Greeting card distribution franchise Card Connection is aiming to attract ex-Civil Servants as franchise owners.

Andrew Cutler, Sales and Franchise Director of Card Connection, said: “Despite the downturn, the franchise industry has seen continued growth and in the UK the sector is now estimated to be worth more than £11 billion. However, one of the main challenges facing franchise companies today is recruiting quality franchise owners. We believe civil servants could be ideally placed to help fulfil this need. Management skills combined with the experience to interact with a diverse group of stakeholders and an ability to get the job done within boundaries of a public sector environment will be valuable when it comes to running a serious franchise operation.

“With many government departments facing cuts, Civil Servants may be re-evaluating their career options. For those looking at starting their own business, franchising is worthy of consideration as many provide the opportunity to earn an income from day one. In addition, marketing and training is provided, giving the flexibility of self-employment with the support of an established company in the background, which therefore reduces the risk of start-up significantly.

“The recent increase in the availability of management franchises also now offers an exiting opportunity for ex-Civil Servants. As well as the chance to take advantage of corporate experience putting skills such as delegation, people management, planning, budgeting organisation, time management, communication, customer facing and negotiation skills into play, larger management franchises take advantage of economies of scale and franchise owners can capitalise on exponential profit margins as the business grows.”

Card Connection has limited UK vacancies for those who are keen to run an expanding business. Successful candidates would ideally have some management experience as, once established, they would be expected to employ a small team, operate a warehouse and have several liveried vans on the road.

Due to the franchise networks in the UK and Ireland being complete, the available opportunities now consist of acquiring an already-established territory opportunities now consist of acquiring an already established territory from an existing franchise owner. These vary in price according to their level of development, but start at £20,000 plus stock.

Published: 2 December 2010

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