From low point to a global high-flyer
REDUNDANCY can be a great chance to take charge of your own future.
When Steve Fryer was made redundant from his job in air traffic control, he invested in a Global Travel Group travel agency franchise.
Steve, now trading as Ingleby Travel, says: ‘I am running my own business, so I know my future is in my own hands.
‘My hard work benefits me and my family directly, but also brings the reward of making customers happy. After just nine months it is set to break even, and I am getting return business.’
Steve, 40, who lives in Ingle by Barwick, Yorkshire, says: ‘ It’s easier to set up a travel agency with a franchise because the franchisor helps you get started.’
Global Travel Group managing director Andy Stark says: ‘If you have a genuine interest in holidays and travel, we’ll help you start your own agency, and you will be able to determine your own destiny.’ Investment is £14,995. Andy Nelson, 49, who invested in the Go-Kart Party franchise after redundancy, says: ‘A franchise is a ready-made way into business, but its success is down to you.’ Go-Kart Party managing director Gerry Ussher says: ‘We welcome people after redundancy, as long as they are not just looking for a replacement job. Running a business requires a change of mindset.’ Investment starts at £8,000.
At £ 40,000 driver recruitment franchise Driver hire, Bury St Edmunds and Ipswich franchisee George Griffiths, 53, says: ‘I was an accountant in motor and healthcare organisations, but after twice being made redundant I decided to start a Driver hire franchise. My communication, commercial and financial skills transferred well to a management franchise such as this.’