Recognition Express franchisee continues to grow business

For franchise partner Stewart Green, business has never been better.

Stewart bought his first franchise, Kall Kwik, 16 years ago, after reaching a crossroads in his professional life. Running his own business had been a long-held desire for the prospective franchisee, and he decided to make the investment with parent company The Bardon Group in 2003.

The business owner explained how he had explored franchising in his 20’s but never felt financially ready. After years of career progression, Stewart was ready to take the plunge:

“By that stage, I was in a much better position financially to explore the options more seriously. The Kall Kwik franchise in Bury St Edmunds offered the perfect way to build my own business with the support of a renowned expert.”

The franchise gave Stewart the business opportunity he had always wanted, and he began to grow the franchise by extending its product portfolio to include web design and email marketing services, large format printing, and a marketing support proposition. After a few successful years of trading, Stewart was approached by the Bardon Group to see if he would be interested in developing another brand in Suffolk – B2B franchise Recognition Express.

“It was a natural fit. Many of our existing print customers had expressed an interest in promotional products, so we knew that we already had a keen potential audience and could see the scope to build both brands by offering a combination of both to existing and new customers.”

Stewart is now reaping the benefits of operating two franchises. Being able to harness the power of both the Kall Kwik and Recognition Express brands, the franchisee has developed a one-stop-shop for customers looking to build their brand. Over the last 16 years, both of Stewart’s businesses have seen year on year growth, despite the challenges posed by a recession and the current pandemic. The Bury St Edmonds business owner believes that the flexibility he offers his clients has played a key role in the franchisee’s continued success.

Managing director of the Bardon Group, Nigel Toplis, commented:

“Stewart’s story is an excellent example of how personal drive and determination, when combined with the training and support package that we offer, can deliver ongoing business growth. Stewart’s businesses are shining examples of the franchising model that we strive for.”