Parvez Bhatty, Leicester franchisee (pictured second from left, with (L-R) his General Managers Umesh Lad and Amanda Fernandes, plus Alfonso Valero and Carlos Perez of Canas Y Tapas
After 18 years in investment banking working as a technologist I was keen to find a new business venture where I could be my own boss and develop a multiple-unit enterprise.
I have had a keen interest in the UK food industry for some time and have been researching viable business opportunities. I soon realised that there was a gap in the market for authentic Spanish cuisine and realised I could capitalise on this, considering the number of Britons who holiday in Spain every year.
Cañas y Tapas appealed because it is unique, it is one of the first restaurant franchises to offer authentic Spanish food on an international scale. Its professionalism and proven track record in markets other than Spain confirmed my belief that it could be adapted and trialled in the UK market.
I launched my Leicester franchise in September and have had overwhelming success almost overnight. My success is due to the training, which prepared my staff for the launch and consumer demand. Cañas y Tapas sent us to Spain to learn the ropes in an existing restaurant. On top of this, I have also had ongoing support from head office so have never felt like I am completely on my own.
Initially my aim was to break even within the first three months of trading - I have already surpassed this goal and am now striving to generate the same level of weekly revenue as our competitors who also offer quality food at affordable prices such as Wagamama and Nando's, who take in between £25,00-£40,000 each week! In the near future I am looking to develop two more restaurants within my territory and build on the success of the pilot restaurant.