Find out more about Stuart Bain and how Aspray franchise works for him
The reasons for starting my own business under the umbrella of Aspray were twofold:
Firstly, after a significant change in management with my old company I felt that it was detrimental to my manufacturing role. Thus, after 30 years in this career I felt it was time for a change. At this point with the vision of building a future where my own hard work would be rewarded I came to the conclusion that I would rather be my own boss.
Secondly, having considered various options I came to the conclusion that a franchise operation would be the perfect vehicle for me. The reason for this was that running my own business would leave me vulnerable during the start up months. I needed the security of a company like Aspray behind me, as I have family commitments and a mortgage to pay!
Aspray instantly appealed to me as I have always been a DIY enthusiast and am passionately interested in restoration, and also this option meant that I could be up and running almost immediately!
I never felt pushed into a contract in any way, James Whittle is a genuine businessman and gentle person and I definitely got the impression he was looking for a mutually beneficial partnership rather than a one way cash cow.
In terms of my work/social life balance, I can say that it has improved dramatically. In my previous role as Manufacturing Manager, I was on call 24 / 7 and was averaging a 50 hour working week.
Working with the Aspray Franchise, I can now choose the hours I want to work. Although my working hours still average 40 - 45 hours per week I predominantly work from home, therefore I do not have the stress of travel, my hours are flexible and I have control over my workload.
In terms of the future, I do not have any hard and fast targets other than a continual growth of turnover, but I set my aspirations at a level that although challenging will not be at the detriment of family life!
I would have absolutely no hesitation in recommending Aspray as a potentially rewarding business opportunity to others provided that they carry out a full evaluation of the business and that they make the most of Aspray’s training and support. As long as you are able to manage yourself and motivate others, and you are comfortable working along side an eclectic mix of clients and tradespeople, you will develop a business which is both profitable and enjoyable.

I now have much more control over my day which means that I can take time out to ferry the kids around or go to their school play.

15th December 2011
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