General Information and answers to the most common questions asked. This section is designed to provide some quick answers to your questions. Please don't hesitate to contact us for more information or clarification.

Q1: Can I make a good living? Yes you can. However, that depends on you. If you are ready to work harder than you have ever worked before, you can build a successful business. Many have already done so. If you are not totally committed, you are far less likely to succeed. If you build a multi-van operation you will earn much more than a single operator. Any business venture involves risk, but greater risk generally means greater rewards.

Q2: How much is the franchise? : A Chemex franchise costs £23,500 plus VAT and we recommend around £10,000 working capital. Additional costs include purchase or lease of a suitable approved vehicle.

Q3: What kind of training will I get? The training of new franchisees starts with an induction course at our head office in the West Midlands. We normally have only 2 or 3 new franchisees on our training course at any one time. The course lasts 10 days with further training in the field. You will cover all aspects of operating the business including territory management, product knowledge, stock ordering, book keeping, sales & marketing, business administration and credit control. If you expand your business we will train your staff too. Our training section covers this topic in more detail.

Q4: What support do you provide for your franchisees? The support offered by Chemex continues throughout your career as a franchisee. Whether you need advice on how to develop your business or help with a particular product, the support is always available. We have a team of dedicated franchise support managers in the field. You are not alone and our proven business system has set many franchisees on the path to success.

Q5: What do I get when I join? Our franchise package includes everything you need to start out in business. We include all your personalised stationery, a complete pack of accessories and a comprehensive operations manual with a documented training schedule. Our mobile showrooms are fitted with a 240v power supply to power your laptop computer and accounts package with full details of the product range. Initial stock is also provided.

Q6: Can I operate more than one van? Of course, multi-van operations are strongly encouraged and staff will be more than happy to guide you through the process. We see this as a true route to growth.

Q7: What other ongoing costs are there? You will need to provide your own mobile phone, fuel for your vehicle and insurances ( we can introduce you to competitive brokers ). There is an ongoing 7.5% Royalty Fee.

Q8: Can I speak to existing franchisees? This is an integral part of our recruitment process. We need you to speak to some of our franchisees and we would insist that you go out with a franchisee for a day as part of your initial evaluation of Chemex.

Q9: What kind of marketing support will I get? Like any franchise, you are responsible for your own local marketing efforts. That said, we provide you with the tools for your marketing campaigns - from leaflets and flyers to point-of sale materials. We also teach you how to design and launch a campaign. We have an approved supplier of telemarketing services who will cold-call potential customers and arrange sales appointments on your behalf.

Q10: How can I expand my business? Once your business expands to the point at which it becomes too much for one person, you will need to think about expansion. Chemex can help you with employment advice and business development.

Q11: How soon can I be in business? The selection process, business planning and training course is likely to take around two or three months from enquiry stage.

Q12: How carefully do you select franchisees? Very carefully. The success of our network relies upon it. This is one of the reasons why it can take several months from application to commencing your Chemex business.

Q13: What if there is no territory near where I live? First of all, don't be put off. There may be a resale opportunity available nearby. With nearly 25 years of history behind us some of our franchisees are considering retirement. Please don't hesitate to contact us to find out more.

Q14: What do I do next? To find out more about us and to receive our franchise recruitment prospectus please complete the contacts form or alternatively send in our application form. You could of course just pick up the phone and ask to speak to Ron Hutton on 0121 565 6300.