When Buying A Franchise Resale Means Success

Nick Furlong and Gemma Hextall enjoyed business success through buying a Razzamataz resale franchise

You may think you have to buy a franchise and build it from nothing, but that’s not always the case. Some people opt to purchase an established franchise business and focus their energies on improving where the previous owners left off.

Nick Furlong and Gemma Hextall bought Razzamataz Sutton Coldfield in June 2015. At the time of purchase, the school had just 38 students - now it’s grown to 228 students in just over two years.

Dream fulfilled

Nick says: “It was my dream to own my own theatre school ever since I was in primary school.

“When we heard about the opportunity to buy Razzamataz Sutton Coldfield, we decided to go for it. It was never our intention to buy a resale franchise, but it came up at the right time for us and we knew the school had huge potential.”

One of the first things Nick and Gemma did when taking over was to build relationships between themselves and the staff and customers.

Nick explains: “We were keen to show the staff and customers that we were willing to listen to their ideas and take on board any feedback. We listened to their concerns about having new owners and made a huge effort to take the time for them to get to know, like and trust us.”

Although Nick and Gemma were quick to spot the growth potential Razzamataz Sutton Coldfield had, even they have been surprised about how quickly their business has blossomed.

“We knew we could build a vibrant theatre school with lots of students, but the speed in which it has happened has surprised us,” Nick adds. “Being part of an established franchise with all the power of the brand that’s behind us has propelled our growth.

“As well as our local marketing, we have the support of the national brand with a wonderful website and strong Google and social media campaigns. This is something we could not do as individuals and certainly not in the same time frame.”

Whether you’re buying an existing Razzamataz Theatre School or a new franchise, the training you’ll receive will enable you to be a confident owner of a performing arts school. Every aspect will be covered, from PR and Marketing to the latest in child legislation and practical information on how to lead your team and manage behaviour in class.

For Nick and Gemma, the direction the school is taking is enabling them to embrace every aspect of Razzamataz.

Resale franchise top tips

Nick says: “Talk to everyone involved in the business and use this as a chance to show how great you can make the school when you take on board their feedback.

“We didn’t change many things, but what we did do is make the culture very positive and try to lead by example. We’re proud the ethos and atmosphere at Razzamataz Sutton Coldfield is warm, welcoming and we have instilled a belief in all our students that they can achieve with the right mindset and hard work.”