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“When we started the company, we spotted a niche in
the market for domestic and small commercial
installations, which was previously being serviced
by a ‘man in a van’ or occasionally by bigger
companies with very poor customer service,” he said.
“We developed a very strong customer service
strategy, which focused on professional presentation
at all levels from the surveys and proposals we drew
up to the contractor carrying out the work.
“The market has grown dramatically in the last four
years and we have marketed the company through
lifestyle exhibitions like the Ideal Home Show and
Concept for Living, which has stimulated more
growth.”
The franchise operation has been set up after
extensive research, including the development of two
pilot operations in Liverpool and Durham to
‘roadtest’ the offer.
Franchisees are expected to promote the business
through sales and marketing and carry out surveys,
develop designs and ensure health and safety issues
are addressed, but the work is carried out by
approved contractors.
Working with FDS North, Four Seasons has also
developed a comprehensive support and training
programme for new recruits, which covers induction
training and extensive support in the field.
“When we were developing the franchise offer, we
knew it was essential to get it right from the
beginning, which is why we contacted FDS North,”
said John.
“Tony Urwin, the Director of FDS, is incredibly
experienced in franchising and made sure we covered
every aspect of the franchise process in detail and
got it exactly right.
“It was a big investment for us in terms of time and
money but working with Tony has ensured we have
covered all the basics and I am confident the
franchise network will flourish.”
Tony Urwin believes Four Seasons has tapped into a
growing market and will see strong growth through
franchising.
“The company initially developed a strong offer
based on service and product knowledge which made
them a good candidate for franchising,” he said.
“They have also invested in the process and created
a unique franchise offer which is transferable and
easily teachable to the right, motivated individual,
which is essential to successful franchising.”
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