Just Loving Being A Fast-Food Franchisee

ic Wales:

Franchising in the UK was worth £10.8bn last year and for some is a sounder business alternative than going it alone.
According to the British Franchise Association in Wales, franchise businesses in 2007 had a total turnover of £510m.

The association argues that using the advantages of an established business model and brand tends to offer a lower risk alternative than creating a stand- alone venture

Huw Thomas is one such businessman. In 1995 he decided to take up a franchise with McDonald’s – one of the best-known franchised businesses in the world.

Mr Thomas now owns and operates two restaurants in Cardiff and Barry, which in 2007 saw combined sales exceed £2.45m as well as employing more than 110 people locally. He has found that running a franchised business offers significant benefits.

He said: ‘I grew up in Barry so I see myself as a local businessman working within my own community. Operating a franchise for McDonald’s means I enjoy the independence of running my own business, but I can also draw on a wealth of expertise and resources. I feel liberated to make my own decisions and can adapt to make the most of local opportunities.’

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