"I needed a new challenge and a change from my current career. My work had become something I no longer enjoyed. I wasn’t particularly looking for a franchise but my wife found out about ChipsAway and the nature of the work really appealed, so we looked into it further.
"It seemed to offer all the things I was looking for. I could be my own boss and continue to do something creative. I couldn’t have started this type of business without the training support and backing of an established company behind me. Working outside in a fairly physical job appealed too, but most importantly it meant I could see more of my family.”
Richard became a ChipsAway partner in 2011, and since joining the franchise he has found the training and support to be excellent:
"Support has always been there for me at ChipsAway. Any problems and they've been there on all levels, whether it's been a personal issue or work related. The 4-week training course is the perfect way to learn!"
ChipsAway provide franchisees with an initial month of technical, sales and marketing training, which is then followed up with more advanced training 3 months later. Other training courses are also available on request.
"Initially, my biggest reservation was putting a large amount of money into something brand new. It’s a scary step. However, I don’t have any regrets – I now have a thriving business that both supports my family and gives me the time with them that I was missing in my previous life."
A ChipsAway franchise has certainly given Richard the freedom to mould his work around his lifestyle:
"After dropping my son at school at 9am, I walk the dogs, make my phone calls to potential customers that have come in and start my first job at 10am. There’s no set finish time. Sometimes I will work into the evenings if I’m very busy, particularly in summer when I like to make the most of the long days."
"Joining ChipsAway has made my life so much better! I spend less time stuck in front of a computer, there’s no office politics, I have more time with my family and can even take the dogs to work. Overall, it’s just a happier, healthier work / life balance.
Finally, we asked Richard about his aspirations for the future, he replied: "I just want to continue as I am. I’ve always wanted a job where I wake up and want to go to work, and I have that now!"