A hectic schedule in the upper levels of management in the corporate world resulted in Damian Pacitti questioning what his future held. The answer proved to be an award-winning franchise in Glasgow and an improved work/life balance and the demanding corporate rat race a thing of the past.

Why did you go down the franchise route? And why did you choose your franchise?

I was looking for a new direction and challenge with my career, wanting to work for myself and have a more flexible work/life balance to suit my young family.

Speedy Freight did not operate in Scotland and I saw this as a great opportunity for me to be involved with a growing national organisation. Glasgow is in many respects a gateway to the rest of Scotland with excellent transport links and I wanted to capitalise on being the first franchisee north of the border

What did you do before taking up a franchise?
I worked in the hospitality industry for over 20 years, running the operational side of the business as General Manager with a large team behind me.

How did you raise the finance?
A combination of savings and a loan.

What training and support did you receive initially and ongoing?
Some time spent learning the processes at Head Office followed by 3 weeks of ongoing support in my own branch. Head Office are there when you need them, they have assisted with recruitment, IT and regular contact keeps you up to date with any developments or opportunities arising. The quarterly franchisee meeting was very useful and I was delighted to win an award for best performing new comer.

What is a typical day for you as a franchisee?
In the office by 8, following up on enquiries, updating jobs from the day before, organising new jobs and making sales enquiries. Generally divert the phones to my mobile by 5.30 and head home.

What challenges have you faced?
Starting a new career in a different industry from scratch and building contacts and regular customers has been exciting. The first 3 months were difficult as you would expect with any new business but we are now beginning to reap the rewards of the hard work put in at the early stages.

Has becoming a franchisee changed your life, if so how?
Working for myself gives me a great sense of personal achievement, the business continues to grow and I still get to spend quality time with my family. I previously worked long anti-social hours within the hospitality industry. I can run the business from home and organise jobs 24/7 when necessary.

What advice would you give to someone thinking of buying their first franchise?
If you are looking for a new challenge and work hard you will get back what you put in. Speedy Freight give excellent support to their franchisees both in the initial set up and on an on-going basis.

What are your plans for the future?
To build on our existing customer base and look to tap into national contracts. The consistently excellent service is what brings our customers back.

Would you do it again?
Yes, without a doubt.