'Match made in matrimony'

After 10 years of marriage, Alex and Karen Sturgess decided to form another partnership when they became Cash Generator franchise owners.

The couple opened their Cash Generator store in Northampton together in February 2009. They moved their family from rural Devon, where Alex used to own a roofing company. Before becoming a Cash Generator franchise owner, Alex was also a lecturer.

Nearly 18 months on and the couple are already looking to expand their portfolio of stores, with the potential for a further three stores in the next five years.

Alex Sturgess says: "We were attracted to the Cash Generator buy, sell and loan concept as it allowed us to become our own bosses with the guidance and backing of a nationally recognised retail chain."

Alex and Karen have already made a big impact with their first store, named New Store of the Year for 2010. Priding themselves on their excellent customer service, Alex and Karen also scooped an award for the best mystery shopper results.