Name: Craig Torrie

Company Name: Nxo Liverpool

Location: Liverpool

Length of time in operation: 3 years

Professional background before becoming a franchisee: 25 years in sales & marketing for a variety of blue chip and FMCG companies

Why did you become involved in franchising: I was redundant and couldn't think of any organisations that I wanted to work for who would employ me

Why did you choose this franchise business: It was relevant to my experience and I liked the people

How did you research the company before setting up: I didn't do a lot other than meet the key staff and speak to a couple of franchisees. I had met several potential Franchisors and this was the first one that felt right

How did the master franchise help you starting a business in the UK: There was lots of practical advice but the main thing was the moral support

Does the master franchise continue to help you on an ongoing basis: Yes; but the need is minimal

What difficulties did you face starting off: Coming to terms with the administration of the business and accepting it as a necessary evil.  The main difficulty however was adjusting to the fact that I was operating in a different environment and my experience had a be significantly adapted to be relevant

How did you overcome these difficulties: Persistence; long hours; outsourcing tasks that did not add value and the support of the Franchisor 

What advice would you give to others who have just started franchising or are looking for a franchise business in the UK:  Make sure you are going to enjoy what you are going to be doing on a day-to-day basis