Simon Driver is our Northampton franchisee. Find out more about his experiences as a Really Awesome Coffee franchisee below!

Tell us a bit about yourself and what you were doing prior to buying a franchise business?

I had spent 26 years in distribution with one of the country’s best known retailers.

Why did you go down the franchise route? What made you choose the coffee industry? And why Really Awesome Coffee?

I wanted to be my own boss but liked the support mechanism that a franchise offers. I think the coffee industry is going to continue to grow and I really liked the mobility of the Really Awesome Coffee business model..

How was the training and support that you received initially and ongoing?

Me and my wife underwent the barista training course at the Really Awesome Coffee head office which taught us how to make all the different drinks. I also spent a number of days on the Coventry van as well as visiting existing franchisees. Both gave me huge confidence in `going it alone` when the time came.

I also had great support with the technical side of the van and never felt I was left to fend for myself. My franchise development managers energy and enthusiasm when touting for business to set up the round was invaluable.

What is a typical day for you as a franchisee?

Get up early and load the van. It’s then out the door to my stops to sell lots of coffee and treats. Once I have finished my round I head home to clean down the van. Luckily for me my family help to replenish the van and do accounting on most days which gives me even more free time.

What challenges have you faced?

Initially, the act of just standing up for most of the day was at first. Now the biggest challenge for me is nailing the ordering so I minimise wastage. I’m still learning though.

Has becoming a franchisee changed your life, if so how?

It has become a lot less stressful.

What are your new customers like?

Quite frankly the best part of the business for me is the customers. They are the life blood so I make sure they get a first class service. They come out to the van for a treat and are always happy.

What is the most invaluable piece of advice you could give someone looking to buy their first franchise?

Have the backing of your family or loved ones. Even with all the help from the support team you will need to invest a lot of energy to get going and having support from them has been essential to me.

In your opinion, what makes a successful franchisee?

You have to put the effort in to reap the rewards.

What are your plans for the future with your business?

At the minute it is just to carry on delivering a great service. I have a great work-life balance right now. I would eventually like to add a second van at some point.