A former IT specialist, Scott Mackenzie launched his Professional Car Cleaning (PCC) franchise in October and reports that he is already exceeding his targets. He describes his business experience so far as 'fantastic' and says that within a year he plans to have an extra couple of vehicles on the road and will be looking to expand his territory.

"I was fed up of being tied to a desk and dealing with loads of red tape," reveals Scott. "I've wanted to work for myself for some time and thought a franchise would be the best route because of the established format and additional support. Specifically, I was interested in something in the automotive sector - I've always liked cars, although so far I've never been able to afford a really nice one!"

Professional Car Cleaning was the first opportunity to catch Scott's eye, and he says that having visited one of the company's friendly Discovery Days he didn't look any further: "As far as I was concerned, PCC offered everything I wanted. Experience, expertise, support, and a brand new successful business in a growing marketplace."

When Scott launched, PCC had lined up a series of initial business contacts for him. PCC General Manager Adrian Stiehl accompanied him on his first few demonstrations, giving hands on support, making sure he presented his business correctly and showing him how to turn initial demonstrations into ongoing repeat business.

"The prospects ranged from computer companies to garden centres," Scott recalls. "Each was really impressed by the quality of the valet - there is a real 'Wow' factor. After that, it was up to me to follow up the visit and to keep in contact. Really, the service sells itself, but building up a regular customer base for the business is simply about persistence and being focused."

According to Scott, potential customers are generally impressed by the professional approach of PCC. "The livery of the vehicle is very striking and the uniform is smart and business-like. People are always intrigued to look inside the van. They particularly appreciate the fact that I can come to their premises at a time that is convenient and don't need to intrude on their time. The alternatives tend either to be a 'man and a bucket' or the hassle of having to book their cars into a valeting facility, leave it there and collect it when ready. Of course, I win every time on quality and convenience!"

PCC was launched at the beginning of 2006 and is a sister franchise to the highly successful ChipsAway International. The expanding network of PCC franchisees, which includes people from many different backgrounds, is gaining an excellent reputation within both the franchise and the automotive services industry, and has delivered flexibility, together with a better quality of life and financial reward to franchisees.

"I spoke to several PCC franchisees before I finally decided to take on a franchise myself," concludes Scott. "Without exception, they were enthusiastic and delighted with their new business. Of course, you have to put in the effort - what you get out of your business is a reflection of what you put in - but based on my first few months in business, I am confident that my PCC franchise will bring me all the benefits I expect from being my own boss!"

LOVE CARS?
So do we...and so do our customers

Clean up with Professional Car Cleaning from leading franchise group ChipsAway.

Demand for professional and reliable valeting services is higher than ever and PCC offers hard working franchisees the opportunity to earn up to £1,000 a week.

Operating from a smartly liveried, purpose-designed vehicle using top quality exclusive products, franchisees will benefit from the experience, high profile brand and customer base of its sister company, ChipsAway.