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One of PAPERfix's first franchisees reveals how he built his business

Chris began his training with PAPERfix at the start of January and began trading mid February 2005. Here he talks candidly abouthis first eight months: \"At the beginning I was both nervous and excited; it was strange being scared of the unknown but really looking forward to it.\"

'My background in paper meant the training was less daunting for me than some, and it was great to be trained; on how to run and market a business, how to diagnose machine faults and fix problems. After training though when you have do it for real it's different, I've learnt more about the job by actually doing it and this hands on approach has meant that it's been very fast track, and reassuringly there is always Head Office technical or manual support'

'My first customers came from the launch marketing. They have given me good business and also they are providing future pipeline business as well of course ongoing repeat orders. That's OK but to generate my own prospects I initially found it daunting, but using the PAPERfix introductory package it helps me get over that awkward first couple of minutes with a new prospect.'

'I have built my client base up using the PAPERfix launch marketing and then following the tried and trusted techniques that I learnt on the training. Also spending time out with Ted Girtchen in the field has been inspirational and kept me on track. I am finding that it is often your existing customers with which you are able to build a relationship with, who recommend you to your next potential business client. After 8 months I have nearly 60 customers and around 150 prospects in the pipeline. My financial results are better than I projected.'

'Looking forward, I know I will need to recruit someone to do administration so that more of my time can be spent with customers. My satisfaction comes from having created customer relationships as a result of me really helping them. It is rewarding work- you fix their machines and give them good advice and they really make you very welcome. The challenges now are firstly when to recruit as I know I will find it hard to let go. Secondly it is now about breaking into bigger customers. I get more confident everyday and my knowledge is growing. I am just beginning to approach some of the bigger prospects.'

'In summary it is harder than I thought but far more rewarding.'

About PAPERfix

PAPERfix is the UK'S NO.1 Service Company for Binding, Laminating and Paper Handling Equipment.

PAPERfix Service Engineers, in their own territory, service paper handling equipment in office environments. At this time the opportunity for the sale of replacement/additional equipment and consumable supplies arises. The service agreements and supplies provide regular and recurring revenues.