Communicating during a pandemic

Usually at this time of year, our franchise network would meet at a local conference centre to share best practice, discuss plans for the year ahead and have a bit of fun. Sadly, the current Covid-19 restrictions have forced us to cancel our plans, but this has not stopped us completely! The wonder of technology has enabled the network to continue communicating, albeit via Teams video calls.

During the last couple of weeks, our franchisees have been busy booking video calls with our support teams, Marketing, Operations, Accounting and IT, to review plans, discuss any challenges and look at new growth initiatives for the year ahead. Covid-19 has been an obvious discussion point, but one that has provided an opportunity for branches in the increase in demand for more frequent cleans and the demand for deep clean services.

“We’ve all had a very productive couple of weeks, spending quality time and engaging with our franchisees. We’ve had positive discussions about their individual businesses and ways they can grow in 2021.

Covid-19 has challenged all businesses, even commercial cleaning, but the need for premises to be cleaned, helps our franchise ride the waves and operate in a recession-resistant market. I am so impressed and proud of the resilience and determination our franchisees have shown during this time and I look forward to helping them succeed during 2021.

These virtual sessions have enabled Franchisees to stand back from their businesses for a moment and to think about planning for tomorrow and how they can plan to build value across their businesses using the skills and knowledge of the Network Support Team.” Mike Parker, managing director.