Franchise Article

Two members of the British Franchise Association have teamed up with the leading virtual PA and telephone answering franchisor, Kendlebell, to make its services an essential part of their own franchisees’ business success.

Lettings company Martin & Co (UK) Ltd and accountancy business TaxAssist Accountants have forged the strategic partnerships to help their new franchises to make a positive start when they are establishing their operations.

Commenting on the special deal the TaxAssist Accountants Chief Executive, Karl Sandall, said: “We run 165 accountancy franchises where good communication with clients is paramount. There is nothing worse than answerphones or diverted calls to mobiles. The Kendlebell service is so professional it is now built into our own package and all franchisees are mandated to use the service from the very start.”

“Once they appreciate the excellent benefits we expect they’ll continue to use the service throughout their business lives” he added.

Ian Wilson, Managing Director at Martin & Co, says standards matter in all of their 127 franchises. He believes the deal is great news for his franchisees who need to pay great attention to customer service: “Our Franchisees have to deliver this from day one. But in a new business there are not enough hours in the day, with constant emails and telephone calls and less than luxurious levels of staffing. Some pressures can be relieved by having a dedicated answering service because we know people are happier talking to a person than just leaving answerphone message. A spare pair of arms and voice are particularly useful when you are on your own in a new business.”

Simon Carter, Managing Director of Kendlebell says the partnerships illustrate the vital role PA and telephone service play in successful enterprises. “It is reassuring to have other BFA  members recognising the value our services bring by  professionalizing the interface with customers and suppliers. Consistent standards are so vital to a franchise business and we are pleased to be able to offer the kind of support that is needed.”

The Kendlebell  service is being managed by Helen Gould who runs a Kendlebell franchise in Crewe.