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Agency Express Van Franchise Case Study
Neil Chapman chose Agency Express as he was ready for a new challenge and a change of direction. Neil has built strong relationships with his clients and his second to none approach has safeguarded him a bright and busy future.
Agency Express Van Franchise Case Study
Franchise Information
  • BFA Membership StatusAward Winner
  • UK Years Established25 years
  • Current UK Coverage60%
  • Franchisee Support Staff10
  • Personal Investment Req.£14,250
  • Total Startup Cost£27,500
  • Territory-based business locationYes
  • Business to business servicesYes
  • Franchisee operates individuallyYes
Next Steps

Neil Chapman Joined Agency Express in November 2012

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.

Agency Express - Neil ChapmanBeing 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.

If Neil's story has interested you then find out more about the Agency Express franchise by clicking below

Youngest franchisee joined Agency Express in September 2020Youngest franchisee joined Agency Express in September 2020

Venturing into the world of franchising at the age of 24 Riccardo Mudrak is among Agency Express’ youngest franchisees.

Bert Bigaignon Launched his Agency Express Franchise in September 2018Bert Bigaignon Launched his Agency Express Franchise in September 2018

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.

Gemma Vettraino launched her Agency Express franchise in November 2017Gemma Vettraino launched her Agency Express franchise in November 2017

Previously a Human Resources Manager of 15 years Gemma Vettraino felt it was time for a complete change of direction.

Steve Macqueen Became an Agency Express Franchisee in January 2017Steve Macqueen Became an Agency Express Franchisee in January 2017

Steve Macqueen runs his Agency Express franchise in Yeovil and Dorchester.

James Tipton launched his Agency Express franchise in August 2016James Tipton launched his Agency Express franchise in August 2016

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.

Alex Sunjich Launched Agency Express Falkirk in August 2015Alex Sunjich Launched Agency Express Falkirk in August 2015

After extensive online investigation Alex Sunjich decided that the Agency Express franchise opportunity met all his requirements.

Peter Waters Became an Agency Express Franchisee in 2013Peter Waters Became an Agency Express Franchisee in 2013

Peter Waters runs his Agency Express franchise in Reading and has developed a solid client base.

John Burke has run a successful Agency Express franchise since 2004John Burke has run a successful Agency Express franchise since 2004

John Burke has grown his Agency Express business and moved from a single van operation to multiple vans and in 2016.

Phil Harrington has run a highly successful Agency Express franchise since 2007Phil Harrington has run a highly successful Agency Express franchise since 2007

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 a successful Agency Express franchise since 2013Steve Warren has run a successful Agency Express franchise since 2013

Steve Warren has run his Agency Express franchise in Chelmsford since 2013.

Paul Jenkinson joined Agency Express in February 2013Paul Jenkinson joined Agency Express in February 2013

After much research Paul Jenkinson choose the Agency Express franchise opportunity as the most suitable route to take.

What Our Franchisees Say

I felt confident in the early days of starting my franchise. The Agency Express training and support programme gave me the kick start I needed in getting out there and getting active.Phil Harrington, Agency Express Shropshire


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


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


Why Choose Us

Excellent earning potential

A low-cost, low-overhead business

Simple to operate

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