SA Franchise Brands welcomes Robbie Meyer, Franchisee for Silverline Group for Gauteng to share some aspects on being a Franchisee.
What questions should prospective franchisees ask themselves before buying a franchise?
1. Is this really my field of expertise and something that I want to do over a long period?
2. What is the return on capital employed on effort and on risk?
3. Is my business resalable?
4. How relevant is this business and is it sustainable in the long term?
What made you decide to buy a franchise?
I am an experienced building contractor and construction is what I do. I returned to South Africa from the USA where I worked on large projects and wanted to continue in the construction industry but for my own account. Silverline Group offered me the opportunity to become one of their first franchisees and I immediately took up the challenge. To date it has proved to be a great investment and I am very optimistic and excited about the future with Silverline Group.
How important is it to investigate a franchise and what criteria did you use?
It is extremely important as you can easily buy into something that does not suit you or your lifestyle. There are also other pitfalls to be wary of as some franchisors do not deliver what they promise and it can cost you financially.
What made you buy a Silverline Group franchise?
I chose to buy a Silverline Group franchise because it is a unique profitable business offering. It is a recognised brand with a national footprint and I could associate myself with Silverline Group. Silverline Group delivers on its promises to franchisees and my business grows exponentially each year. I make good margins due to the national supplier deals that head office negotiates on my behalf and with the support of the Silverline Group head office; I have not yet had a disappointed client.
What training and support does the Franchisor provide you with?
Silverline Group training and support is fantastic. Some franchisees needs more than others but overall it ranges from securing construction contracts on behalf of franchisees, to business training, to construction training. Marketing is a key issue as building contractors are generally not marketers and Silverline Group head office has a marketing division taking care of marketing initiatives, material, design and editorials.
Silverline Group has a great website with a franchisee portal where franchisees receive all our information, updated documentation and manuals.
What advice would you give to prospective franchisees?
Do something that you are passionate about and suits your lifestyle.
