With over 30 years of building and advancing franchised businesses, Gary has a very strong sense of direction and purpose within the world of franchising. He builds on the basics while innovating in areas that provide the most opportunity for increased success. The following are his answers to some key franchising questions:
BeTheBoss.ca: Why would someone consider a franchise rather than going out on their own?
Gary Decatur: It really depends on what you expect from the business you’re going into and whether you have all the tools to get the job done. Up to 30% of people going into business on their own are successful while an impressive 80% who pursue an established franchise are more apt to succeed. That alone is enough reason to at least explore a franchise opportunity and determine whether it’s for you.
BTB: Are there personal advantages to being in a franchise?
GD Certainly, you’re your own boss but unlike independent operators, you don’t have to be an expert in every area of the business. At M&M Meat Shops, the research, preparation, and planning are already done for you. All your systems, product sourcing and buying, store layout and fixtures, distribution, and marketing are done for you. This leaves you to focus on day-to-day operations and develop return customer relationships.
BTB: What should you look for in a franchise?
GD You need to look at every aspect of the operation including support, planning, product, and brand. At M&M Meat Shops, we have the infrastructure, resources, and track record to get you up and running towards a positive future. We thoroughly analyze and evaluate potential markets before determining store location and viability. It’s this attention to detail and planning that fully scopes the market your franchise will serve.
In addition to high quality product at competitive pricing, we continually evaluate our selection to not only meet consumer expectations but in many cases, exceed it. That translates into return business. Then, there’s brand recognition. The M&M Meat Shop brand is not only respected and valued by our customers, it already has a built-in following thanks in part to our national flyer program and positive community presence.
BTB: What kind of support should you expect?
GD An M&M Meat Shops, you receive a turn-key operation with extensive training, operational assistance, competitive and in-store analysis, feature product recommendations, weekly flyer access, and of course, our group buying power. You’re not in it alone. You have our entire company and its many resources to get you started and then, help keep you headed in the right direction. Our knowledge and expertise is yours backed by experienced mentors to guide you every step of the way.
BTB: So a successful franchise guarantees success?
GD Not necessarily. While M&M Meat Shops provides you with all the tools you’ll need to be successful, your hard work and determination are still key contributors to the success of your franchise. Just like any business, you get what you put into it. You need to take full advantage of everything M&M Meat Shops has to offer and make it happen at store level.
