Since launching his TaxAssist Accountants office-based franchise in October 2007 Glynn Harby has seen the benefits a shop-front provides. "I've found that the TaxAssist Accountants' high brand visibility created by their shop-front franchisees has meant that people already know about the company when I approach them," he explains. "People immediately recognise the brand, which helps me to attract new customers. I'm currently looking for a suitable site for my own shop-front."

A qualified accountant, Glynn used to own and run an accountancy practice in Harrogate and after relocating to County Durham with his family, he set up another practice there. "I had looked into joining TaxAssist Accountants while I was still living in Harrogate, however I was unable to as there was already a franchisee in the area," recalls Glynn. "When I moved to County Durham I found out that the area was still available to franchise so I decided to join.

"I found out about the TaxAssist Accountants franchise while reading The Franchise Magazine and although I looked at similar franchises I decided that this one was the best for me. The training it offered was done by an external trainer and seemed to be more in-depth and professional."

Prior to launching his franchise Glynn completed five weeks' training. He comments: "Even though I run my own accountants practice I have found the training to be very useful. I've also received a great deal of support from the TaxAssist Accountants' Support Centre in Norwich. They have a high level of expertise, which I know is only a phone call away when I need help."

Apart from looking for a shop-front site to move into, Glynn has further plans for his TaxAssist Accountants business. "I'm currently on target to meet my first year turnover and I've been doing so well that I'm looking for a business partner," he reveals. "As well as this I'm looking to recruit someone to do the bookkeeping and payroll to allow me to concentrate on building up my business further and to develop my team."

With his own business doing so well Glynn gets a lot of satisfaction from his ability to help other business owners: "I really enjoy the fact that my TaxAssist Accountants franchise enables me to meet small business owners and help them to develop and grow their businesses."

Text: Derin Ibrahim