NAVY TO FRANCHISEE WITH MR. ELECTRIC
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Martin Brown, the Mr. Electric franchisee operating in Peterborough, Lincoln and Grimsby talks about the transition from the Navy to becoming a franchisee.
What role did you do in the forces? I was a Master at Arms in the Royal Navy (Police Royal Navy) and for the last 5 years I have been working as a training Analyst.
Why did you leave the forces?
After 23 years service I needed a change, taking full advantage of the Resettlement allowance, and the Standard and Enhanced Learning Credit. 2 -3 years prior to leaving I retrained as an electrician doing a number of qualifications including PRINCE 2, City and Guilds 17th Edition, Testing and Inspection 2391-10, Part P, PAT Testing and 2330. I decided that my best course of action was to combine both my management and electrical skills in setting up on my own as a electrical contracting business.
Why Mr. Electric?
Looking at the market I was moving into I had two choices, set up on my own, or look at taking on a Franchise. Having done a lot of research and talking to other franchisees I decided that Mr. Electric could give me the best opportunity to succeed due to the support structures in place. In addition another advantage is that being part of a National Company opens the doors to National Contacts with major corporations, which would not normally be open to a sole trader. Looking at the statistics a franchised company has a better chance of success than going it alone.
What have you been doing prior to Franchisee Training?
5 months before my start date, I began preparing for my companies start date, which involved researching the area to understand the business opportunities, setting up the company, Networking, talking with HMRC, Business Link and the Bank. I spent a lot of time preparing my business plan, ensuring that it was 100% accurate and covered every question that may be asked.
Advice to anyone thinking about franchising?
My advice to anyone who is thinking of going down the Franchise route is to research the company, the product, talk to other Franchisees and be committed and willing to put everything into your business both emotionally and financially.
How do you see the future?
“Although owning a franchise is hard work, the rewards are considerable. The work is varied and always interesting and other local Mr. Electric franchisees are on hand to offer advice or vice versa.
In the future I would like to continue expanding the portfolio of local clients and develop long term relationships with national accounts. The aim is to become the leading electrical contractor in the local area and the first port of call for homeowners and businesses.”
