Neil Chapman became an Agency Express franchisee in November 2012. Previously a Hackney Proprietor based in Oldham, Neil was ready for a new challenge and a change of direction.
Being self-employed for many years Neil knew of the uncertainties that starting a new business could bring. This is why a franchise opportunity appealed to him, because of the high levels of support and the increased rates of success.
"I was looking for a new venture and whilst selling my house I wondered who put the signs up for the estate agents and was there a specialised industry that dealt with this?"
Neil attended The British Franchise Exhibition in Manchester where he approached the Agency Express franchise team looking for his ideal business. After much investigation and spending further time discussing the franchise with the Agency Express, Neil seized the opportunity of owning a van based business.
"I had attended various Franchise Exhibitions and after a bit of research decided that this might be a road I could go down. I did try another company first, but when I spoke to Agency Express and met the staff I knew that this was the company I wanted to join. I made my mind up there and then to do just that."
After successfully completing a comprehensive training course at Agency Express HQ Neil was given further support to assist in the launch of his new business. This included a 3-day programme of visits to estate agents in his territory, enabling him to make first contact with potential customers.
"The training process was a good experience. It steered me in the right direction but then I learned even more out on the streets. The time spent calling on estate agents with the training team was valuable. It gave me a good insight into dealing with the face to face part of the business as I am not a natural salesman. However, I found that SignMaster3 the Agency Express online board management system basically did the selling for me anyway. Even today it keeps me ahead of the game."
Less than a year from the inception of his business Neil had established a solid base of customers, he had quickly achieved growth and a sustainable level of income.
"There have been many highlights but I think signing up my first self-generated customer would be at the top. It gave me a great confidence boost and enabled me to feel that I could push the business on from there."
Today Neil continues to thrive in his territory. He has built strong relationships with his clients and his second to none approach has safeguarded him a bright and busy future.
Venturing into the world of franchising at the age of 24 Riccardo Mudrak is among Agency Express’ youngest franchisees.
Following a 15-year career in the supply and maintenance of fitness equipment, Bert Bigaignon decided that it was time for a new challenge and a change in his work-life balance.
Previously a Human Resources Manager of 15 years Gemma Vettraino felt it was time for a complete change of direction.
Steve Macqueen runs his Agency Express franchise in Yeovil and Dorchester.
James Tipton's professional, approachable manner enabled him to win new business and his high standard of work safeguarded him a busy first year with Agency Express.
After extensive online investigation Alex Sunjich decided that the Agency Express franchise opportunity met all his requirements.
Peter Waters runs his Agency Express franchise in Reading and has developed a solid client base.
John Burke has grown his Agency Express business and moved from a single van operation to multiple vans and in 2016.
Previously a HGV driver of 18 years Phil found the transition to becoming an Agency Express franchisee a natural and progressive step.
Steve Warren has run his Agency Express franchise in Chelmsford since 2013.
After much research Paul Jenkinson choose the Agency Express franchise opportunity as the most suitable route to take.
A big factor was the relatively low start-up cost of the Agency Express franchise. However, the clincher for me was the people when I visited head office in Norwich. I felt a connection, everyone was very friendly and helpful but also professional. I thought to myself I could work with these people.Kevin Keeler, Agency Express Cheltenham and Gloucester
During the last two and a half years, the business has grown to a point where I’m working at full capacity with one van. I really enjoy the freedom of being able to choose the hours I work, and I particularly appreciate being able to work from home.John Burke, Agency Express Colchester
I looked at other franchise possibilities but Agency Express appealed to me because of its reputation and the support they offered.Paul Jenkinson, Agency Express North Lakes
Industry leading technology
Excellent earning potential
Comprehensive training & ongoing support