Recognition Express franchisee set for ultimate turnover

For franchisee Hugh O’Neil, the decision to invest in Recognition Express is really paying off.

In 2010, Hugh O’Neil was made redundant from his 20-year career with a contract caterer. The recession was in full swing and the opportunities on the job market were feeling few and far between.

However, Hugh saw an opportunity to cash in on selling branded clothing through B2B franchise Recognition Express. From his extensive experience in the catering industry, he knew that workwear was always in demand and offered long-term business potential. Fast forward 20 years and Hugh is now set to reach his ultimate turnover target by 2022.

With his business growing at a steady pace, Hugh secured work with a couple of international conference organisers knowing that the conference sector had begun to boom. The franchisee’s forecast after just nine years of trading was an impressive £240,000, representing 37% business growth.

Some Recognition Express franchisees take on industrial units and teams of staff to handle their production, however, Hugh chose to outsource to free him up to focus on managing clients. Hugh works in a business partnership with wife Mary, and between them they make sure clients are happy to generate repeat custom.

According to Hugh, the flexibility, scalability and durability of the Recognition Express business model sets it apart from other franchise opportunities. When he joined the franchise, Hugh completed a full week of in-depth training at Recognition Express HQ which was followed by one-to-one support at his own premises.

“In the early days, I really appreciated the level of support from head office,” he explains. “Today, the support is just as valuable, but the emphasis has changed, I know the ropes, and I have learnt so much about how to nurture clients.”

From his experience, Hugh believes that franchising is a solid and lucrative option for people who are willing to follow the franchisor’s proven model, but warns that franchisees must do their homework before choosing a franchise:

“You need to be absolutely sure that the franchise you’re investing in is credible, that the model is robust, and that you’ll have long-term support and guidance. If you have any doubts, keep looking. There are lots of franchise opportunities out there, so make sure you invest in the one that is best for you.”