Mugg & Bean Franchise Chose me!
Bryan Watson
Cape Town (Constantia, Cavendish & Paddocks)
Mugg & Bean franchise
Why I chose franchising
I actually didn’t choose franchising it chose me! I was asked to give some advice on service levels at Mugg & Bean Constantia and I am still here eight years (and two more shops) down the line. A lot of people think operating a restaurant is an easy thing, it isn’t. Having a power brand (vision, knowledge, experience and leadership) behind you is vital! Having said that, owner operated franchises are still tops!
What I did before taking up my Mugg & Bean franchise
Finished matric in 1994. First job was a tour/cellar guide at Groot Constantia Wine Estate. Worked in both South Africa and the UK. Lots of experience gained by working for Conran Restaurants (London) , Harvey Nichols (London) and Constantia Uitsig – Frank Swainston (SA), then got involved in Mugg & Bean (2001).
How I raised the finance for buying a Mugg & Bean franchise
Some cash and some finance. Most finance from FNB. Not as easy to get finance at the moment with the global credit crunch!
The training and support I receive from Mugg & Bean
Over the years we have supported one another and helped train all levels of staff in many different areas and ways. The ongoing pursuit of perfection is a mutual driving factor. Training is an ongoing part of our business that there will never be an end to, the in-store and out-of-store training programs have developed ordinary people into an extraordinary workforce. Support from Mugg & Bean Brand is only a telephone call away! This ranges from procurement to marketing, if you ask, they will help you!
The challenges I have faced
I think the current economic situation is the worst of all the challenges we’ve faced. One of the biggest challenges in this business is people!
In the beginning when we were getting our customers into regulars, and our regulars into friends!
My advice to someone thinking of buying their first franchise
Location! Location! Location! Then the right franchise! Understand what you are getting into, read the fine print when it comes to leases! Ask for help! Be pro-active not re-active!
My plans for the future with Mugg & Bean
New business opportunities revamp two existing Mugg & Bean stores; expand my family, only time will tell….
