Rapid growth for telecoms provider

Business-to-business telecommunications has been one of the success stories of the UK economy over the last 20 years. And while the lifecycles of devices like mobile phones may have long since matured, the rapid turnover of replacement technologies and systems has maintained robust growth, particularly among service providers.

An 18-year industry veteran, Nick Underwood-Lea has been through the ups and downs of telecoms and is now using his vast experience and contacts to grow his own franchise network. The former Vodafone and Coldwell Group salesman launched Fone Solutions in March 2006 with his wife, Emily, from a spare room in their Tyneside home. Last year, the company moved to a new head office in Gateshead and turnover from more than 350 customers reached £1.3 million. "We've had a fantastic two years," says Mr Underwood-Lea.

He now has begun to offer franchise opportunities around the UK. Around four have already been awarded, and he hopes to have another 20 or so set up by the end of the year.

Set-up costs are relatively low - the initial investment will be only around £3,000-£4,000 - but then, financial clout will not be the deciding factor when choosing franchisees.

"I want a select group who will be able to sit around a table together and help each other. They need to have the drive to succeed," he says, adding that experience in B2B telecoms would be a distinct advantage.

"We're looking for people that come with strong sales backgrounds and good customer service skills to set up our franchises. We can then give them the necessary tools and support to do the rest. If they want to succeed we can make it happen - and we have the results to prove it."

Franchisees will receive in-depth training from existing sales people as well as branded sales material, ongoing support from customer service staff and access to existing sales leads. "The success of our first four franchises has been phenomenal and we want to replicate this with hardworking and enthusiastic individuals across the UK," he adds.

Fone Solutions offers businesses the latest in data and telecoms services, ensuring that small and medium sized enterprises have a completely integrated approach to communications.

It provides a full range of products from all networks and all leading manufacturers.

Investment level: £3,000-£4,000
Email: franchise@fone-solutions.co.uk
Phone: 07947 858678
Franchise classification: Telecommunications