Swisher franchise family cleans up in the West Country

All B-Environmental Swisher franchise owners and their staff are trained to the highest levels to enable them to deliver an unequalled service to their customers in an ever expanding industry. Fraser McKay speaks to Paul Miles, franchise owner for Swisher Bristol, Swisher Bath and Swisher Taunton

Wherever people gather, offensive smells and the germs associated with them can cause problems. Global brand B-Environmental Swisher works to eliminate the problems related to waste products, tobacco and smoke fumes, refuse and drains in a variety of places including hotels, pubs, kitchens, restaurants, public and private toilets, hospitals, offices, animal centres and on public transport.

B-Environmental Swisher franchise owners operate succesfully across the UK within a continously growing network. Among the company's franchise owners is Paul Miles, 28, who seven years ago wanted a change from his career as an electronic engineer to something with a more secure future. Joining forces with his brother-in-law, Anthony, they visited a franchise exhibition where they discovered the Swisher franchise opportunity, with who they have been enjoying great success across the West Country.

The Franchise Magazine: What was your business background and why did you pick the B-Environmental Swisher franchise?

Paul Miles: I had worked for 10 years as an electronic engineer but I could see that the world of repairing TVs didn't have much life in it.

My brother-in-law, Anthony, was also looking for a new career and his father suggested franchising was a way forward. We found the Swisher brand at a franchise exhibition and it seemed like something we could certainly do. We were looking for a geographically specific opportunity in Bristol and there was an opportunity to take on the existing local franchise.

How difficult was it to start out?

The training we received from the franchisor was very well structured and gave us a solid foundation to get on with our business. I work as the Managing Director, with Anthony taking on Service Manager duties. As we took over an existing franchise there was an amount of momentum already. We restructured and re-established the business locally and got on with the job.

Nowadays, new franchise owners get even more support: two weeks' induction covering all aspects of the brand, marketing and sales training, accounts, software and on-site training. A six-month mentoring programme also helps them on their way.

How has your business developed?

Running your own business takes a certain type of dedication but the rewards are clear. We started out with four of us on the team and now have six people operating throughout the South West. Health in the workplace legislation provides us with business opportunities and the premium service we can provide companies has seen our reputation grow across the region. In 2006, we bought the Swisher Taunton franchise and have now extended our contract with the parent company for another five years."

What business benefits does the Swisher brand bring you?

Swisher is part of the Environmental Biotech group, which produces some excellent hygiene and cleaning products and we use them throughout our contracts.

The brand is well known and respected in the industry and helps keep our six-vehicle fleet visible across the region.

What advice can you give to others thinking about becoming a franchise owner?

Committing to another five years with the franchise is proof that I see the business standing us in good stead for the foreseeable future. Like any business – especially one of your own – it comes with its headaches but it's enjoyable.

Anyone considering taking on a franchise must be sure to have the financial back up to manage through the first year of business while the company finds its feet. Too often I hear of people who have spent every penny on some franchise or another and not budgeted for first year operating costs. With Swisher, you get the support and advice from an experienced organisation you can rely on for a guide to help you through those sorts of pitfalls.