How did I get into franchising? I was married in March last year, and decided on my mini honeymoon that I needed a career change. I was an accountant who hated being stuck in an office. One of my friends suggested I do what I had always wanted and buy a business. Four weeks later I had resigned and bought a business and The Chocolate Room, Queenscliff was born.
What was the hardest part of starting up? We had a lot of issues with the banks as most franchisees do but I would give any prospective business owner the same advice and that is to persevere. Don’t give up – if there is a will there is a way.
What are the benefits of being a franchisee? To say it has been hard work and tiring is an understatement but it is also very satisfying. I see the rewards for my hard work and I will reap the financial rewards one day. Jim and his assistants have been very supportive. The Chocolate Room is totally different to the other franchises we inquired about; we don’t have to pay huge franchise costs each month.
How have I made my mark in the business? I have been fanatical about serving high quality coffee as this can make or break you in a small beachside town and the customer service we provide I believe is second to none. It’s not rocket science, just good old fashioned customer service. We receive daily compliments on our service, our coffee and our stunning chocolates and I know that I have made the right decision to buy this business.
How do I balance work and family time? I am lucky to have a very supportive husband who backs me 100 per cent and who works in the shop on his days off and we are thriving on helping our business grow each day.