The story so far
French style in the Home Counties
Mobalpa, the designer kitchen brand from France, opened its 10th franchise showroom earlier this year in Reading. Business Franchise speaks to its owner Abbas Twaij
T
his most recent store is Mobalpa’s most up-to-date concept using the latest designs, styles and innovative fi t-out materials. As a relatively new franchisee, but with a few months under his belt, Abbas shares his insights into his early franchise journey, the tasks he undertakes, the pre-opening process and how business is going for his new team in Reading.
Before the launch Why did you choose Mobalpa? Because of the versatility in the product range. Mobalpa off ers some amazing kitchens with almost endless possibilities but also bathroom and living furniture. Another key factor was the head
offi ce support and advice that I have received, specifi cally from Kyle Whittle and Cyril Raberin, at the point of fi rst contact and throughout the whole process, including assistance in creating the fi nal business plan. I have also received support from the whole UK team on various subjects, and my team and I had full training in the UK and France. The business model was fantastic, as
there were no franchise fees to pay and Mobalpa helped to fi nance part of the project interest free in order to get the business off to a good start.
What were you most excited about? The location of my store was a real fi nd and something I was very excited about. It’s ideal because it is on a very busy road into town with great visibility and as my store is raised up above fl oor level, you can’t miss it!
I was also very excited to come back to the UK to be part of such a healthy franchise scheme that I believe will fl ourish and where I’ve already learned new skills – and adapted old ones.
My personal objective is to be fully involved in contracts and to prove that we can sell our product to developers looking for a more premium fi nish. I also plan to open a second showroom within the next two to three years.
What was the most challenging part of the whole process?
Securing the location and getting it all up to speed. The premises was not a retail property when we fi rst took it on and so there were a number of works that needed to be carried out. But I am very happy with the fi nish achieved and was grateful for the support I received during this process.
Any standout moments by this point? I would say creating the business plan and seeing the opportunity that we had. Also, the training was not only informative but fun. However, if I had to choose one thing, it would be securing my fi rst contract job to supply 10 kitchens for a residential development in London.
Opening the store
What would say is the most important aspect to get right?
Organisation and ensuring that all steps are followed as closely as possible. You also need to fully embrace the Mobalpa culture and training to ensure that you understand how to sell the product.
Any advice for new franchisees? Again, follow the training and the Mobalpa way and make sure that you get a great team around you.
Apart from training, what other support was given to you prior and since opening? I was invited to spend three days in a franchise store with Mo, the franchisee at Pinner, and I found this very useful to give me an insight into the business fi rst- hand. It helped me to understand how to get things done and how business is executed in Mobalpa.
How was the launch day? We had a full marketing plan put together and generated a fair amount of footfall on the day. It was a great event to be part of and we also had visits from councillors of our local community and a professional chef supplied by household appliance brand BSH.
Abbas and his team
Trading so far...
How long did you have to wait before your fi rst order? The fi rst came through within 10 days of opening! We have had some good orders since then, including the contract work, so I am very happy.
What day-to-day duties are you involved with now that your shop is open?
I am fully engaged and involved in every step of the store operation, from welcoming customers, creating technical drawings and even off ering tea and coff ee. I also make sure that orders and deliveries are correct and overlooking the complete installation... plus everything in between.
What are you looking achieve in your fi rst six months? Increasing public awareness within the Berkshire region. Ensuring that the local community and surrounding areas are aware of Mobalpa and our fantastic products.
It is important not only for me but for the whole business that the Reading showroom is continually supported, as it represents a new venture for Mobalpa as a business. My store could potentially lead other investors to begin their own projects and it also proves that showrooms outside London can be as successful as stores within the M25!
welcome@mobalpa.com June 2018 |
BusinessFranchise.com | 63
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