A Whole New Life…
We were proud to recently feature in the Daily Mail franchise column – you can read the article below.
You can change your life for under £15,000.
The Countrywide Signs franchise, which involves managing For Sale and To Let boards for local estate agencies, is offering the chance to start a life-changing business for £14,995.
Countrywide Signs director and franchise development manager Justin Pearce explains:
“We offer estate agents countrywide coverage, so in the few areas where we have no franchisee, we employ contractors to erect and remove signs. They can charge above market rates, which we don’t like, and our existing franchisees dislike seeing contractors earning over the odds for the job.”
So Countrywide has a new plan that solves the coverage problem and offers an affordable franchise opportunity.
“Our new franchise package offers all the business essentials, including comprehensive training, head office technical and accounts support, specialist tools, and the first year’s commercial insurance. New franchisees also get a uniform, marketing materials, licensed use of a bespoke sign board and business management system, and access to telesales campaigns,” says Justin.
“At £14,995, it is less likely that you will need to borrow money to get started, which makes setting up easier and reduces your financial risk – though we can introduce you to lenders if you need it.”
The territory is smaller than is traditional with Countrywide Signs, but still offers room to grow the business from one to three vans.
Martin Pitts freely admits that Countrywide Signs has transformed his life. The former motor trade manager from Worcester says: “I launched my franchise in 2018, supported by Countrywide Signs’ head office. It’s like having a business mentor.
“At present I combine marketing our service, driving around installing and removing signs and doing the admin, so it’s hard work, but much more rewarding than being an employee. Growing a business is easier when you have the Countrywide system to follow, and I am already ambitious to expand to two or three vans and move into management.”
The 52- year-old adds: “Owning my Countrywide Signs franchise is more satisfying than working for someone else. People have asked if I would return to my life as an employee – but I can’t see me ever going back now.”
Will it suit you? Justin says: “Yes, if you like to provide high levels of customer service, enjoy marketing your business face to face, and using basic practical skills in a varied, outdoor life.”
It’s not just for men – Countrywide Signs has two women franchisees, both of whom have grown their franchises into multi-van businesses, and it also welcomes the skills of armed services leavers.