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Puddle Ducks was founded in 2001 by Jo Stone and
Tracy Townend, after the friends met at antenatal
classes.
The pair had their babies on the same day and both
Ella and Emma were the same weight.
“We both knew we wanted to take the children
swimming, but couldn’t find a class which was
suitable,” Jo said.
“At the same time, we both realised we wanted a
change of career to fit around our families.”
Jo, an IT project manager, and Tracy, a chemical
engineer, decided to develop the idea into a
business, training as Birthlight swimming
instructors and sharing childcare as they set up
classes.
The business grew dramatically and now employs 18
people and operates 30 classes in the area,
prompting the plan to expand through franchising.
“We knew we wanted to grow the business when our
younger children had started school full-time and
franchising seemed to be the best option,” said Jo.
“The market was there for us and we had already done
some groundwork, but working with FDS North
really pushed us forward.
“We feel we wouldn’t have been able to do it without
Tony Urwin because he helped us at every stage,
streamlining our processes and making sure we got
everything down on paper.
“Developing the franchise offer was also a massive
boost to our local business as so many of Tony’s
ideas benefited that operation too.
“Working with FDS represented a significant
financial commitment but it has more than paid for
itself in the development of the franchise network
and in the improvements to our core business.”
FDS managing director, Tony Urwin, said Jo and Tracy
had succeeded in creating such a successful business
because of their commitment and passion.
“Tracy and Jo tapped into a real need in the market
– not just for baby swimming lessons, but for
business franchises which fit around the needs of a
young family,” he said.
“Their understanding of this market has helped
create a business franchise model which other people
can recreate and most of all, enjoy, alongside their
family life.”
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