Becky Garrett hasn’t looked back since embarking on a Pebbles Franchise in 2006. In just 4 weeks Becky welcomed her first customers to her franchise in Newbury and her client base is continuing to expand. Select Your Franchise wanted to find out more…
Becky, what did you do before taking on a Franchise?
“I had a long career in Marketing and worked for a number of large, multinational companies including the Press Association in London and Ericsson UK in Newbury. I also traveled, lived and worked in New Zealand from 2003-2005. After returning home, I held the position of Marketing Manager for a smaller, local IT & Telecommunications company. I left this role in 2006 after deciding to accept the opportunity to become a Pebbles franchisee, and the rest is history!”
Why a Franchise?
“I felt that starting a franchise was the best option for me as I could be in charge of my own business but at the same time, I could have a helping hand to get started and ongoing support moving forward. Franchising took away a large element of risk because the level of investment was considerably less than starting a business from scratch. Furthermore, Pebbles Ltd had a proven business, a model that worked and a footprint in the market.”
Why did you decide on a Pebbles Franchise?
“My decision was also based on the reputation of Pebbles Ltd. I had already had some exposure to their work and knew about them prior to the franchise opportunity arising. I knew that Pebbles Ltd had excellent, well respected photographers with many years of experience and I knew some existing customers who spoke very highly about them.”
What are the benefits of Franchising?
“Primarily, the main benefit is that you can be in charge of your business but be part of something bigger. This means that you get plenty of help to get started, as well as ongoing support to enable your business to be successful. And, because you are operating your business based on a model that already exists and works, the chances of success are considerably more in your favor.” “As a franchise of Pebbles Ltd, I was provided with everything I needed to hit the ground running, including camera equipment, business manuals, stationary and promotional material amongst other things. Similarly, Pebbles Ltd offered me all the training I needed and enabled me to gain practical experience without having to go to college.”
What is your typical day like?
“Well, no day is ever the same! I find that there is always something to do; from going out on a photo shoot and meeting clients, to confirming bookings, processing orders, checking photos, sending letters…the list goes on! I am also always looking for new opportunities to showcase the business (in shopping centre, at local events or market stalls for example) and this requires a good level of planning.”
“Additionally, because it is my business, I have to keep up with my accounts and general business administration to make sure everything is up to date.”
An example of Becky's superb work is pictured right.
What advice would you give to future Pebbles Franchisees?
“I can only pass on advice based on my own experience so far – and being a franchise of Pebbles Ltd has honestly been the best decision I’ve ever made. Of course, franchising isn’t for everyone but it’s a good way to start a business with reduced risk. I really like being part of the Pebbles family where we all help each other and share ideas for the benefit of everyone. Having someone at the end of phone to give you help, advice, assistance and ideas is extremely valuable and not something you would easily get if you started business entirely on your own.”
“Like any big decision, it’s important to think it through carefully. Make sure that the franchise model is the route you want to take and make sure you involve your partner/family in your decision – there will be times when you need their support too.”
What has been your greatest achievement so far?
“I was really proud of how quickly my Pebbles Franchise got off the ground – within 4 weeks of starting the business I had my first customers. This confirmed in my mind that Pebbles Newbury had something new to offer and a solid proposition moving forward.” “I can honestly say that every time I show mums and dads their pictures, I feel I have achieved something special. Just to see the smiles on their faces is a fantastic reward.”
What are your plans for the future?
“Well, my Pebbles Franchise is still in its first year of operating so at the moment, I am working towards maintaining very positive levels of business and promoting the business locally through events, shopping centre and markets.”
“From a longer term perspective, I hope that some of my clients will come back when considering having more photos done and that my business maintains a great reputation for both outstanding photos and levels of service. Furthermore, if the business continues to grow, there may come a time when I am able to expand and bring additional people on board.”
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