Posted:07-November-2024
From education to chicken! Interview with Chicken Cottage’s latest franchisee
- Name: Tarek Mahmud
- Location: Holloway Road, London
- Franchise: Chicken Cottage
- Date launched the franchise: October 2024
Can you tell us a bit about yourself and what you were doing prior to buying your Chicken Cottage franchise business?
Before becoming a franchise owner, I ran an Education Consultancy Services company called ‘Tarek Associates,’ which gave me a good foundation in business operations and customer service. I was always drawn to the food and beverage industry, and Chicken Cottage seemed like the perfect opportunity to get involved in fast food.
Can you also tell us about the franchise you have bought?
I own a Chicken Cottage franchise, a well-established brand in the UK known for its delicious fried chicken and quick service. The franchise has a loyal customer base and a proven business model, which attracted me to invest in it.
Why did you go down the franchise route? What made you choose Chicken Cottage?
I chose the franchise route because it provides the safety of an established brand with systems already in place. The fast-food industry is always in demand, and Chicken Cottage has a strong brand name and reputation. I knew it was the right choice for me because of its solid support network and track record.
How did you raise the finance?
I funded the franchise through a combination of savings and a small business loan.
What training and support did you receive initially and ongoing?
Chicken Cottage offers extensive training on everything from food preparation to customer service. Their team has been incredibly supportive, offering ongoing help in operations, marketing, and staff management.
How would you describe your day-to-day role as a franchisee?
As a franchisee, my role involves overseeing the daily operations, managing staff, ensuring food quality, and handling customer service. I also focus on marketing efforts and making sure the franchise complies with Chicken Cottage’s brand standards.
Provide information on challenges overcome as well as your key successes to date.
One of the biggest challenges was building a solid team, especially with high turnover in the food industry. However, after recruiting dedicated staff and providing continuous training, I’ve managed to create a strong, cohesive team.
Has becoming a franchisee changed your life? If so, how?
It has given me a great sense of independence and accomplishment. Owning a franchise allows me to manage my own business while also having the support of a well-known brand. It’s definitely been a life-changing experience.
How do you achieve a work-life balance?
Work-life balance can be tough in the fast-food industry, but I make it a priority to delegate tasks to trusted staff and take time off when necessary. I also rely on efficient scheduling to ensure I can focus on both work and personal life.
If you are a multi-unit franchisee, can you tell us why your franchise is ideal for those looking for a scalable opportunity?
The consistency in operations and brand standards makes it easy to replicate success across different locations.
If you have staff, how do you retain your best staff and keep morale high and productive? How do you incentivise your staff and recognise success?
I believe in creating a positive and supportive work environment. I offer incentives such as performance bonuses and recognition programs to keep morale high. Regular teambuilding activities and open communication are also key to keeping my staff engaged and motivated.
Can you tell us about any community involvement, including any local partnerships, incentives or charity work you are involved in?
We’ve partnered with local schools to sponsor events and provide meal deals for students. Giving back to the community is important to me, and I’m always looking for more ways to get involved in local initiatives.
What is the most invaluable piece of advice you could give someone looking to buy their first franchise?
Do your homework! Make sure the franchise you choose aligns with your personal values and lifestyle. The brand you buy into should provide solid support and have a good reputation. It’s also important to speak with other franchisees to learn from their experiences.
In your opinion, what makes a successful franchisee?
A successful franchisee is someone who is hands-on, committed, and adaptable. It’s important to understand both the business and the brand to ensure everything runs smoothly.
What are your plans for the future?
I plan to expand my franchise operations and possibly open another Chicken Cottage location in the near future. I also aim to strengthen our ties with the community through more local partnerships.
If you had to do it all again, what would you do differently?
I would focus more on staff training from the start. Building a strong team is crucial, and I’ve learned that investing in training early on pays off in the long run.
Interested and want to know more about Chicken Cottage?
The Chicken Cottage profile outlines all aspects of their franchise opportunity and allows you to contact them for further information or to ask a question.
