Case Study - Screen Rescue
Stevenage
"Hi, I'm Keith,
Screen Rescue Stevenage franchisee"
"Welcome to my Q&A Spotlight!"
"I live in the heart of Stevenage with my wife, two four-legged friends and our parakeet, and operate in all SG postcodes. Here, you'll learn more about the steps I took to leave my 30-year taxi job behind to become a franchisee - I just couldn't wait to start my own Screen Rescue business!"
How did you hear about Screen Rescue?
I’d been looking at a few franchise opportunities for about six months and was drawn to running something automotive because I do love motors. I was impressed with Screen Rescue, who responded quickly to my enquiry via Franchise UK and then stayed in touch with regular contact.
Were there any challenges you had to face pre-launch?
Everything was in place and ready for me to onboard back in March on what became the first 2020 lockdown day! Luckily, as the world came to a standstill I was able to jump back in my old taxi during those initial strange months.
What other support was given in the second and third lockdowns?
Before flexi-furlough came in, my clients were serviced by a sister territory Business Manager – it was unprecedented support and just one of the many benefits of operating next to a sister territory. I also snapped up more training on offer.
You’d even visited the British & International Franchise Exhibition at Olympia in 2020, was this helpful?
To be honest, I was a little disappointed with the hand-out information available, and came away with nothing more than what you see on websites. The exhibitors were knowledgeable, but I felt some were pushy, on a hard sell.
What support have you received from the franchisors?
Aside from my day-to-day support, which is just as good as they say, Amanda helped switch the bank funding I'd raised with my business plan over to a Bounce Back loan. This gave me better repayment terms with a lower APR, helping my cashflow.
What are you looking forwards to achieving the most in your franchise?
I'm looking forward to building a stable business and earning a good reputation off my own back for the work I do for my clients. And like us all, I want to earn a decent income! I know with my hard work and Screen Rescue's help, this will happen.
What attracted you to a Screen Rescue franchise opportunity?
From the outset I was impressed with the information available – with the openness of all the data I was provided. The level of daily support being offered was also exceptional and very important to me. There was no hard sell, which I liked, so I felt under no pressure - it was my choice to go ahead.
Why are you going into business now, at this chapter in your life?
After 30 years as a taxi driver, I needed a new challenge and still feel very comfortable within the motor industry. I'd always wanted to run my own business, so my franchise is my career now until I retire.
What would you say to those thinking about investing in a franchise?
When purchasing a franchise, make sure you have the support of the franchisors and they have daily resources to help you, because starting any business can be scary at first. I've been guided every step of the way and wish I'd done this sooner!