Do you want to build an asset out of your own endeavours, rather than work for someone else? Earlier this year GPS-Direct began national expansion for its franchise concept, which is based on the operations of the company-owned operation in East Sussex, where the directors have almost 30 years' experience.

As a franchisee working for a wide range of businesses, from convenience stores to hotels, GPS-Direct has a particular focal area within the Residential Care Home market, where substantial UK care groups have retained their services to acquire Homes on their behalf. This provides wonderful opportunities to approach prospective vendors, where the potential vendor avoids the need to pay agents fees.

"Working in the business transfer marketplace is challenging, incredibly interesting and potentially extremely rewarding," says GPS-Direct Managing Director James Warland. "Single commissions for sales on businesses sold between £500,000 and £1 million can achieve an average of £16,000 plus VAT."

Confidentiality is the Keyword

The range of businesses sold through GPS-Direct's marketing campaigns includes hotels, cafès, bars and shops, and franchisees will be fully supported in dealing with both buyers and sellers to effectively assist in arranging financing and driving through business transfers. "Arranging business sales is a delicate service as the business must be able to operate smoothly during the difficult transfer period so as not to damage its value," explains James.

"Confidentiality is a keyword in our dealings, and many businesses are sold before being offered to the open market. When they are made available, our strong marketing campaigns achieve optimum results."

Multi-Income Streams

When engaging with clients, GPS-Direct studies the bigger picture to provide a comprehensive service which often inevitably leads to avenues for additional income. Services covered include:

• Finance: Almost 100 per cent of clients require a commercial loan or mortgage. The company works closely with brokers and niche market lending sources to provide competitive forms which in turn yields lucrative extra income for GPS-Direct.
• Refinancing: Particularly interesting for business owners wishing to develop their business further or simply refinance, again providing valuable referral fees.
• Business/Property Redevelopment: Working with associated Chartered Surveyors, the company is often able to help owners achieve optimum results in their business objectives.
• Eco-Resources: Working with an associate pro-eco company, GPS-Direct is able to provide valuable additional services which guarantee savings throughout their businesses.
• Spanish Property & Business Investments: Sales of Spanish property has been part of the business for over 25 years. Franchisees are able to refer prospective purchasers to Head Office in return for substantial introduction fees.

Spain and Australia are the two countries of most interest to UK residents wishing to emigrate. Through GPS-Direct Head Office purchasers can buy holiday homes, investment packages or retirement homes direct from the developer. No fees are added to the developers' prices.

The Franchise Package

This includes a complete itinerary of equipment, business and marketing plans, company formation, complete installation of templates and administrative procedures with one-to-one training accompanied by a fully documented GPS-Direct Business Transfer Sales/Consultancy Manual and use of the company website.

Franchise territories are exclusive and available throughout the UK with the exception of the North East (Co. Durham and Northumbria), Cheshire & Manchester and Hampshire & Dorset regions which are already taken.

"GPS-Direct franchisees will be fully trained and be given excellent ongoing support," reports James. "They will probably come from a professional background and preferably have some sales skills. Successful franchisees will be hard working, self-motivated and diligent. Territories can be run from small offices and initially by one person, on a full time basis, plus good administrative back up.

"The franchise represents a potentially excellent investment opportunity for seriously minded professionals. The franchise fee as a complete package is available for a relatively modest figure. Following the start up period, the minimum projected turnover during the first year for each territory is set at £100,000 per annum. Individual total set up investment amounts may vary from region to region and according to individual aspirations.