The winner of Belvoir’s New Franchise of the Year 2012 award has revealed that being part of a franchise network is a key factor to his business success.
Simon Bell, who launched his Belvoir Telford franchise with his wife Sally in January 2011, previously worked in sales and marketing before looking at franchise opportunities.
From the start, Bell was clear about the key criteria for his new business, he said: “Firstly, it had to be a recognised brand. Secondly, it had to be in a growth market. Thirdly, it had to have the ability to generate capital with strong cash flow. And finally, it had to be something that could utilise my existing skills.
“I met several successful Belvoir franchise owners and realised buying into the Belvoir brand ticked all of these boxes. Our success is undoubtedly down to being part of a successful franchise. The benefits are many-fold; ongoing support, financial planning support and use of the Belvoir branding, which was absolutely fundamental. Importantly, too, was the training we were given – we knew nothing about lettings so we were taught everything. Being trained by experts at Central Office and having ongoing mentoring support when needed meant that we learnt best practice rather than bad habits.
“Being part of a franchise means that Sally and I can share ideas and learn from other franchise owners in the network. Their support has been critical as they have obviously been through launching a Belvoir business themselves. Their help and encouragement enabled us to have not only confidence but competence too.
“Winning Belvoir’s 2012 Gold award for New Franchise of the Year was fantastic and brilliant for our team. I am currently recruiting a fifth staff member and we are all proud to be working for such a successful organisation. Our vision for the future is very simple – we want to be the most admired and professional lettings specialist in eastern Shropshire.”
Dorian Gonsalves, CEO of Belvoir Lettings, added: “Simon’s entrepreneurial characteristics and Sally’s passion for customer service have seen their business become one of the most successful Belvoir offices launched in recent years. Breaking even after just five months, and securing over 150 properties in their first year of trading made this couple highly deserving winners of Belvoir’s New Franchise of the Year 2012. We wish them every success for the future.”
Published: 9 May 2012
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