Venture Photography pictures success in 2010
A CHESHIRE-BASED franchise has seen an unprecedented number of budding entrepreneurs approach them about business opportunities since the start of 2010.
Venture Photography, which has its headquarters in Winsford, has seen like-for-like enquiries from would-be franchisees double in the first two weeks of the new year.
The company had a turnover of £42.5m last year and specialises in portrait photography at its 57 nationwide studios.
Venture believes that it is on track for growth of 7% this year.
Mark Witter, Venture’s commercial director, said that he believes that the enquiries have resulted from people returning from the Christmas holidays feeling jaded about their jobs.
He said: “January is always a busy time of year for us in terms of business development, but this year has seen unprecedented interest from would-be franchisees.
“The Christmas holidays often provide the first opportunity in a while to consider our lives both professionally and personally. That’s why we see a significant spike in January from people looking to make a lifestyle change and work for themselves, as many feel motivated to take action rather than return to the usual routine.”
The North West and London were the areas with most would-be entrepreneurs making enquiries about franchise opportunities with the brand which is celebrating its 10th anniversary this year.
The British Franchise Association also states that, at the beginning of 2010 and particularly during the current economical climate, franchising is more popular than ever.
Tom Endean, marketing manager of the British Franchise Association (BFA) said: “With the break over Christmas and New Year, it is not uncommon to see many new people considering their options for the future; with starting their own business being one of those options.
“This natural trend, combined with the last 18 months seeing numerous redundancies and uncertainty, has meant that confidence and security is also something that people will want to look for.”
