Franchisee Testimonial
New to running a business, franchisees Tony and Sandra Peterson chose Card Line because they liked the product and after meeting MD Mike Crapper felt confident they would get the support they would need to get going in the business and start to make a profit very quickly.
Says Tony "Going into business for the first time is a daunting experience for anyone, especially after years of employment and being able to rely on a regular salary. It was a big decision made easier because Card Line ticked all the boxes. Mike Crapper has a no nonsense approach and we were able to speak to half a dozen franchisees before we signed up. We even spent half a day with a franchisee so that we could see the sharp end of the business and get a feel for what the job was really like before we made our decision.
"It's a relief not to have to do a daily commute into city centre Manchester and be able to organize my day so that I can spend more time with our young daughters. And there's no more office politics to deal with or having to get sign off from three levels of management before you can get anything done.
"We're very excited about what we've achieved in the franchise already and the possibilities for the future. There's lots of growth still left in the business and we've been able to make some fresh inroads within our territory selling cards to local hospital shops, a market the previous franchisee hadn't tapped into. And territory wide there is plenty of development yet to do with existing accounts as well as lots of opportunity to introduce Card Line at hundreds more retailers in our area."
From a background in retail sales management for the Co-op Group, Tony now knows what it's like to be on the other side of the counter, but now he's the one selling to the retailer. A useful insight into understanding what the customer wants and needs from a supplier and added to the experience of working in a finance department, this couple got off to a flying start.
"But," says Sandra, "It's all about focus and commitment to making the business a success. Our experience is useful but not critical. You've just got to get on with the job and make things happen. It's an exciting and rewarding challenge. To know that you're the one in the driving seat, earning a good living for your family is really gratifying. We're very pleased we made the change from being employed to owning our own business. Why work hard for someone else when you can work hard for you".
Tony & Sandra Peterson