John Scholey, Wharfe Valley

Working as a Sales Director for a housing company I was living the corporate lifestyle, but it wasn't for me and I wanted to build something for myself. I began looking into franchising and I came across the ChipsAway franchise opportunity while reading The Franchise Magazine.

I had been a customer of ChipsAway so I knew a bit about the company, however I was really impressed by the level of support the company offers and that it is a member of the British Franchise Association. The head office team answered all my questions and I liked the fact that I would be able to make use of my sales and marketing experience.

I received three weeks of very thorough training and when I launched my business in March a ChipsAway Business Development Manager came up to help me with my opening. The first promotion day was excellent - I got a month's work booked on that one day!

It's great to be working for myself and not having a boss breathing down my neck. I really enjoy the customer contact and it feels good to be appreciated for what you do. In my first year I'm aiming to achieve a turnover of £70,000 and although I've only just launched my business I've got future plans to expand, which there is definitely potential for in my area.