Special Feature
of your life. The most recent figures from the Office for National Statistics reveal there are just under 14 million dependent children living in the UK, an increase of over 700,000 from a decade ago. Children’s services franchises are only going to thrive with a demographic this large. Pip Wilkins, chief executive of the British Franchise Association, says: “There’s never been a larger or more varied selection of businesses offering franchise opportunities in this area.” From swimming to tuition and from arts and crafts to theatre, there’s
W
orking with children may not be for everyone but it has the potential to be one of the most rewarding decisions
a passion for just about everyone. And passion is key with kids’ franchises – you have to be motivated and patient, and a lot of hard work is required in these arenas, particularly at the start. But they are also immensely satisfying and a huge amount of fun.
Usually taking place during school term time, children’s services franchises are perfect for those with a family to look after or who simply want a second income. Outside the classes, franchisees tend to manage the preparation and admin side of the business from home, keeping costs low. Indeed, the majority of kids’ franchises can be set up with an investment that won’t break the bank. What’s more, you can rely heavily on the power of word of mouth. Parents and
teachers talk with each other, and if they hold your business in high regard, then that’s free advertising right there. As your franchise grows and you take on more pupils, there is the option to expand and either establish another set of classes or run the business in a more managerial position. With a kids’ franchise, you will be offering a service that puts children on the right path at a vital stage in their early development, while nurturing their creativity and wellbeing. If that sounds appealing, and you’re looking to combine your interest and skills with a more balanced and flexible lifestyle, then look no further. Here, three franchisees reveal why they decided to get down with the kids…
Clear Hair
they are just at the end of the phone and stay in touch all the time. I get regular enquiries from both the main UK website and my own microsite. I get advice on running the business, looking after the finances and, of course, marketing the brand in my local area.
What has been the biggest challenge so far?
Maxine Brown
Maxine opened her franchise in April 2017 and covers Lancashire
This is a new treatment, so it’s not so familiar to people, but it is a common problem; with the help of Clear Hair we have been optimised in Google and we have received lots of interest. Locally, I have been visiting schools and talking to groups about the issues to raise some awareness.
Why did you decide to become a Clear Hair franchisee?
I have always worked with children and families, and I really enjoy helping them to solve this problem. Overcoming issues with repeated head lice is something I have seen that affects children in schools.
How was the initial training? The training is intense but I enjoyed it. It is important to deliver the treatment exactly as the company defines it; once trained, it makes total sense. Practise made perfect and now I can’t imagine that I ever thought this could be a challenge.
How much support do you get from head office?
The head office has been very supportive;
What are the advantages of working mainly when schools are off? Because the children we see need after- school appointments or need to come in the holidays, it fits with my own life – I am working the diary to suit me.
How do you see your business growing in the future? The growth is exponential, as more people are becoming aware that there is an alternative to endless combing of hair as a routine. If I look at the US model, which this license is based on, most clinics are treating in excess of 65 patients a month.
How have you found trading so far? What benefits are there to working in this industry?
I am satisfied with the business so far; it fits my life and the treatment numbers are growing month by month. People are extremely grateful and thankful when they find you. One of the benefits is that being
an early adopter of a technology means you can help to create and shape a new market.
Would you recommend franchising to others and, in particular, in the kids sector? If you like children and want flexible working it is one of the best ways to earn a living. I like the brand, the product and what Clear Hair stands for. I had no idea how enthusiastic I would be. My mood always lifts when I walk in the clinic. I get to meet and help so many people.
Describe a typical day... I will spend some time during the day answering calls and enquiries, talking to people about the treatments. They enquire by email but I try and call them, as a lot of people can be worried or upset and have a real problem. During term time I will visit a school and talk to groups of parents and children in assemblies.
I update my Facebook and cover some social media. I get to the clinic at around 2.30pm to get ready for the treatments that are booked. There is not so much preparation other than checking everything is ready and I have clean sterile tools. Treatments are generally relaxed – the clients spend just over an hour with you, and parents enjoy the time spent having a coffee while the children are treated. I clear up and make sure all the furniture and the clinic is cleaned thoroughly. The appearance of the clinic and the experience is an important part of keeping the strength of the brand. Saturdays tend to be busy – we have two machines to treat the head lice, so I employ another operator when I get busy.
October 2017 |
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