First it was the 'credit crunch', then the Recession, and now, the emergency budget announced by George Osbourne has outlined plans to reduce public spending and raise certain taxes like VAT, putting another strain on homes and businesses across Britain. There are some aspects of good news affecting small businesses in the budget too though, so it's not all bad news.
Starting a business now, therefore, means that the decision of which business sector and industry to operate in is now even more important. So, knowing that the industry that you start your own venture in is established, stable and forecasted to continue to grow is certainly a key attraction in these times.
The domestic cleaning market is therefore one of the most attractive sectors to start a business in today, thanks to the development of recognised national brands, such as Molly Maid, who have the 'lion's share' of the professional cleaning sector of this industry, which in total is worth around £3billion in the UK, and who estimate that around 10% of UK households are existing users or viable and realistic potential users of the domestic cleaning services they offer.
Although an established industry, it is still largely dominated by the 'cash in hand' one man/woman bands though the professional operators, led by Molly Maid, are becoming increasing utilised as their brand and reputation spreads. So, there are great opportunities for those who wish to operate under the proven business structure and branding of a market leader, through franchising.
Molly Maid, with its recognised branded vehicles and professional approach and appearance, has been operating in the UK since 1984 and their business system has been proven time and time again. The Molly Maid service provides high quality reliable domestic cleaning, operated by Franchise Owners who manage teams of maids within an exclusive area.
Pam Bader OBE is Chief Executive of Molly Maid UK Ltd. Pam was awarded an OBE in recognition of her services to training and she also became the first women to be elected Chair of the British Franchise Association in 1994 and is now on the Board of Directors.
Regarding the UK Marketplace, Pam confirms "There is enormous scope in the market for the right type of people. Businesses like Molly Maid are very reliable - they can't be replaced by technology and operate in a secure business sector with very high growth potential. They enjoy high consumer demand with steady repeat business. There are more and more women pursuing careers, people working in busy dual income households, young up and coming singles and recently retired seniors, all looking to have more time during the day which can be achieved through service businesses like Molly Maid."
Molly Maid is a management franchise which means Franchise Owners employ staff to carry out the maid service. Franchise Owners come from all walks of life although there are certain skills and attributes that will help a franchisee to succeed. Pam explains "We've found that a sales background can be an advantage but the strength of the Molly Maid brand avoids the need for a 'hard sell'. We believe that business experience, professional qualifications and academic achievement are less important than a capacity for hard work and determination to succeed."
Coupling the right skills and attributes with the right business in the right market sounds like a recipe for success, so what does a franchise owner actually do? Pam advises "A key requirement is to recruit staff. The Franchise Owner must then ensure that his or her employees are aware of their responsibilities and duties, and are properly trained and supported to fulfil them. To a large extent, the role of the Molly Maid Franchise Owner
No comments:
Post a Comment