What do you look for in a franchisee?

by Catherine Woods - Tuesday, 3rd June 2008 -

Molly Maid chief executive Pam Bader is clear on what she looks for in a franchisee: good presentation, drive and emotion.

Bader heads up the domestic services franchise she and her husband introduced to the UK in 1985. The business now turns over almost £12m and has 68 franchise owners, many of whom have been with the company for more than twenty years.

“The first thing I think of is when looking for a franchisee is would I buy the Molly Maid service from that person. They have to have a burning desire to very successful, they have to be honest and straight, and hardworking,” Bader says.

“It is emotional to run your own business so the business you go into must be one you’re going to love and enjoy. You’re scared and frightened but it’s also thrilling and exciting. If you don’t feel those emotions, you’re not the right person for us.”

The relationship Bader has with the franchisees, and also the relationship they have with each other, is very important. She says it has to be worked on from the first interview. “You build up a huge family,” Bader says, “and people do care for each other. They all want everyone to be successful.”

There’s plenty of room in the UK market for Molly Maid to grow, according to Bader, who believes there are 100 additional areas that could do with a franchise. “There are fantastic areas still available down along the South Coast and around the M25," Bader says.

"We’re looking for people who are suitable to join the company and I think there are a lot of people out there who want to take charge of their financial destiny and who want to work in a franchise.”

Picture source

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