Clothes alterations and repairs franchise, The Zip Yard has unveiled its first franchise in England. Already established in Ireland and Wales, The Zip Yard in Altrincham, was launched by former driving instructor Richard McConnell. Originally from Ireland, McConnell moved to Altrincham two years ago to be with his wife Marie, who works as a nanny and is expecting the couple’s first child next month.

He said: “I gave my future a lot of thought. We felt the time was right to seize the moment and invest in a reliable business with potential for growth. Buying a franchise appealed to us because you can combine the best of both worlds – being your own boss with the benefit of a proven business model with ongoing support and advice from head office.

“It was exciting opening the first Zip Yard centre in England and, if it proves to be a success in Altrincham, we will open branches in prime retail locations throughout South Manchester.”

To mark the opening of their new business, the McConnell’s want to encourage local schools, organisations and businesses to hold a sponsored ‘Zip-It’ silence to raise money for Children’s Adventure Farm Trust that provides holidays for disabled children aged from four to 14 and their carers.

“We look forward to getting more involved with the local community and the Zip-It challenge will be the first of many fund raising activities I plan to organise,” added McConnell.

Published: 14 November 2011

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