Chris Muckell & Stuart McNeill - CHIPS Ashford
Why we chose franchising?
Chris: I'd always wanted to work for myself in a retail environment, and being an avid gamer, a video games store was the best fit for my interests. I wanted to be in business in something I know and enjoy. I knew that if I'd set up on my own as a solo site independent I would struggle to survive, so decided franchising was the best avenue to take as I could rely on support of the franchisors and their experience and buying power.
Stuart: I had been looking into having my own business for ages and had seen independent game stores come and go over the years, therefore I realised how tough it would be. I thought being in a franchise would give me the support I needed.
What we did before taking up franchising?
Chris: I worked as an Assistant Accountant for 3 years at P&O, prior to that I've worked as a buyer for a large hotel and also as a trainee manager for Sainsbury's.
Stuart: I travelled across Canada and went to university where I gained a degree in political science. I also currently work in Worlds End Tiles.
How we raised the finance:
Chris: As the Ashford franchise is a partnership, Stuart and I put our resources together to fund the franchise. My funds came from a recent property development that my partner Lynette and I recently sold. Also Stuart and I took a business loan under the Small Firms Loan Guarantee Scheme for the remaining balance.
The training and support we received from CHIPS:
Chris: We initially did two days work experience in Letchworth back in September. We later did two weeks training in Stockton and Hartlepool. Although on the face of things there is a lot of info to take in, everyone in CHIPS is very helpful and willing to offer help and advice at anytime.
When we opened we had Martin Gillson from head office with us for three days after opening to help us with any problems, but even after that everyone is just a phone call away.
The challenges we have faced:
Chris: The biggest challenge was the break-in we suffered 10 days after opening. There was a lot of damage to the shop due to the forced entry and as a result of the break-in we had a very limited level of stock. We did, however, receive a lot of publicity which at least told people we had opened.
Stuart: I agree with Chris the biggest challenge has been the break-in and going from employee to franchisee.
Our advice to someone thinking of buying their first franchise:
Chris: Make sure it is something that you enjoy. Speak to other franchisees and ask about their experiences. We spoke to a number of franchisees before we even considered travelling and approaching CHIPS.
Also if you are considering taking on a franchise as a partnership, make sure the partnership fits and you can rely on each other. I've known Stuart since school and despite the fact that he supports Arsenal I know I can rely on his decisions.
Stuart: My advice is to talk to other franchisees, there are lots of franchises out there so make sure you are really into video games and you know your stuff as you do get some tough questions from customers.
Our plans for the future:
Chris: Initially we plan to promote CHIPS Ashford in the area and make sure our customers leave happy and keep coming back.
I run CHIPS Ashford full time, with Stuart taking the reins at the weekend, but longer term we aim to take on a second franchise which Stuart will run full time.
Stuart: Is would like to open a second store.