Peter Lay, franchisee for High Wycombe. Prior to setting up his DOR-2-DOR franchise in October 2002, Peter started a compatible ink cartridge business, after working as a general manager for a telecommunications company. Here, Peter talks to us about his experiences and why he’s looking forward to developing his DOR-2-DOR business.

So, how did you hear about the franchise Peter?

“I had used the local newspapers to deliver leaflets for a previous venture and I was very disappointed with the results, so when I started my inkjet business I carried out an internet search on leaflet distribution. I found DOR-2-DOR’s website and saw they had Franchise Opportunities and there didn’t seem to be much competition in the area.

What attracted you to DOR-2-DOR?

“It looked a very professional operation which led me to decide to meet Jeff the Franchisor. Jeff was very good at explaining how it worked and I saw the opportunity to build a business. I was also attracted by the fact that there was a flexible fee arrangement for the franchise and in all, the proposition looked very viable.

How has your employment background helped you?

Previously I was a general manager for a telecommunications company, and specialised in purchasing and logistics. My role was mainly co-ordination and relied on being able to establish good relationships with the people who worked for, and alongside me. In 2001 following redundancy, I worked as purchasing manager for a Maidenhead company on a temporary contract. My experience means that I am skilled at finding suppliers and co-ordinating deliveries and my workforce. Face-to-face selling was where my exposure was more limited.

Describe your first six months…

“My biggest challenge was initially finding reliable deliverers. I did a fair bit myself in the early days until I had recruited deliverers and advertised for business using the leaflet drops and Yellow Pages. My first customers were Zenith Windows, taxi’s companies and a local member of a chain of hardware stores. Next came a number of fitness clubs and I now have a regular client base, which I am looking to expand.

And the future is….?

Attracting more clients to sign up on a contract basis and building more monthly repeat business. My focus is on growth and building relationships with the local business community. I have recently joined a Business Referral Exchange networking group, where I get the opportunity to meet other business owners to help me achieve this. I want to raise awareness of my business and utilise my existing client relationships for mutual benefit. 
I’m looking forward to 2006 because I am moving into a new office and I am more motivated than ever before to take my business forward.