“A good franchisee is someone who’s passionate about what they do”

The Spitting Pig Torbay franchisee, Rik Ashworth, talks support from the head office and the secrets of franchise success

Rik Ashworth has been The Spitting Pig franchisee for Torbay since March 2020 and he is looking forward to ramping up his operation.

As the first summer since COVID restrictions were lifted, Rik is understandably expecting a lot of work. He says: “I will be crazy busy from May and I am looking forward to a busy summer.”

With The Spitting Pig head office booking work, handling marketing and accountancy for franchisees, all Rik will have to do is provide his usual great service. This is one of Rik’s favourite parts of the job. “No two events are ever the same. I’ve been to some amazing venues and the feedback we get is awesome,” he admits.

Taking over a successful franchise at the start of a global pandemic is no mean feat, but Rik is clearly not resting on his laurels. He says: “My biggest achievement so far? I’ll let you know when I’ve achieved it!” 

Rik’s ambitious and down to earth attitude is something he considers important to success as a franchisee. “A good franchisee is someone who’s passionate about what they do,” he explains. “They have to be good with people and not afraid to get their hands dirty.”

Even as the boss, Rik is a regular on the grill and works as one of the team every day. 

As his own boss, he can take his work-life balance into consideration when making business decisions. Rik is grateful to his franchisor for what he calls: “The freedom to run your own business and team, whilst maintaining the high standards set by The Spitting Pig Co.”

Of course, as a franchisee, Rik can enjoy this freedom with all the support of a network who have been there and done it. All The Spitting Pig franchisees receive training and have access to 24/7 support from the head office and Rik has found it no different. He says: “Head office has been great. They have a fantastic work ethic and are really friendly.”

Rik has also had other franchisees in the network to lean on, he adds: “Other franchisees are really supportive and knowledgeable especially when I first started.”