CASE STUDY- Gareth Lippiatt, Managing Director, Sports Xtra Ltd

'The decision to franchise my business was not an easy one! I knew that I had developed a successful concept and business model that could be replicated across the UK, but developing a much larger network seemed a daunting and complex process. My research into franchising Sports Xtra lead me to assess several franchise consultants offering various packages and associated costs. However, of all the companies that I spoke to, by far the most impressive and knowledgable for me were FDS.

'Franchising can be a potential minefield and using the right consultants is absolutely imperative. Having developed Sports Xtra from a start-up six years ago, I've made countless regrettable decisions along the way! Choosing to work with FDS in developing my franchise was definitely one of my better ones. Not only did they consult with me on all the various systems that I needed to put into place, but each of the contacts they put me in touch to assist with my franchise development turned out to be a real find.

'However perhaps the most surprising but valuable aspect of their work was making me look at my own business in a totally different way. We considered systems that could be improved, new products that could be introduced and fresh ways to get the most out of staff. Paul Hague from FDS has not only helped me develop a franchise package that I am extremely proud of, he has even been the catalyst in improving my existing business too!'