Invest in The Zip Yard, a ready-made alterations business, and you’ll join a highly supportive network of over 50 satisfied franchisees
If you’re looking for a ready-made business that prioritises support and training to ensure success and profitability, then investing in The Zip Yard, the UK’s only garment alterations franchise, could be the perfect choice.
One of the most compelling reasons why entrepreneurs and business people feel so confident investing in a The Zip Yard franchise is because every process is fine-tuned to make sure new owners are provided with a turnkey business that can start making money from day one.
A compelling proposition
Neluka Dunning, UK franchise owner of The Zip Yard, comments: “Becoming a The Zip Yard franchise owner gives you the chance to become an entrepreneur without the added stress that comes with setting up from scratch. There’s absolutely no requirement to have experience of seamstressing or tailoring to own a The Zip Yard franchise. In fact, many of our most successful UK franchise owners had never even considered the idea of owning an alterations business before they enquired.
“The Zip Yard has over 50 stores across the UK and Ireland, so we’ve really streamlined our process to make sure everything is in place to start a profitable Zip Yard store and make it as easy as possible for new franchise owners to get going. We provide a licence to trade, access to The Zip Yard intranet system, operations manual, sales, pricing and accountancy hardware and software as well as technical support. We also help devise a marketing plan for businesses to take off and continue to grow.
“New owners are invited to spend two days shadowing one of our successful stores, allowing them to see how we work, what sets the stores apart and understand the company ethos and attention to customer service.”
Collaborating towards success
Training covers all aspects of running the business and includes financial management and VAT, employer obligations, contracts, PAYE, computer systems, re-ordering, insurance, customer services, health and safety, productivity and franchise cycles.
Putting the right team in place and communicating to the public about its benefits and services is important to any new business, and so The Zip Yard franchise package also includes sales and marketing materials, as well as support with staff recruitment. Quarterly franchisee emails create a sense of community, and franchisees are actively encouraged to share knowledge and support each other.
“We see our franchise owners are part of a group-wide The Zip Yard family, and we have a central marketing facility for owners to take full advantage. While owners are, of course, free to strike up their own deals and ways of working, everything can be ordered in one click from head office. Starting a new business can be overwhelming, so we try to take as much of the friction out of it as possible,” Mrs Dunning added.
“All franchisee owners become part of The Zip Yard network, and this sharing of information between more than 50 business owners is key to being successful. All franchise owners have access to a dedicated app where they can access marketing materials, link up their social channels and order stock. Quarterly franchisee emails keep everyone up to date on what’s happening across the business and provide a supportive and positive place to recognise achievements and share success. This year will mark our first annual conference, where progress and new ideas will be shared among The Zip Yard family.”
A unique opportunity
Becoming a The Zip Yard franchisee is an incredible opportunity for someone who is looking to run their own business or expand their portfolio by investing in a recognised brand and a highly successful business model.
There is no other garment alteration franchise currently operating in the UK, which means there’s a huge opportunity for franchise owners to dominate the high street offering, plus extensive opportunities to find the right location to start a The Zip Yard business.
The Zip Yard carries out a variety of services – from repairs and sizing adjustments to more bespoke tailoring and changes, offering fast and cost-efficient services for everyday and special occasion wear. The brand also works on more complicated services, such as repairs and modifications on soft furnishings, curtains, and leather. Additionally, special volume services can be provided for corporate clients.
At a glance
Established:
2005
Number of franchised outlets:
over 50
Location of units:
territories available across the UK
Investment range:
initial franchise fee: £15,000, total investment including all set up £42,000 (inc VAT)
Contact:
Neluka Dunning, managing director, The Zip Yard GB – neluka@thezipyard.com 07538 276449
