CeX:
The Market is Huge

Capitalising on people's hunger for new forms of technological entertainment through the buying and selling of second-hand products, CeX talks to Rachel Spaul.

There is no doubt that gadget and gaming enthusiasts continue to crave new technology, with the emergence each year of improved gaming consoles; more advanced mobile phones that allow you to surf the net, listen to the radio, even watch television; and of course the ipod, which has exceeded 30 million units* since its launch in 2001.

An established brand with 20 company-owned stores in England and Wales and a loyal customer base, CeX is expanding its second-hand buy and sell entertainment network through franchising. 'The market potential is huge,' declares Franchise Director Hugh Man.

Kasim Ali worked as a CeX Stock Control Manager for seven years before becoming the first franchisee. Having witnessed the growth of the company from the inside, he was impressed by the durability of the CeX model to withstand a downturn in the economy.

'The business model is virtually recession-proof,' Kasim endorses. 'With CeX's range of complementary products we are able to offer our customers a unique one-stop service where they can trade in their game console for a different model or part exchange it towards a laptop, or a mobile phone for example. In addition, every product we stock traditionally has a cyclical pattern. The beauty of CeX is that second-hand goods are totally supply and demand driven, which smoothes out the traditional pattern of new products.'

Through a high-tech website, customers can check real-time product availability or obtain an estimate for an items exchange. Each store has access to a customer 0845 number direct to the head office call centre and a sophisticated EPOS system catered to selling second-hand products with automated pricing updates. 'The CeX website works 24 hours a day for me and lists the prices and products I have in stock,' Kasim explains. 'The CeX call centre means that I don't have to take every customer query, which saves me time and money too.'

CeX is looking for individuals who can finance around £130,000, and who share the company's enthusiasm and vision. 'While an interest in the products we sell and retail experience would be an advantage, they are not essential,' Hugh reassures. 'We provide full initial and ongoing training in the operation of the business, IT, customer care skills, buying and selling, etc. Franchisees will also benefit from hands-on head office support in marketing, IT, product and general business guidance.'

Kasim adds: 'If I've needed anything, CeX has been there to either advise or provide. I would recommend this franchise to others - I'm my own boss and in control of my own destiny, but with the reassurance that CeX are there when I need help. I'm looking to obtain Area Developer rights and open a second store.'

CeX is a funky, energetic and enthusiastic company with a genuine passion for all things 'gadgety'. If you share CeX's passion and enthusiasm call Hugh Man today.

Exchange Your Life Today...

• 20 successful stores
• 12+ years' experience
• Recession-proof sector
• Huge potential market

We're an energetic and enthusiastic retail brand seeking like-minded individuals keen to make substantial profits from the buying and selling of quality second-hand products. You only need look at the interest, market penetration, growth and continuous innovation in our 20 stores to see that the sky really is the limit with this opportunity - a business that works when the economy is booming and even better when it is less buoyant.

The market potential is huge. The UK has more mobile phones than people, with customers upgrading yearly. The range of DVD movies has grown as has the overall market for movie collecting. The video game industry continues to grow rapidly.

For an investment of around £130,000 you'll become part of an established and proven business model with benefits including:

• High margins
• Initial training & ongoing procedure updates
• Limited competition
• Stock and pricing advice from experts
• Ongoing support including intranet & web services
• Hands-on store identification, design & fit out
• Bespoke EPOS designed especially for buying, selling & exchanging goods
  Article published on: 22nd Dec 2005