Married couple combine forces on new home-based business

Keen for a new challenge and no strangers to owning 
a business, power couple Nick Clement and Zoe Willis decided to sell off their lucrative mailing business and search for the perfect franchise that would utilise their skill set and combined experience.

Nick and Zoe knew they wanted to buy another franchise rather than starting from the ground up with an independent business. “It just makes more sense because of all the support that you get plus it gives you the chance to replicate a successful business model. Being part of a franchise gives you peace of mind that the hard work and risk of testing the business has already been done and combined with the right support network, buying into a franchise is easy – the hard part is finding the right one!” said Nick and Zoe.

Wishing to investigate as many options as possible, Nick & Zoe headed to The National Franchise Exhibition, so they could meet a variety of brands and get advice all under one roof. It was here they connected with Expense Reduction Analysts (ERA), a business consultancy offering strategic advice and practical methods which optimise supplier relationships. The couple knew this was the franchise for them.

Once the decision was made, the next step was to attend an intense three-week training course at ERA’s head office which was an essential factor in their future success. ERA’s head office team have been a part of Nick and Zoe’s journey every step of the way. Hands-on support and advice is always available from the directors, and across IT, sales, marketing, and business development.

Back home and with another three weeks of home-based training under their belt, the couple were on their way to running their very successful franchise. With Zoe’s head for analytics and Nick’s love for the sales side of things, the duo had the perfect combination of a winning team.

“Everyone involved within ERA is immensely helpful. From training officers to management, the franchise which offers incredible levels of dedication and support to its newest members. They work hard for us and we return that hard work by meeting with prospective franchise partners and sharing our story,” said Nick.

At ERA’s National Franchise Conference in July 2017, the couple won the prestigious ‘New Consultants of the Year’ award, having been nominated by their peers and judged by the UK Board of Directors.

Nick and Zoe believe one aspect of their success is making sure to ‘Enjoy the Journey’, a phrase often repeated with ERA franchisees and an essential part of the business ethos. Having a positive work-life balance is important to sustaining a long-term business model, as is feeling as though you are part of something special and fulfilling.

Nick and Zoe’s plans for the future never end. The couple are continuing to build their franchise and take on more projects. As their business grows, so does the ERA franchise as a whole and that’s always a good thing!

Find out more about upcoming exhibitions and book your free tickets to follow in Nick & Zoe’s footsteps.