A Life-Changing Decision for Spenser
Ex teacher Spenser Lees explains why he made the life changing decision to open his own ChariSnack healthy snack distribution franchise. “I was looking for an opportunity to have a more flexible work pattern and also to be rewarded for how hard I actually worked”, he explains.
“Having to work at weekends and endless amounts of paperwork meant that I never felt my time was my own and family life always seemed to come second. ChariSnack has allowed me the freedom to make my own decisions in a business that I’m very comfortable with. I enjoy the fresh air, meeting people and the constant change in scenery, and, I’ve never felt fitter in my life! It’s an easy business to run with minimal administration and I find it very rewarding in many ways – not just financially. It was also great to find out I didn’t need any premises!”
Spenser is passionate about the healthy eating concept and enthuses about the delicious Charisnack range. “I had to go for a franchise that I could identify with and feel good about the products. Healthy eating snacks are very much in demand now and will be more so in the future and I can therefore look forward to a growing market and ever-increasing sales”.
He also takes comfort from the fact that all lines are supplied by Julian Graves and continues, “Charisnack is unique in that it is the only company that I could find which supplies healthy snacks directly into work places and there’s no shortage of willing customers! Employers love the service because they are helping to raise funds for a worthwhile cause as well as encouraging their staff to eat more healthily. Staff love it because they can buy their favourite snack without having to wait until their lunch break and I love it because I feel my shop window is always open – even when I’m on holiday!”
“You’re able to choose your own large territory to operate in and Charisnack actually sets-up your first 150 customers for you. You get off to a flying start and can then grow your business at your own pace. Looking after my customers has meant that I have enjoyed repeat income form the same customers, every week though the year.” 
Reflecting on the progress during his first year, Spenser puts down a large part of his success to the support he receives form ChariSnack. “My dedicated Support Manager gives me a call every week to pass on tips and best practices from around the network. He also advises on new innovations and corporate developments. The Company is always looking forward and implementing enhancements to the system. Within the last three months alone, we have seen some excellent new lines added to the range, an improved volume discount scheme and the introduction of a larger point-of-sale display unit – together they have really increased my product sales and profitability.”
Asked what plans he has for the second year of trading, Spenser replied, “To develop my ChariSnack business further! I now have just under 300 businesses as customers and have exceeded my original estimates but there’s scope within my territory to increase my customer base even more. I‘m now considering taking on someone else to get a second van on the road – I really am looking forward to this year and to seeing exactly how far I can take this business.”
