Franchise Focus Success INVESTMENT LEVEL: £35,000
to-day basis it is good to know you can pick up the phone and there will be help at the end of the line.
with Express
Jan Chidley, owner of Recognition Express Hull and East Riding, provides a perfect example of women succeeding in franchising
What was it about Recognition Express that attracted you? Nigel Toplis and the team are very supportive, there is a wide range of good quality products and hence a broad range of potential customers, and the business model is sound. My husband Chris was aware of
Recognition Express and had met Nigel on several occasions. We both felt that Recognition Express was the right sort of business for me.
Jan Chidley J
What advice would you give to other women thinking of starting their own business? It is hard work, with a lot of commitment required, but if you get it right it is extremely satisfying. It is all about meeting people on a regular basis, forming good relationships and being able to deliver the end product. Having my own business gives me
an Chidley, 47, was born in New Zealand and first came to England at the age of 21 for a working holiday. Jan did a multitude of jobs, including banking, working as a nanny and
a credit controller, before meeting her husband Chris and starting a family. Jan and Chris have twins Sam and Sophie, who are at university, and Holly who is almost 16. Having been a full-time mum providing stability for the children whilst they traveled the world with Chris’s job, Jan decided in June 2008 that now was her time and set up Recognition Express Hull and East Riding. Although Jan is the sole franchisee, husband Chris has been a big support along with the head office staff.
What attracted you to franchising? I had a business back in New Zealand with
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Businessfranchise.com | May 2012
“The team are very supportive, there is a wide range of good quality products and a broad range of potential customers”
my father, growing apples. We sold it and I decided that I wanted to do something in the UK now that my family are nearly all grown up. I like the idea of doing something that is my own business but where I am supported. My husband, Chris, is the CEO of a large
nationwide franchise – Driver Hire, and I could see the benefits of being a part of a franchise. There is a lot of support needed when starting a new business, and on a day-
flexibility around my home life, however it is important to remain focused on the business and to continue to put in the time required to keep things on the up. It is not a hobby.
Would you recommend it to other women? I would recommend franchising to other women. Whilst you have to do your homework before signing on the dotted line, you should be buying into a proven business model. For busy women this can be an appealing option. n
RECOGNITION EXPRESS
WEBSITE:
www.recognition-express.com EMAIL:
stoplis@recognition-express.com PHONE: 01530 513 300 CLASSIFICATION: Business-to-business
Investment: £20k-£50k
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