Age: 30
CV: Previously a graphic designer
Location: Glasgow, Scotland
Bought in: 2007
What attracted you to buy a franchise?
Graham: My previous job became increasingly competitive, and I felt franchise offered me a sense of security – that was my main reason.
Also, I wanted that chance to run my own business.
So you went from graphic design to the food industry – how did you find such a big transition?
Graham: When I was at university I gained experience in the food industry, so I did have background knowledge which made the transition easier.
I think no matter how different the industry is, as long as the franchisor offers a good business model you can make it work.
Was it the business model that attracted you to the franchise?
Graham: I researched franchise opportunities for three months on various websites, including FranchiseSales.com, and Baguette Express was one that stood out for me.
Do you feel the franchise fits in with your lifestyle?
Graham: Yes. I live in Glasgow and almost all the Baguette Express franchises are based in Scotland, so that helped.
Also, the total investment was in my price range, so it matched my needs financially – I didn’t want the fear of debt and limited funds.
To what extent did your daily routine change?
Graham: I currently own four shops, which I never would have predicted – at times I’m thinking about ‘crisis management!’
Overseeing all four franchises is a tough job, you must ensure they all work to the best of their ability – that's what takes up most of my day.
How do you feel about managing four shops being only 30 years old?
Graham: I learnt a lot from running my first franchise and that's when I developed my skills. It was only when I felt confident that I decided to buy more shops.
How long did it take you to buy four franchises?
Graham: Two years. I went from being a franchisee that worked within the business, to a supervisor.
The biggest challenge was trust – to trust that other people could run a franchise with as much dedication as I had.
What advice would you give to someone looking for a franchise?
Graham: Find a franchise that’s going to suit you and one that will fit into your lifestyle.
Also, understand you must be willing to work hard and have determination – this will get you through any difficulties.
The Baguette Express Franchise Opportunity
Franchise costs: From £ 75k to £115k plus VAT. (This includes costs for initial license fee, shop fitting, legal/property fees and initial working capital requirements).
What you get for your money: The Baguette Express brand name and image – full store design, fit-out, design principles, full operations manuals, and an opening set of branded promotional material.
Also get an induction training programme and ongoing training support and support visits. As well as sales policy, product supply and pricing advice, with access to national marketing campaigns, marketing assistance and PR.
What franchisees make: Approximate net annual profit of £46,200.
FranchiseSales.co.uk lists various sandwich franchise opportunities and BusinessesForSale.com hosts over one thousand sandwich shops and sandwich delivery businesses.
