Become a multi-unit franchise owner with CeX

“I really enjoy being my own boss and was keen to invest in another area within the franchise market and replicate my success,” he explains. “I saw the CeX franchise opportunity advertised online and it seemed a logical fit with my existing businesses.”

Summary of Operation

Retailer of second-hand electronic and digital entertainment products. CeX trade in videogames, DVDs, mobile phones, digital electronics, computing, vision products and CDs.

Since launching his first CeX store in July 2008, Raf Ali has gone on to become an established multi-unit franchise owner, with stores located in Middlesbrough, South Shields and Washington.

With dreams to one day own a Porsche 911 and leave the daily running of his stores to experienced Managers, Raf understands the importance of hard work and is highly motivated to succeed.

“I work harder than ever but the benefit is that I am in control of my own destiny. It’s very rewarding to see my businesses grow and the development of my employees and their own career progression,” says Raf.

Before joining the CeX network, Raf owned a mobile phone franchise and eager to expand his business portfolio, he looked to the entertainment industry for inspiration.

CeX is an entertainment and electronic goods retailer that offers customers the opportunity to buy, sell or exchange second-hand goods from seven main product lines: DVDs, video games, computing, electronics, mobile phones, vision and music CDs.

Prior to launching his first store, Raf received comprehensive training and ongoing support from the CeX franchise team.

“I was lucky to be part of a new store opening,” he says. “I rolled up my sleeves and got involved in every aspect of the business, which I found invaluable.

“To open my first store I had a dedicated support team helping me, including an inspirational Franchise Manager and ongoing in-house support once my business was open, helping it to become quickly established.”

The CeX franchise package includes initial training and ongoing procedure updates, limited competition, stock and pricing advice from experts, ongoing support including intranet and business services, hands-on store identification, design and outfit, and a bespoke EPOS system designed specifically for the buying, selling and exchanging goods.

Raf is amazed at how far his business and the CeX brand has come since he first joined the franchise.
“When I opened my first store three years ago, the biggest challenge I faced was brand awareness,” reveals Raf. “People didn’t know us, having now opened my third store in the North East of England, it’s great because customers already know us.”

With over 140 stores worldwide, 128 of which are located throughout the UK and Ireland, CeX is quickly becoming one of the UK’s fastest growing and most successful buy, sell or exchange franchises. Raf has enjoyed every minute of being his own boss after becoming part of the CeX network and would recommend joining a franchise to others but advises that you should thoroughly research your prospects before committing.

“Understand what it takes to run your own business, and the demands it will place on you, your friends and family,” he adds. “Do your research, understand the franchise you are interested in and talk to their franchise owners.”

Initial Investment Required

From £250,000 + VAT (£60,000 + capital plus the ability to raise the balance (total investment of £200,000 to £250,000 required, of which most will go towards stock and shop fitting).