Computer Xplorers and Recognition Express have been able to continue performing well during the Covid-19 pandemic.
Nigel Toplis, Chairman of The Bardon Group, which owns the two brands, as well as Techclean and Kall Kwik, gave his thoughts on the past year.
Although Computer Xplorers franchisees previously spent a lot of time delivering classes in schools, the technology franchise was able to adapt as educational institutions closed down. It developed several online courses to help maintain its relationship with customers.
In fact, Nigel revealed the franchise has grown:
“The opportunity in this business is vast and even during the height of the pandemic we managed to recruit three new franchisees.”
Meanwhile, Recognition Express has also been forced to make changes to its operations. In normal circumstances, the franchise is “very customer centric”. Nigel said,
“Recognition Express is very robust and has been in business for over 40 years, through recessions, banking crises and now a pandemic. Through the banking crisis we did not lose a single franchisee and similarly during this pandemic none of our franchisees have closed due to Covid-19.”
Luckily, Recognition Express has been able to rely on the multiple revenue streams it developed around 18 years ago. The business is also grateful for the British Print and Communications (BAPC) trade body, for clarifying government initiatives.
Now, Recognition Express is preparing to train the first franchisee recruited during the pandemic.
According to Nigel, staying in touch with customers is key during these tough times. He explained,
“Across the board, the emphasis has been on maintaining close and regular communication with our customer base – be it email, letter, call, visit, brochure, awareness card, leaflet…
“It is not necessarily about getting business in the short term but ensuring that when the customer is back in situ and ready to order that our name is the only name on their lips.”
Alice Tuffery, Point Franchise ©
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