A Kleerly successful start
David Rowe
David is Optic-Kleer’s newest franchisee, having just completed his training and started trading. In his first 19 days he repaired 75 windscreens totalling £3787. David lives in the picturesque town of Chudleigh in Devon with his wife Carol and daughter Alexandra.
Why were you so keen to talk about your first month?
When I was researching the Franchise market before I made my purchase, I read lots of articles about businesses that lost money in their first year and only broke even in their second year of trading. Optic-Kleer is different – I started repairing windscreens on my first day and invoiced £3,787 in my first 19 days.
What makes Optic-Kleer different?
David Overton (Managing Director) has concession agreements in place with major supermarkets; so I was able to have a ready available market from day one.
What drew you to franchising?
I was made redundant in April 2016. I soon realised that being 55 years of age is not the best time to be seeking new employment. I knew that with the correct application I could run a successful business of my own.
Why did you choose Optic-Kleer in particular?
I had booked Optic-Kleer to fix both my own and my daughter’s car with Merv Myers from Torquay. As we chatted over a cup of coffee I discovered he too had been made redundant 5 years ago and had bought an Optic-Kleer franchise and that it had been extremely rewarding. One thing led to another and within weeks I was sat having an interview in Boston.
The interview was both relaxed and informative, highlighting the level of earnings achievable as an Optic-Kleer franchisee.
In what ways is your business flexible?
My working days are very flexible and allow me to manage my life on my terms. I like the ‘hands off approach linked with great support from David, Sarah and all the staff at head office’.
How has investing in a franchise changed your lifestyle?
It is still early days but I know I am far less stressed than at any time in my working career. This is because I have all the support I need; I also understand that if you provide a professional service with great customer care it is possible to make a very good living.
Has your work-life balance improved?
My work life balance has improved considerably already and I know I can look forward to the holidays I have always enjoyed, but on a far more regular basis!
Do you have plans to grow the business in the future?
I do plan to expand my business in the future but, as this is the very early stages of my franchise, my focus is getting all of the basics right so that all the future opportunities fall into place.
What advice would you give potential franchisees?
When buying a Franchise, it is important to look for a company with a proven track record. Optic-Kleer have been in business for 25 years and with just under 40 operators throughout the UK, I had plenty of successful franchisees to approach in order to get to an accurate and balanced view of the Business before I bought my own franchise.
