After researching a number of cost reduction franchises, Lorraine Gannon decided that Expense Reduction Analysts (ERA) was the right business for her.

Gannon joined ERA in 2011, following an 18-year career as a qualified accountant. Her last role before joining ERA was Chief Accountant for a government agency and before that, Finance Director and co-worker of a chain of gastro pubs.

When Gannon decided to pursue self-employment she found the ERA model was an ideal fit, as it enabled her to fit her business around her family life. Gannon said: “My personal objective is to enjoy a nice family life, with holidays and quality time together, and pay my mortgage off along the way. Being my own boss allows me to choose when to work hard and when to take my foot off the gas.”

Commenting on why she chose an ERA franchise, Gannon said: “I had considered other cost reduction franchises, but they didn’t offer the expertise of a supportive network of franchise owners. I didn’t want to be confined to just one or two categories, or walk away from business because I didn’t have the relevant skills. ERA helps me to assist my clients in all areas of their business. It is the access to all of this knowledge that promises me a thriving business. ERA offers that opportunity, with many experts spanning multiple cost areas.”

Gannon successfully signed her first client just one week after completing the academy training course. She added: “The training sets you up with the confidence and skills to go out there and do it, and then you perfect your craft. There is plenty of support to help you. The post training guidance from the Academy Business Manager and the rest of the support hub was great, the guys were always on hand to offer advice and even accompany me to meetings.”

For anyone thinking about buying their first franchise, Gannon said: “Trust your instinct. My due diligence in searching through franchise choices led me to make the right decision, but eventually there is a leap of faith to be made. Throw yourself at it; don’t let a moment or opportunity pass you by.”

Published: 4 January 2013

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