Leading greeting card publisher and franchisor, Card Connection, has announced today that its Irish forecourt and convenience store customers have welcomed its innovative consignment sales concept, which allows retailers to diversify their product range with no initial outlay.

“The consignment approach is very simple,” explains Andrew Cutler, sales director of Card Connection. “Our team of franchisees deliver greeting cards and gifts to retailers, they then install and merchandise the products on display equipment which is provided on a free loan basis. This is one step beyond sale or return, as shop managers don’t have to purchase product up-front, they only pay for the stock they sell. Many Irish retailers are finding this service particularly valuable given the continued challenges in our economic climate.

“A number of our franchisees come from retailing or forecourt backgrounds,” continues Cutler. “In this way, our team understands the importance of presenting a quality product display which encourages purchasing behaviour, ultimately resulting in increased profit for both the retailer and the franchisee. Our franchisees create a win-win situation and retailers are really welcoming this innovative approach.”

Card Connection franchisees supply and merchandise customised displays from over 1200 designs, ranging from luxury hand made greeting cards to tall humour, occasions and seasonal product. With a card to suit every occasion as well as gift wrap, bottle bags and impulse buy gifts, retailers are keen to take advantage of this risk-free income stream. As a result, Card Connection franchisees now supply the likes of: Barry’s Of Mallow, Gala Retail Services, Mangans Wholesale, ADM/Londis and Musgrave/Daybreak as well as many independent retail stores.

Card Connection has limited vacancies in Ireland for franchisees who are keen to run an expanding business. Successful candidates would ideally have some management experience as, once established, they would be expected to employ a small team, operate a warehouse and have several liveried vans on the road.

Because the franchise networks in the UK and Ireland are complete, the available opportunities now consist of acquiring an already-established territory from an existing franchisee. These vary in price according to their level of development, but start at €24.330 (+ stock) with earnings potential in excess of €60,800 per annum.