Driver Hire is the UK’s biggest supplier of recruitment services in the transport and logistics industry. If you’re interested in running your own business in the sector, you might like to find out more about the company - but does Driver Hire franchise?
Across more than 100 UK offices, Driver Hire supports drivers and logistics staff who are looking for work by placing them in full-time or part-time employment with other organisations. So, can prospective investors partner with the company?
Does Driver Hire franchise?
Yes! The Driver Hire franchise model allows independent investors to set up their own branch of the business and offer its services with tried and tested strategies.
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History of Driver Hire
Driver Hire was first launched in West Yorkshire in 1983 as a business supplying temporary drivers to local transport companies. Since then, the company has built on its model and set up more than 100 local offices across the UK, headed by franchisees.
Now, Driver Hire is the UK’s largest specialist logistics recruitment firm and benefits from 35 years of industry experience and expertise. Clients can take advantage of its wide range of different services, as the franchise covers both temporary and permanent jobs across the driving and logistics sectors.
Owning a franchise has been a fantastic experience for me. I’ve found it liberating, and I feel motivated like never before. I’ve got an asset I am increasing the value of, and I reap the rewards of my own hard work. It’s very satisfying that my team also benefit from our success; they are on the journey too! – James Craven, Driver Hire Bournemouth franchisee
Starting a Driver Hire franchise unit
Driver Hire can offer investors a high-income potential. Its average business unit generated £1.2 million in revenue in 2018/19, three times the figure across the wider franchise industry of £400,000 (BFA-NatWest survey).
The good news is, you don’t need any previous experience in transport or recruitment to become a Driver Hire franchise partner. Instead, the business favours candidates with a background in sales, customer service or relationship-building roles. As a Driver Hire franchisee, you’ll be expected to allocate as much of your time to customer-focused activities such as acquiring new business and managing your team.
A positive attitude and self-motivation are also key attributes of any franchisee.
Becoming a Driver Hire franchisee:
Your journey to becoming a Driver Hire franchisee starts with the completion of an application form. You’ll need to specify your preferred franchise unit location, budget and borrowing potential. This information will help Driver Hire decide whether to offer you the chance to become an investor.
The next step is an introductory telephone conversation, followed by a face-to-face meeting either in a convenient location or at Driver Hire’s head office in Bradford. These initial meetings are your chance to ask any questions you have and make a great first impression on the franchisor and their team.
After you’ve met with the franchisor, to confirm your territory, it’s time to find out more about what it’s like to be a Driver Hire franchisee. The best way to do this is to meet with existing partners.
When you’re given all the documentation detailing the franchise opportunity, it’s a good idea to consult industry professionals. Ask an experienced franchise solicitor to review the paperwork with you, and discuss your lending options with a bank.
Once your due diligence is complete, and you’re ready to proceed with the investment, you’ll be given support as you start developing your business. You’ll get help to plan your progress, search for suitable premises, buy equipment and recruit staff. This can be a daunting time, but Driver Hire helps make the process a lot easier and less stressful.
How much you need to invest:
Setting up a Driver Hire business will cost £40,000. This payment should cover your training scheme, initial marketing material and business support, as well as furniture, equipment and signage for your branch.
Many high-street banks have specialist franchise departments and advisers who can help you identify the best way to fund your venture. Driver Hire also has a Deferred Purchase Scheme, so you can place a deposit of £16,000 and take out an unsecured loan, which you’ll pay back over two years.
If you’re buying an existing Driver Hire franchise unit as a resale opportunity, the figures can vary significantly. The price will depend on factors such as trading history, profitability and the potential for future development. Prices can range from £40,000 to £500,000.
What you get for your investment:
Driver Hire provides franchisees with all the support they need to build a profitable business. Franchisees are allocated an area development manager and can access guidance with accounts, HR, marketing and IT.
Before you open your doors, you’ll have the chance to take part in a four to six-week training course, followed by a six-month Franchise Support Programme. These comprehensive schemes are designed to give you and your staff the know-how and expertise to establish a profitable business.
Driver Hire also has an online forum for extra help and organises regional meetings, training events and an annual conference. Franchisees always have an opportunity to raise queries and share insight with other Driver Hire investors, no matter where they are on their franchising journey.
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Join the recruitment industry
If you’re interested in starting a staffing agency business or breaking into the logistics sector, Driver Hire can help you launch a profitable franchise unit capable of long-term success. But if its investment opportunity isn’t quite right for you, we have lots of other options in our business directory.
Take a look at our full selection of business and B2B franchise opportunities to get the ball rolling. Alternatively, learn more about becoming a franchisee with our range of informative articles and guides.
Alice Tuffery, Point Franchise ©
>> Read more articles on the Recruitment sector
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