Paul Banton-Forbes
About Paul
Paul has a background in finance and has been a World Options franchisee since 2014.
His franchise is based in Kent.
What did you do before deciding to become a World Options franchisee?
I was in the city broking for 28 years. So just dealing with funds, C.D.S., bonds, speaking to bankers, and just facilitating their trade. All they did was trade and go from one bank to the other. I was the middleman.
Why did you decide to purchase a World Options franchise?
It wasn't necessarily the shipping industry I was attracted to. It was the flexibility. Before World Options, I was driving into the city at 6 am coming home at 7 pm. So I wanted a job that allowed me to see the kids.
When I started talking to people at World Options, I realized it was similar to what I already do: being the middleman between the need and the provider and forming a relationship.
What appealed to you in World Options that other franchises didn't have?
It was a small commitment with my money. With a lot of the other franchises, you have to go and set up a big shop, or you've got to come with 100 grand in. Businesses like this are usually on a sale basis, so you do one sale, and then you've got to do more. On the other hand, World Options allowed me to make money without having to make a sale actively. You can work on new business while existing customers are still generating money.
Another consideration was my pension. I needed something that gave me security for later in life, and shipping would only grow.
What's changed for you since becoming a World Options franchisee?
My kids are now 13 and ten, and I've spent a lot of time with them. They know me. So that freedom has been great. I've, I've met a lot of great people within, within World Options.
How did you make your franchise a success?
It's just giving the customers that extra bit. At Christmas, for example, we send more cards and chocolates. I'll call them just so we'll see how things go, and when there's an issue, I'll solve it. Just listening to your customers goes a long way. Yes, the price always plays an important role when acquiring new customers, but it's the extra bit of service that will give you a loyal customer base.
What advice would you give to people thinking about becoming a World Options franchisee?
When you read about it, sales seem very easy. It's not, but as long as you work hard and follow the process, you will see the rewards. It's not a get-rich-quick scheme. If you keep working on your franchise, delivering that extra service and knocking on doors, you'll see that it's longevity, and you can make a lot of money out of it.
Are you our next big success story?
Take matters into your own hands and request a call with Franchise Director Howard McCormick today!