I had enjoyed working for myself and liked the retail environment, so began researching different viable business opportunities. I explored buy, sell and exchange franchises and CeX caught my eye because I have a keen interest in the franchise's seven main product lines: DVDs, video games, computing, electronics, mobile phones, vision and music CDs. I also liked the fact I would be able to utilise my 20 years of retail experience and would have the safety net of working within a franchise, which would make the move from selling groceries to entertainment and electrical goods easier.
After a meeting with CeX Director Hugh Man and a three-day assessment on the shop floor in an existing store I signed the Franchise Agreement. I launched my franchise in Enniskillen in mid-July last year and thanks to the brand's strong reputation my store has been busy from day one. By the end of my first year I hope to branch out into Southern Ireland and open a store there and expect the business to generate a weekly turnover of about £20,000.
In terms of support and training, I had five days in-store training before I launched and then had help for the first three weeks of business from a Support Manager and small team. The fact I am never completely on my own and can phone anyone in head office or my Support Manager for advice is comforting. I am really pleased with my decision to invest in the CeX brand and love interacting with the customers. In five years time I can definitely see myself maintaining a hands-on role as a visible presence on one of my CeX shop floors.