Unzè: 'Indian fashion is going to be big'

"Indian fashion is going to be big", insists Razia Hussain who opened her Unzè franchise in Sheffield last year. "Unzè is not a normal shoe shop, it is eye-catching and stocks shoes that anyone can wear."

Such is Razia's confidence in the business model she is already making plans for a second store. Unzè General Manager Khuram Saleem agrees: "The UK market for ladies' shoes is huge, especially for attractive shoes that women look good and feel good in - the very shoes that are the basis of the Unzè range. If the right products are available, they will always sell. We offer a vibrant range of high fashion footwear, bags and belts for evening, bridal and casual wear that appeals to all tastes. While our target customer is mainly between 15 and 40 years old, older ladies are frequent customers to our stores."

Unzè is the retail arm of Shalimar Shoes Ltd, a company established in 1989 by the Saleem family. Since the first franchised store opened in early 2005, Unzè has experienced extraordinary growth with a further eight stores opening in quick succession. The franchise model is built on the solid foundations of three company-owned stores in London and an established wholesale business. Franchise Consultant Paul Hague of Franchise Development Services, who has helped the company develop its franchise programme, confirms: "As the Unzè range is currently sold through some 700 independent UK retailers and 900 overseas, it's not hard to see that stand-alone specialist Unzè shops and concessions will be very successful, as indeed the existing shops have already proven to be."

College lecturer Razia's intimate knowledge of her local community has proven invaluable to the success of her Unzè franchise. Since opening the store in July 2005, the enthusiasm and praise from happy customers has given her confidence, encouragement and satisfaction. Growing up in London Razia knows the Saleem family very well and is a loyal customer. Coming from a family of entrepreneurs, Razia is fully confident with her new venture and feels assured that she has the backing of the head office. As the busy summer months approach Razia reflects: "This business is my pride and joy. I don't want to do anything else."

Unzè is looking for confident individuals like Razia capable of managing a team of staff, who possess a genuine desire to build and run their own business, and who can combine their drive and ambition with the ability to work as part of a team. The cost of the franchise varies depending upon location, but a minimum investment of £150,000 will be required.

Khuram clarifies: "We have developed a successful business model that does not require previous experience of shoes or retail. Our comprehensive training programme focuses on what works in building your own retail success." The company provides full training at the Head Office Training Centre, the training shop and in your own store, covering all aspects of the business. Once your prime location store has been fitted out with the distinctive Unzè branding, maximum local publicity will ensure that your business opens in style.

With the support of Unzè you can be assured that you will open your store with the right stock and will have access to newly updated ranges to meet the latest fashions. The brand is regularly featured in fashion magazines such as Vogue and Tatlers and you will benefit from growing brand power, a corporate website and national marketing campaigns. Unzè has also already opened its first international store in New York and further overseas expansion is planned.

Khuram sums up: "As an Unzè franchisee you will be running your own retail business, not working for a boss and not working for a salary. You will be the boss and the profits will be yours. Unlike a stand-alone business you will have the backing of the established and already successful Unzè brand."