Franchise Focus Food for thought
From the army to the golden arches, Cherry Lewis-Taylor has found great success with McDonald’s
INVESTMENT LEVEL: FROM £150,000* Cherry Lewis-Taylor has been shortlisted in the bfa HSBC Franchisee of the Year Awards C
herry Lewis-Taylor said: “After spending 21 years as a major in the British army, the time felt right for a new challenge. Franchising was not something
that had been on my radar, but, as someone who always wanted to start my own business, I thought it would be a great opportunity.
“Although I had acquired many transferable skills in my military career I didn’t have a long list of business credentials! So I took an Advanced Management Appreciation course, which was a real eye opener into the world of business.
“I did a lot of research into the franchising options available. McDonald’s stood out to me and I made it my goal to be part of a company that I had long admired and respected, not to mention liking their products. I even took up a position as a crew member in my local McDonald’s restaurant. This enabled me to understand how the business worked, while also giving me experience in all areas of McDonald’s. “McDonald’s is one of the leading franchisors in the sector, so I was confi dent that they would offer me the opportunity to build my business. After a rigorous selection process, and an extensive and
supportive training programme, I became a franchisee in 1996. Back then, I employed just 45 members of staff. Today, this same restaurant operates 24/7, employs 145 members of staff and has the third busiest drive-thru in the country. Subsequently, I have acquired an additional three restaurants and employ 475 members of staff in total.
“Most importantly, McDonald’s is a people business, and without my staff I certainly wouldn’t be able to run four successful restaurants”
“Franchising at McDonald’s has given me a wealth of opportunities, but it hasn’t all been plain sailing. Being a franchisee is hard work and there is always someone relying on you. Despite this, the pros outweigh the cons. Being my own boss offers me fl exibility and control over my business, and if any issues do arise, the McDonald’s team is just a call away.
“One of my highlights has to be working with the local community and demonstrating to them the positive impact McDonald’s can have on the environment. I host regular litter picks through our partnership with Keep Britain Tidy, in which the restaurant team work alongside volunteers to help clean up the local area. “Most importantly, McDonald’s is a people business, and without my staff I certainly wouldn’t be able to run four successful restaurants. I am keen to help those who want to progress. Two of my current business managers, who have been with me since the very beginning, have been recognised as being in the top one per cent of business managers across the company worldwide – an accolade I am extremely proud of. “Franchising isn’t for everyone – it’s important to remember that it’s a long- term commitment and requires dedication and determination. I’d recommend doing your research so you know who and what you’re getting involved with. A good franchisor will support you all the way, so it’s vital to check their credentials. “Where possible, try and speak to some of their other franchisees as this will give you a good indication of what the role entails. I was also reassured that McDonald’s was a full member of the British Franchise Association, and had a proven trading and franchising record. “It has been a privilege to be part of this company for the past 20 years and to be involved in many of the decision- making processes along the way. Running a McDonald’s restaurant really is a team effort, with the company, franchisees and suppliers all working together. Working with so many talented and dedicated people, and seeing them develop over the years, has been a pleasure and made it all worthwhile.”
McDonald’s Quick-service restaurant
www.mcdonalds.co.uk/franchising
October 2016 |
BusinessFranchise.com | 91
*of which 25 per cent must be in unencumbered funds.
Investment:£100k+
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