From working in the business to Owning the Business

Written on the 8 June 2017

Martin Davies migrated from England in the late 1980's and pretty much started off from scratch.

Beginning his journey by working with roof tilers, Martin started looking for a job that offered more stability. He secured himself a position with Bathroom Werx as a Technician.

After a number of years as an employee Technician, a Franchise opportunity arose in Melbourne and he jumped at the chance to own his own business doing work he really enjoyed.

Ten year later, Martin has married, built his own home, and now has two children. And he has also trained two apprentices along the way.

He feels Australia has really been the lucky country for him!

After speaking with Martin, here's what he had to say:

1. What attracted you to a Bathroom Werx Franchise?

"I'm always looking for something better and wanted more stability in my working life. Bathroom Werx offered me this within their large network giving me the opportunity to be in business for myself but not by myself".

2. How have you found the challenge of fixing bathrooms compared to what you used to do?

"Compared to what I used to do in the UK, fixing bathrooms is much easier! I say this because I used to repair and spray office equipment working on a production line. The work was intense and fast and extremely monotonous. Repairing and re-enameling bathrooms is far easier and a thousand times more rewarding. The pace is so much better and the end result is satisfying to see the reactions and joy of your Customers!"

3. What are the good things about being a partner in the Bathroom Werx Franchise System?

"The good thing about being part of the Bathroom Werx franchise system is the opportunity to expand while working within an established company that's been around for over 25 years!

You also get the support you need at all times and also the kind of support that keeps your business running in the times when perhaps you are not. If I was out on my own and I suddenly stopped working for whatever reason, my business would stop!

So having the back up and support has been a major advantage and a big positive for me being part of the Bathroom Werx System!"

4. What are the negatives?

"I can't really think of the negatives because I never work from that frame of mind!" 

5. What made you decide to take on an apprentice?

"Taking on an apprentice came about from the fact that I had injured myself and so having an apprentice meant my business continued and I was able to supervise my apprentice. It was actually the best thing that I have done."

6. How are you finding managing an employee?

"Really good, because I think it pays to work alongside someone as it motivates you and spurs you on to keep achieving and doing better. It does make a difference and it gives you encouragement to want to keep growing!" 

7. What are your plans for the future?  

"I would like to grow my business to a point where I don't have to be doing the actual work and I can manage my guys. I plan to have five apprentices eventually who once trained will be qualified technicians working for me. This will then free me up to expand my own horizons, perhaps go back to study?"

If you would like more information about the Bathroom Franchise opportunities that are available in your area, call 1800-644-171 and ask for a Franchise Information Package to be rushed out to you. Or you can get one here on the Bathroom Werx website.

Read other Bathroom Werx franchise success stories here.