Until last year, Manchester-based Stephen Sowerby was an Assistant Manager in KPMG’s Risk Advisory Department where he qualified as a chartered accountant.

Stephen Sowerby

Until last year, Manchester-based Stephen Sowerby was an Assistant Manager in KPMG’s Risk Advisory Department where he qualified as a chartered accountant.

Stephen recalls: “I had always wanted to have my own business. I eventually considered franchising and found the Auditel Cost and Purchase Management Franchise through the British Franchise Association (bfa). I chose Auditel because it presented me with the opportunity of starting up on my own, while having the support of a proven format that has survived for over 18 years. I could apply the skills in which I am experienced and qualified and still be free to run my own business. I joined their network last March.”

Stephen confirms that the initial training is of very high quality, but it is the on-going support of the network which is most valuable to him. Their members and the trainers are always more than happy to assist in any way they can, especially during the start-up phase. The support on offer is second to none in helping to establish and grow your business.

He adds: “Head Office also provide support on commercial matters and on many occasions the Directors at Auditel have given up their time to help me create some of the more complex business relationships that I have come across.”

After only a year, Stephen’s business is proving to be very successful. “I now have quite an established client base where relationships are maturing and initial projects have been completed. Being highly recommended by one client to another is a great compliment; these referrals are also helping to grow my business at an encouraging rate.

“Recently, I saved a commercial property leasing company 62% on the fixed charges by simultaneously agreeing 22 energy contracts on their properties. I also reduced between 30%-50% across four projects on the core overheads for a chartered accountancy practice.”

“I am already ahead of my first year’s business plan!” 

Stephen reveals:” I will continue to grow my client base and start delivering projects in new areas in which I am gradually gaining experience. When I judge that the time is right, I will look to hire employees to assist with the analysis work. I can then concentrate on developing the business to generate the maximum revenue. This past year has been successful and most enjoyable. It’s a great thrill to run your own venture and be in control of your destiny. I am already ahead of my first year’s business plan. I thoroughly recommend it!

About Auditel

Established in 1994, Auditel is the UK and Ireland’s largest and fastest growing cost and purchase management franchise opportunity with a network of over 200 highly-skilled specialists. Since 2005, the number of franchisees has grown by 175%. Over 90% of their franchisees renew their agreements after 5, 10 and 15 years. Auditel’s franchisees client base grew by 66% between January 2009 and December 2011. The network turnover has grown by 192% since 2007. Their higher earners enjoy an income of over £200k.