Why franchising works for me: Part 2

Continuing our two-part mini-series, Winkworth directors reveal why franchising has proved successful for them. This week: Narendra Gandhi looks back on nearly a decade of successful franchising. He heads-up both the Ealing & Acton office and Chiswick office, south west London. He reveals insights, ideas and inspiration for those who are thinking about opening their first franchise. Here is his story:

“It is nearly ten years, since I bought into the Winkworth business at Ealing and Acton. Previously, I had worked at Barnard Marcus, HBOS and Your Move. I had reached senior levels in the corporate world, but I never felt totally fulfilled. There were two reasons: I always wanted to run my own business, but under the banner of a reputable brand. For me Winkworth ticked all the boxes as it’s a well-known brand in London with a ‘family’ feel. I like the fact that it’s a niche player in the market, too.

“My other main reason for leaving the corporate world was to take control of my destiny. I have created a successful team at the Ealing & Acton office and it would be fair to say that we are one of the leading agents in the area. With the expertise of my business partner, we have been able to maintain profit levels and continue to reinvest in the business.

If you can ‘lead by example’, see the potential in the brand and can build a strong team around you, then you could also be a successful Winkworth franchisee.

“The great thing about running your own business, is that there is no one looking ‘over your shoulder’, which means as the business owner, I make the decisions and receive the necessary input and support from the franchising team when needed. I am able to predict and be pro-active about market conditions. Working at the business coalface, I know what is going on, what I need to do and how rapidly to respond.

“Off the back of my success at the Ealing & Acton office, last year I was able to acquire (with my wife) the Winkworth Chiswick office. The office has enjoyed the same spot on Chiswick High Road for more than twenty years. It was a great opportunity to take on another franchise, and despite putting ourselves through more stresses, we felt we could work hard and reap the rewards. Again, running your own business gives you the opportunity to get like-minded people on board. It provides me with the opportunity of creating ‘winning’ teams that enjoy working together and take pride in their workplace.

If you can ‘lead by example’, see the potential in the brand and can build a strong team around you, then you could also be a successful Winkworth franchisee. But don’t forget it is a 24/7 job.”

Have you been thinking of starting a franchise?

Winkworth is looking for new franchisees to continue their successful growth.

Contact Gina Piper (Business Affairs Manager) on 020 7355 0200 or via email at gpiper@winkworth.com to find out more about starting your own Winkworth franchise. All conversations will be strictly private and confidential.

Learn more about franchising with articles, tips and advice on taking the next step in franchising: www.winkworth.co.uk/estate-agent-franchise