In the last six months, Poolwerx received 70 per cent more enquiries from potential franchise partners than during the same period last year. And, according to COO Nic Brill, many have big ambitions for their business.
“Ten years ago, 100 per cent of franchise partners were a mobile-only operation,” he says. “Today, half of our new recruits are jumping straight into retail, with multiple vans, sometimes even multiple retail hubs.”
Shane Doyle (pictured) launched his Bendigo franchise with three service vehicles and a retail store.
“We saw an opportunity to attract two different types of customer – and generate two income streams,” he says. “The mobile team services those who aren’t interested in looking after their pool. They just want a qualified person to visit regularly and maintain it for them. The retail store caters for people who like to look after the water themselves. They can bring a water sample in for testing, get advice and buy all the chemicals, pumps and filtration systems they need.”
A flying start
Eight months in, Doyle already employs a six-strong team.
“We did a lot of homework and due diligence, so we knew the opportunity was there. We just had to make the most of it,” he says. “I made sure the store looked fantastic, and allocated part of my initial budget to a really strong marketing campaign that would let people know we’re in town. Having both the service vehicles and the store also helped give us presence in the community.”
He also credits presentation for cementing his success.
“How our vehicles and staff look is incredibly important, and I believe communication is the most important skill,” he says. “You have to be personable, of course, but also able to explain quite technical concepts clearly then deliver on what you say. I’m confident we can train people to do an exceptional job so I look for those with the right qualities and attitude who are committed to building a good culture.”
