Special Feature
Rajeev Sharma is a Subway franchisee with 13 stores across Hampshire and East and West Sussex, employing around 120 people.
Subway
What did you do before franchising and what prompted you to make the change?
I worked in a Subway store, first as a Sandwich Artist and then latterly as a store manager, gaining valuable experience of the brand and store operations from the ground up. I could really see the attraction of a Subway franchise. My experience in-store gave me the confidence to believe that I could run a successful franchise myself.
Tell us about your journey going from single business owner to multi-unit franchisee. I opened my first store in Brighton in 2010, before going on to open a further 13 stores across Brighton, Southampton, Portsmouth, Shoreham-by-Sea, Gosport and Portslade. I run these stores with the assistance of my area manager and store managers, who help ensure we provide exceptional customer service.
What attracted you to the Subway franchise opportunity? Having worked in a Subway store, I could really see the attraction of a franchise. I witnessed first-hand the support provided, not just for new franchisees, but also ongoing advice and guidance for experienced franchisees to help them get the best out of their businesses. Having done some research, I was also impressed with the relatively low startup costs, compared to other franchise brands.
What was the initial training and support like?
As a new franchisee, I went on a comprehensive two-week training course, which included time in the classroom as
well as in a store. My local development team was always on hand to provide advice and support, no matter how big or small the question, really making sure that I got my business up and running successfully.
What training and support is available on an ongoing basis? Subway provides very good support to franchisees, whenever it is required, not just for new franchisees. Ongoing advice and guidance is always available for experienced franchisees to help them get the best out of their businesses.
How was trading in the beginning and how is business today? Like every business, I have faced challenges, particularly as new brands have come to market. But my focus has always been on providing an exceptional service and great value for my customers, which keeps them coming back.
Describe a typical day… Every day is different, with the opportunity to get involved in all areas, from front of house to purchasing, local store marketing, HR and recruitment. On a daily basis, I check the performance of all my stores and liaise with my area manager and store managers to find out if there are any issues and to provide advice and guidance.
How has life changed since you launched your franchise? How do you adapt when you take on more units? Becoming a Subway franchisee has been a hugely positive experience, thanks to the support provided. It has enabled me to become my own boss, but with the added reassurance that I am working with
a well-known brand, within a tried-and- tested business model. I have more flexibility and control over my working life, as well as a greater work-life balance and can set my own long-term plans. Since I opened my first store, I have expanded my team to include an area manager, as well as individual store managers, who provide invaluable support to help me run my stores successfully.
What qualities does someone need to be a successful franchisee? Successful franchisees are passionate about the brand. They are hard-working and customer focused, and willing to get involved in all aspects of the business, from serving customers to HR, local store marketing and ordering. They are organised, articulate and possess good business skills and awareness. They are also willing to take advice and guidance from others.
What are your plans for the future? With the help of my area manager and store managers, I will continue to run my 13 stores successfully. I also hope to open new Subway stores across the south, creating new job opportunities for local people.
Would you recommend a Subway franchise to others? I would certainly recommend a Subway franchise; I’d make the same decision again in a heartbeat. Subway is a leading global brand, offering prospective franchisees the chance to become their own boss, but with the added reassurance that they are working within a tried-and-tested business model. Startup costs are also relatively low for a brand of its size and stature.
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BusinessFranchise.com | April 2018
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