Lettings franchise Belvoir has revealed it is targeting the South of England and Northern Ireland as part of its 2012 expansion plans.

“Belvoir currently has 142 offices nationwide and we plan to open 15 new franchises in 2012,” said Christopher Watkin (pictured), Head of Belvoir recruitment. “Since the news of Belvoir’s stock market flotation listing appeared in the national and trade press there has been a noticeable increase in enquiries from the South East and London – areas we specifically aim to target this year.

“All a potential franchise owner needs to succeed is drive, determination, enthusiasm and excellent communication skills, as Belvoir can provide the necessary training. Prior to starting with Belvoir just two per cent of our franchise owners had a property background and yet our top 25 per cent of franchise owners achieved an average turnover of £313,721.91 and our top 10 per cent of offices achieved an average turnover of £408,831.16. One of our offices turned over £397,924.95 in its third year of operating and the turnover record for our best office was in excess of £650,000.

“We have discovered that the things that really matter to potential franchise owners are the strength of the Belvoir brand and the level of support they will receive. They are also able to talk to other franchise owners and become part of the Belvoir family, receiving support and advice from people who have been in the same position.

“Lettings is a consistently growing market in the UK, and a Belvoir franchise can give franchise owners the opportunity to take advantage of a lucrative, recession-proof business with an award-winning brand. I think it gives out a very powerful message that we feel confident enough about the Belvoir brand to be able to challenge any potential business owners to not just take our word about the pros and cons of running a Belvoir franchise, but to pick up the telephone and ask any of our franchise owners for their honest opinion.

“Belvoir already has a strong presence in the Midlands and North West and we are actively targeting other areas in 2012 including Northern Ireland and the South of England.

“Throughout the year Belvoir will be running a series of free Discovery Seminars, which are designed as a stepping-stone for people who have expressed an initial interest in a lettings franchise, but don’t feel they have sufficient information, to commit to coming to central office for a full day in order to find out if a Belvoir franchise is the right opportunity for them.

“Belvoir also now as a presence on the Lloyds TSB franchise seminars and it is a testament to the strength of the Belvoir brand that we have been invited to take part in these. Throughout the year the Belvoir recruitment team will be visiting many major cities including Manchester, Birmingham, Leeds and London and we will also be attending many franchise shows.”

Published: 13 February 2012

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