Brief Description of Ableworld's Business

Ableworld is one of the country's largest retailers in the rapidly growing Mobility and Homecare Sector. From our retail outlets we offer customers a large selection of quality mobility and homecare products at value-for-money prices and exceptional levels of service and aftercare. Our products which range from walking sticks to hi-spec mobility scooters, from back supports to stairlifts, are all designed to give our customers greater independence and improved quality of life. Ableworld's in-house stairlift business provides a complete service from initial assessment through to the fitting and maintenance of high quality reliable stairlifts.

A Full Ableworld Franchise offers prospective franchise owners the opportunity to invest in both sides of the business - a retail store outlet and the accompanying

The Financial Opportunity – Full Franchise

Your Initial Investment Fee gives you a complete franchise package:

• two viable businesses for the price of one
• exclusive use of the Ableworld™ brand within a protected area
• a comprehensive Operations Manual
• full training on Ableworld products, systems and business
• Ableworld LinePlans to organise your store
• intensive support during your first week
• highly experienced industry mentors to guide you
• the back-up of a professional Head Office
• and much more...such as advice on retail property purchase, on-going training and support, newsletters, help in arranging finance, assistance in securing your first stock order...and more...a marketing launch pack, a twelve-week diary of steps to take when you first open and management coaching from our in-house business coach.

The Operations Manual contains all the information and know-how to run your business successfully. The Ableworld Training Plan includes training on products, services, systems, engineering and general business advice. The Manual and Initial Training, together with our support and mentoring mean that you and your business get off to the best possible start.

Ableworld's First Franchise Owner - Birkenhead
In 2008 Andy Rees, who had been in the Royal Navy and had run a furniture business saw the enormous potential that exists in the mobility and homecare sector. Together with a trusted ex-service partner, Barry O'Donnell, he diligently researched the market and eventually decided that he wanted to team up with a Cheshire-based company called Ableworld, who had 10 mobility and homecare stores in the North West.

Ableworld, founded in 2000 by Mike Williams, who had previously played a prominent role in building up the Focus DIY chain, had grown steadily over its 10 year existence but did not at that time have a franchise operation. However, both parties could see the benefits and a franchise arrangement was agreed. Andy and Barry duly opened their store in Birkenhead in 2008. Nearly two years later they are running 30% above budget and are looking to take on a second franchise.

Andy Rees says, "Franchising is a great way to start in business because you get the expertise and backing from people who have "been there, done that". They have systems and processes which have worked in the past and which we have proved can work in the future. Of course it's hard work but then so is working for someone else – the difference is that you get to create wealth for yourself and your family rather than someone else."

Ableworld Franchise Owner Support

Many people think of starting their own business – not just for the financial rewards but for the opportunity to be your own boss and run your own life. But the downside is that although you get all the rewards, you also take the risks. Taking on a franchise within a proven operation reduces those risks substantially. By joining Ableworld, you can reduce them even more.

Established Track Record - As a franchise oartner you become part of a proven system of operation. Ableworld offers a concept with products and services that have sold successfully. You have history to learn from and to help you predict your own future.

Faster Start Up - You have a shorter learning curve as a franchise owner, because you have assistance from a franchisor with lots of experience in opening new stores to draw upon. You and your personnel will get comprehensive on-the-job instruction.

Less Risk - Your chances of failure are lower with a franchise operation because of the experience, expertise and proven resources that support you in your business. Franchises succeed at the rate of 90%.

Low Investment - Ableworld franchises are realistically priced to help new entrepreneurs. Moreover, we can help new franchise owners to borrow additional finance by facilitating arrangements with lending institutions, which look positively on lending to franchise owners because of their high success rates.

Purchasing Power - The group purchasing power makes a big difference to your costs and ultimately your profit. Large buying groups can demand significantly lower prices on goods and services and Ableworld's buying expertise is particularly strong.

Name Recognition and Brand Awareness - With an established business like Ableworld, you get the benefits that occur from marketing a trusted brand of products and services.

As a franchise owner, you buy the right to develop your business in a defined geographical area, and can offer customers the full breadth of Ableworld expertise, all supported by the full span of our capabilities.

Our aim is to provide a nationwide quality service to customers with an emphasis on ethical trading, personal service and professionalism. We aim to build up a strong two way working relationship with all our franchise owners and make the Ableworld name synonymous with excellence. So if you're looking for a franchise opportunity with some real strengths search no more.

Customer Testimonials

"Just to say a sincere 'thank you' to you all. Not only for the helpful and professional advice you gave, but also for your genuine and humane response to our dilemma."
Alice and Ray Morgan, Wrexham

"Thank you so much for your help and kindness when we visited your store last week. The basket for the walking frame was perfect and my Dad is 'made up' with it and the shower items we got. Thanks and best wishes."
J & M. Majdner

"Just a note to say a big 'thank you' for the several large purchases we have made from your Winsford shop during the past year making my life much easier and more comfortable.

"But more importantly in these times when young people are given such a bad press, I would like to express my appreciation to the staff for their friendliness, helpfulness and guidance, and give them 10 out of 10 for their service!

"Many thanks once again."
Mrs J. Hulse, Winsford

"Thank you so much for supplying us with exactly the right product. When you think all our business was conducted over the phone, it's quite remarkable! It just goes to show what excellent listeners and sales people you are.

"I have just finished arranging my lounge and have sat in real comfort for the last hour. I really felt that I had to say thank you personally. I know that my husband will be delighted when he gets home from hospital, so a big 'thank you' from him too. "I am sure that we shall meet you again in the future, until then I hope that you will continue to provide such excellent service."
Mrs L. Baraclough,Telford

"Recently I had reason to go into your Nantwich shop as I wanted my walker handles hired. I must say the young ladies who served me were so patient and understanding and for another thing I wanted they did not try to rush me – they were not patronising and I felt I must tell you how human and understanding they were. My friends often go to your shop for me as unless I am I am taken I find it difficult – some shops I dread going in – but not the Nantwich Ableworld. So I just thought I would drop you a line to tell you."
Mrs L. Vince, Crewe

"Sorry for the delay in writing this letter. I would like to thank you for your help and your staff for the trouble you went to, to find a chair suitable for me."
Mrs E. Morris

"Thank you so much for your help. My sister is so grateful for her chair lift. It has made a terrific difference to her life. Thank you once again."
V. Juste, Birkenhead.

"I would like to say thank you, as the two lady shop assistants at your Wrexham store were not only helpful they were very professional and passionate about their job. They gave me lots of information. Could you please pass on my thanks to them and to any relevant person, as I believe they deserve high praise."
J. Trematick

"I had brilliant service from a young lady at your Saltney store last week. She was very helpful (not pushy) and seemed to be quite knowledgeable about products for certain health conditions. I was impressed."
Liz, Chester