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Names: Gemma Thorne
Areas: Cardiff

Question: What motivated you to buy the ChariSnack franchise opportunity?

Gemma Thorne: Having never run my own business before; having the support of a franchise was invaluable for me to achieve a successful business.  Also, I was drawn to the ChariSnack franchise as through running my business I am able to raise money for the NBCS charity. The main motivation for me was the independence of working for myself; I feel that a greater sense of achievement is accomplished by being self employed.

Question: Are you pleased with the support you get from ChariSnack?

Gemma Thorne: Yes, especially with regards to product development. When I took on the franchise over 3 and half years ago the product range was very limited compared to what products we have to offer our customers now.  I think the extensive product range has increased sales and secured customers for me. 

Question: Are you pleased with the product range/what are your favourites?

Gemma Thorne: Yes the cakes, I like the chocolate chip crunchy cake in particular!  The cakes have proved popular with my customers as well!

Question: What do you like most about the franchise and your business?

Gemma Thorne: Meeting people, the variety of running all functions of the business, the flexibility that the business offers, and developing the business.

Question: What hours do you work?

Gemma Thorne: Monday - Fri office hours. This fits perfectly around my lifestyle.

Question: I understand that you don't need a business premises and that you don't need expensive advertising, does that mean your overheads are low?

Gemma Thorne: Yes they are; the main investment is the van you will get.

Question: I understand that ChariSnack has now donated over £350,000 to the National Blind Children's Society, how does make you feel?

Gemma Thorne: Great, the fact that my business allows me to put something back into the community and help others is an excellent feeling!

Question: What happens when you go on holiday?

Gemma Thorne: I fill the boxes up more and let them know I will be back a week later to refill the boxes as I am off on holiday – this seems to work well.

Question: Do have plans to expand your business in any way?

Gemma Thorne: I have taken advantage of the vending machine opportunity, and currently have 5 placed. I aim to expand the business by installing more.

Question: Can you recall a specific experience about running a ChariSnack franchise where you were very pleased with your decision to join. 

Gemma Thorne: Taking advantage of the vending machine opportunity, although there is the cost of the machine, it increased profits almost immediately.  It provides the customer with more choice and reduces operating costs, as I don’t have to revisit the machine as often because it holds more stock. Vending is where people are spending! 

Question: What advice would you give to someone thinking about buying a ChariSnack franchise?

Gemma Thorne: Make sure that the franchise area you buy has high-quality growth potential. Ideally having a large city where you can concentrate on first and having areas you can expand to in the future. Ensuring that there is a high population in your area and having a variety of business parks is important; as I find these are good customers and easy to service. Primary schools are excellent customers too!  Make sure you re-site any boxes that come out. Finally make sure you keep on top of all elements of the business, even the areas that you do not find as interesting.

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