Q & A November 2020

 

Here is a list of some of the more common questions that we are receiving.  We are always very happy to answer any questions that prospective BIG TOM franchisees may have, but you might just find that someone has asked it already and the answer is below!

TERRITORY - AUTO vs MANUAL

The aim is for us to ensure that there is coverage for auto and manuals across the territories as they won't conflict with each other.  Clearly, there are always going to be more prime locations than others, and we are expecting there to be more demand for hotspot territory as we roll into 2021.  It will naturally be available on a first come, first served basis.

PROJECTED TURNOVER - FORECASTING 

We have many years experience of providing these courses across many towns and cities.  The Franchisor will be in a position to give prospective franchisees full support in projecting turnover, in a realistic and ethical manner.  It is in no-ones interest to be making over-inflated projections in the first year of trading.

KNOW HOW

This is one of the most common questions asked from prospective franchisees who are not currently driving instructors.  It is a valid concern because no-one would want to feel ill-equipped to maintain standards of the Franchisor's established brand.  The induction training that is provided is thorough and provided without any pressure and backed up with reference materials so that you don't feel that you are cramming everything in at one time.  Be assured that your Franchisor will be delivering first class support from the beginning and it will continue as you progress in building your business. We would stress from the outset that it is best NOT to expect the working methodology to be comparable with driving instructors who provide standard 'pay as you go' driving training.  There are high standards of training and that will inevitably involve professional, personalised training with our franchisees; this shouldn't be perceived as any kind of threat, it is simply the way in which BIG TOM creates working relationships with franchisees and customers.  The results of the training methods are superb!

DRIVING SCHOOL CAR

This old chestnut always crops up.  You are able to use an existing vehicle you have, subject to certain conditions which the Franchisor can expand on for those who need to know.  There is perhaps a surprisingly large amount of freedom on this topic and all vehicle branding is done at the cost of the Franchisor.  That said, if you are wanting guidance on any aspect of selecting a suitable vehicle, you only need to ask.

COMMITMENT

The BIG TOM Franchise Agreement specifies a limited initial contract period as it gives franchisees the opportunity to get settled in.  The recruitment process does however look for applications that demonstrate a keen interest in long-term development of their business with us.

COVID

It is quite understandable why this subject comes up in our conversations.  The Franchisor takes the responsibility of safety for franchisees and pupils seriously.  The BIG TOM Covid-19 Driving Training Strategy has proved effective to date but be assured that there is no complacency and our business model by its very nature involves you being exposed to LESS pupils per day than most other driving training schools in the industry.