Geoff established his business in 2002. Prior to setting up with DOR-2-DOR Geoff worked as an IT contractor in sales and marketing.

So, how did you hear about the franchise Geoff?

“I was an IT contractor with an interest in a mobile dog grooming parlour in Luton. We approached Jeff to promote the business, the result was quite successful. I was looking for something new to do, spoke to Jeff, and decided take the franchise for Milton Keynes.

What attracted you to DOR-2-DOR?

“I could run the business from home and didn't need to have an office. I saw the opportunity to use skills acquired in my previous career, principally man management. The business seemed straight forward and being part of a bigger network was attractive.

How has your employment background helped you?

“Organisational skills and being a 'systems man'. In my last contract I was Sales and Marketing Director and created the operations manual. I started my working life by selling computers, these experiences have given me a good grounding in business.

Describe your first six months…

“Hectic, it was very busy almost from day one. At the start you have to be prepared to break even and I did some deliveries myself in the early stages. This way you build up customers and a lot of referral business. I joined the Chamber of Commerce, the Business Referral Exchange and other networking clubs. Cold calling didn’t phase me, more often than not the reaction was “I wish I'd known about you before.” Everyone needs to raise and maintain awareness of their business. Fast food outlets were the first group I targeted, with competitive outlets rife their businesses can die if they don't leaflet. They provide a constant market and the best back checking, due to the excellent response rate. Other long standing clients include an estate agent, a local gym and the local parish council.

And the future is….?

Printing and delivering is lucrative. As long as people are getting the quality of service and a reasonable cost they won't shop around. 
Three years later the business practically runs itself. I don't advertise anymore. Two years ago due to injury, my wife stepped in and took over the business. The business suffered slightly as a result of my incapacity but we are still going strong, and delivering 180,000 leaflets every month. Now we have a new exciting venture, delivering a community publication in conjunction with the on-line information portal MK.com. With over 100k households and businesses to deliver to, the business opportunity is significant.
This business gives me freedom. If I was 25 years old I would take on the world. The corner stone of the business is the quality of your deliverers. I have grown my delivery force through back checking leaflets and advertisements in the paper. Some want to keep fit, some want to earn money. I separate people into groups, some deliver, some pack the leaflets, some do both. My best deliverer is a lady called Ivy, 73 who distributes 1000 leaflets a week.