Spotlight on event sponsor: Vodafone

Later this month The Northern Franchise Exhibition, sponsored by Vodafone, will open its doors at EventCity, Manchester, to inspire the next generation of business owners. On Friday 21 & Saturday 22 June, visitors will have access to expert advice, free presentations and a range of established franchise brands under one roof. In preparation, we found out a bit more about event sponsor Vodafone’s unique franchise proposition… 

Vodafone is one of the world’s leading mobile communications providers, operating in 26 countries and in partnership with networks in over 55 more. Across the world, it has almost 444 million customers, with around 19.5 million in the UK. 

But more than that, the people at Vodafone are passionate about what they do. Who they are and what they stand for are at the heart of the business. Vodafone’s network carries the call that can make someone’s day or a difference to their life. It all boils down to the brand’s three key values of speed, simplicity and trust: by being quick to deliver, while being clear in what they say and do, customers will continue to believe in Vodafone. 

The Vodafone franchise opportunity isn’t your traditional franchise model; there is no upfront fee. All that’s required is that you can demonstrate that you have sufficient funds to run the store for the first three months upon opening – which tends to be between £60,000 and £100,000. Furthermore, you’ll be taking over a business that’s up and running – stocked, staffed and selling – while enjoying the backing of a globally recognized brand.

Vodafone’s Partner Agents benefit from existing support channels, including IT support, an escalation desk, training and a dedicated HQ team. Essentially, it’s in Vodafone’s best interested for its franchise stores to succeed – so it does all it can to ensure that you do. 

Neil Witney, franchise owner of the Newport, Eastleigh & Havant stores, says:

“If you want to become your own boss but still have the support of a massive brand behind you, then why wouldn’t you choose Vodafone? You’d be nuts not to!”

Vodafone’s entire retail estate consists of just over 400 stores, more than 100 of which are franchised. The aim is to have 200 of these stores franchised by April 2020 to allow the brand to develop a deep understanding of the local communities it serves. By regularly responding to customer feedback, Vodafone is able to serve it’s customers the products and services they want and cement their position on the nation’s high streets.

Steven Marshall, a Partner Agent in Lancaster has certainly felt the benefit of this approach. He comments:

“Working in partnership with Vodafone, I have the weight and support of the brand behind me, coupled with the agility of a small business to make decisions on a local basis that allows me to achieve my business objectives. I have never looked back!”

Although Vodafone looks for candidates who have sufficient knowledge of the retail industry, you do not have to have experience within the telecommunications sector. Ideal candidates are entrepreneurs who want to run their own business but with the backing and support of a huge global brand. Vodafone’s franchisees are results-driven people. They must be leaders with excellent communication skills and an optimistic and motivated work ethic.

Think that sounds like you? Come and meet the Vodafone team at The Northern Franchise Exhibition on 21 & 22 June at EventCity, Manchester. Find out more about the Partner Agent programme, get to know the team behind the brand and take your first step on the road to business ownership.

Book your free tickets today at FranchiseTickets.co.uk