dismiss it straightaway, instead you should think ‘I’ve got a great opportunity here.’

Before I made my final decision I went to a few franchisee meetings the franchisor showed me around the company vans, and told me what the business required.

How long did it take and how did you go about buying a franchise?

Steve: I was looking in January and started my business in July of the same year, so it only took seven months – that includes researching and buying.

I heard of the red V20 vans and that’s when I came across the Cafe2U website.

What did you do before you decided to buy a franchise?

Steve:  I was a military photographer in the Royal Air Force, and travelled to Iraq and Afghanistan.

What a big transition! How did to go from military photographer to buying a coffee franchise?

Steve: When I reached a certain stage in my life I wanted to do something different – something that would fit into my lifestyle, and I would still enjoy. So I decided to leave my job at the RAF.

I’m someone who likes to be on-the-go and this business model provides that opportunity – I think you should always look for a franchise that suits your preference and lifestyle.

Do you feel your job fits in well with your lifestyle?

Steve: If you’re good at time management you can definitely fit the hours around your lifestyle, because I’m 44 and have responsibilities this business model is sustainable – which is one of the perks I find being a franchisee.

I normally load the van at 6:30am, the first van stop is 8:30am and I finish my day around 1:30pm. The job keeps you on your toes, and like any business you have to put the effort in to be successful.

What made you decide it was the right franchise for you?

Steve: When it came to the final decision I was 100% sure it was the right franchise for me, I think it was mainly due to the professionalism and the training Cafe2U offered.

They provide day-to-day assistance with the van and business start up, which made everything a lot easier. I think being confident when buying a franchise is important.

What would you advise a prospective franchise buyer?

Steve: Keep in mind what you want to get out of the franchise opportunity, study the overheads and compare it with your realistic financial aim.

Also, look at the business model, and consider what you want to get out of that model in terms of income and job satisfaction.

FranchiseSales offers a variety of café franchise opportunities.