Visiting the International Franchise Show at the London Excel Centre was a slightly different experience this April. It was the first time Those Who Can had attended as an official ‘Partner’.

The reason I went to the show was to meet franchisors face-to-face, hear their thoughts about the show and build rapport. This helps me communicate with our teacher network and support them with their franchise choices.

We were also there to seek out other franchises that complement teachers’ skills and interests.

Before going to the show I had spoken to several teachers about the prospect of franchising, and what this actually looks like compared with setting up your own business from scratch. I was delighted to meet some teachers pre-show and direct them on questions to ask and who to speak to.

On the morning of the show, I asked our franchisors what they thought were good questions for teachers to ask at any franchise show, here are a few responses:

Hannah from Boogie Beat Movement and Music

“We all offer slightly different franchise models and you need to find the right fit for you.

Some questions to consider could be:

• how soon can I be up and running
• where will my income come from – classes, nurseries, parties
• what support and training is provided
• what are the monthly fees back into the head office
• what marketing support do you receive”

Rachel Co-Founder of Pyjama Drama

“Happy franchisees are the ones who have bought into the business that is right for them so it’s important not to be afraid to ask things that possibly only apply to you.

We invite potential franchisees to talk to us about what makes them and their situation unique so we will get questions like:

• Can I bring my baby to training?
• Can I work one day a week at my old job?
• Am I able to grow my business steadily as my family grows?
• Can I observe other teachers before I decide to join?
• I have a contact in a chain of nurseries outside my territory, would I be able to offer them Pyjama Drama sessions?

It’s a cliché, but no question is a silly question and yes, we’ve had breastfeeding mums bring their little babies to training with them!”

Highlights Of The Show

This year I felt the show had more variation, food sectors seemed to dominate as usual, but it was refreshing to see a children’s franchise podium which was a first for the International Franchise Show. Many franchises we work with were there, and this section’s atmosphere was electric.

Stuart Healy CEO of ComputerXplorer’s said it was the best show he had ever been to and he also stressed the importance of planning, before the event he had booked appointments with key people and potential franchisees, meaning a highly productive use of his time.

Colin Murphy Director of Choice Home Tutoring didn’t attend this year’s event but has shared his past experiences

“Franchise Exhibitions provide Choice with a great opportunity to learn about all the latest developments with some of the UK’s top franchises, but also to catch up in person with our many contacts within the sector.

They’re great events and I’m always struck by the buzzing atmosphere and how encouraging it is to see so many people interested in franchising. It definitely feels like things have turned a corner after so many hard years and there’s probably never been a better time to get involved in franchising.”

Considering Franchising?

Franchising for teachers isn’t just about working with children, although this is an obvious fit, it is worth considering your hobbies and interests when choosing a franchise. 

Choosing a franchise that aligns with your hobby or interest can offer several advantages:

1. Passion and Motivation – When you’re passionate about the products or services your franchise offers, you’re more likely to stay motivated and committed to the business. Your enthusiasm can also be contagious, attracting customers who share your interests.
2. Knowledge and Expertise – If you’re already familiar with the hobby or interest related to the franchise, you likely have a good understanding of the market, customer preferences, and industry trends. This knowledge can give you a competitive edge and help you make informed business decisions.
3. Personal Satisfaction – Running a franchise related to your hobby can be personally fulfilling. You get to spend your time and energy on something you enjoy, which can lead to a greater sense of fulfilment and happiness in your work.
4. Networking Opportunities – Being involved in a franchise that aligns with your hobby can connect you with like-minded individuals, both within the franchise network and in the broader community. This can open up networking opportunities and potential collaborations that benefit your business.
5. Marketing Advantage – Your personal connection to the hobby or interest can be a valuable marketing tool. You can leverage your authenticity and passion in your marketing efforts, resonating with customers who appreciate your genuine enthusiasm.
6. Adaptability and Innovation – Your personal interest in the hobby can drive innovation within the franchise. You may come up with new ideas, products, or services that cater to the needs and desires of your fellow enthusiasts, helping your franchise stand out in the market.
7. Resilience in Challenges – When faced with challenges or setbacks, your passion for the hobby can provide the resilience needed to overcome obstacles. You’re more likely to persevere and find creative solutions when you’re deeply invested in the subject matter.

Overall, choosing a franchise that suits your hobby or interest can lead to a more fulfilling and successful entrepreneurial experience, combining your personal passions with your professional endeavours.

In conclusion, if you are seriously thinking about running your own business or starting a franchise after teaching you need to do your research. Find out about the realities of these options, and talk to people who have swapped teaching to run their own business or franchise. The more you know the better placed you are to make an informed decision.

Tessa Founder of MiniMe Mindfulness 

“Questions are an essential part of the fact finding process but listening to the way that others respond is critical! I believe that a franchisee/franchisor connection is a special one and not just a business transaction.

Questions about supporting your journey after the purchase and asking to speak to other franchisees who have been on the journey you are about to embark on can be powerful.

Training resources and expertise in the areas that you’ll need support are important too! Share your fears and hesitations as they may be unfounded.”

A final point to consider from Anne-Marie Martin Founder of diddi dance “A franchise is a partnership so you and the franchisor need to share the same outlook”.