Pizza Franchise Opportunity With Domino's Pizza

Domino's Pizza

A Smart Move in Uncertain Times

September 30, 2008

We examine how investing in a franchised business, rather than setting up solo, can be a smart move in uncertain times.

We are living in an extraordinary and volatile economic environment at the moment, where, quite understandably, many people are shying away from the prospect of starting their own business.  But the credit crunch need not put the brakes on those dreams of being your own boss.

Rejections of mortgage and loan applications are at an all-time high, as banks too look to tighten their belts. In such a climate, it's proven winners and solid business plans that are most likely to tempt the lenders. With a national brand and track record as a successful company, a Domino's Pizza franchise fits that criteria.

As well as being an attractive opportunity for banks, new franchisees also benefit from a range of management and franchise training - not least the experience of a support network of successful franchisees who have started their own businesses.

The Domino's Franchise Development Programme includes a number of modules, such as sales & profits workshops, and training continues throughout a franchisee's Domino's career, with a series of Management Development Programmes.

Andy Hirst, Head of Franchise Development at Domino's Pizza, says: "Even in the current climate, it's a fantastic time to become a Domino's franchisee.

"We're finding that banks remain keen to lend to potential franchisees as they see Domino's as a good investment.  And with all the support that Domino's offers to new business owners, it's never been a better time to be your own boss."

Pizza People

Antony Tagliamonti is a shining example of what Domino's Pizza looks for in all its franchisees. At just 29 years old he is an exceptional ambassador for the company and a perfect role model for aspiring young business people. In 2006 he was named the youngest ever 'Franchisee of the Year' by the British Franchise Association and more recently he won a coveted Acorn award from Caterer & Hotelkeeper magazine in recognition of his outstanding achievements in business.

And all this from someone with hardly any management experience when he started out.  Whilst studying at college, Antony worked at the Domino's store in Leyton as a delivery driver for two years before leaving to pursue
a career on Fleet Street. His career as a newshound was to be short-lived, however, when the unmissable opportunity to buy shares in Domino's Woodford Green franchise came up.

Antony says, "When I took the decision to invest in my first store in Woodford Green it was a career turnaround, but the chance to open my own store really appealed to me. It was a daunting step because I really didn't have a clue how to run a business or manage my finances.  But the team at Domino's were really helpful.  I participated in one of their workshops as part of the Franchisee Development Programme where I learnt everything about sales and profit in a supportive environment of fellow new franchisees.  I haven't looked back since."

Antony puts his success down to a great team of people, lots of support and buckets of enthusiasm. His advice to aspiring entrepreneurs is clear, "setting up a new business on your own is daunting, and extremely hard work, especially if you've got no real experience.  I was in that situation when I left Fleet Street, and found that undertaking a franchise with Domino's gave me all the tools I needed to manage the business and financial side of things from the start."