In this issue we talk to Trevor Emms, franchisee for Berkhamsted. Trevor started in November 2005 and quickly expanded his area to cover Tring and Aylesbury as new business opportunities arose. Here, Trevor talks to us about how his varied employment history has helped him in his DOR2DOR venture and why he will never stop prospecting..

So, how did you hear about the franchise?

“I received a leaflet through the door advertising the franchise opportunity. I rang Jeff Frankling and he sent an information pack through." 

What attracted you to DOR-2-DOR?

"I was looking for something loosely related to my current job, which was working in graphic design, producing art work for point of sale. I looked at the website, read the testimonials of other franchisees and liked the people aspect of the business. There seemed to be a good structure, especially in relation to having head office back-up."

How has your employment background helped you?

"I have had more varied employment than some! Managing artwork for Dixons, and then turning my hand to graphic design; I have worked in the building trade and as a BT engineer. I also spent four years in Australia, managing operations on a 3000 acre cotton farm in the Outback. In Switzerland, I utilised my O-level woodwork and learnt how to restore antique furniture. Apart from my creative experience, the key skills I have gleaned are to be a self starter and how to trouble shoot and fix problems - all essential when running your own business. My hobby is photography and this comes in very useful when advising on imagery for marketing material."

Describe your business past and present

"I started in November 2005, running the business part-time. In January 2006 I jumped in the deep end and went full-time. I sent out A5 cards to all businesses in the High Street. I went into estate agents and other businesses and introduced myself and the concept of the DOR-2-DOR and asked them whether they had considered leafleting. Most people were interested and I left information with them. My first clients were an estate agent and a home improvement specialist, both of whom were pleased with the response they received. I sent a mailshot to 100 various businesses. When expanding my area to Aylesbury I found canvassing with Jeff was a useful exercise. I picked up significant business, from hairdressers, pizza outlets, estate agents, window companies and a play group to name but a few. There was a competitor here Swift Delivery which did not seem to be delivering a good level of service; hence they were looked for an alternative."

And the future is….?

"My area now covers Berkhamstead, Tring and Aylesbury. For the New Year I have orders from a sports centre, property management and cleaning company. It went a little quiet in the summer but now we have a fairly steady flow of business. The main lesson I have learnt is never to stop prospecting, so I continue to send mail shots regularly by post or email. I want to establish a strong client base which gives us regular, repeat business. I am encouraged by the way things are going. From a slow start, we are speeding along."