7 new franchisees for Snap-on-Tools UK

Race car mechanic Stephen Lynch is one of seven rookie business partners to join the ever-growing global brand.

Stephen Lynch, who recently took the plunge to become part of Snap-on’s extensive UK network, has worked in the motor trade business for more than three decades. Starting out at the age of 16, Stephen is certainly no stranger to Snap-on merchandise, having used the brand’s tools for much of his working life.

He has worked as a race car mechanic and has risen up the ranks to become manager for a number of race teams. He admits he has always kept one eye on becoming a business owner with Snap-on Tools and now, at the age of 51, has made that decisive move.

After some careful planning, Stephen admitted it was time to jump ship: “I absolutely loved my job but I had to be realistic with myself. How much longer can I continue to run around pit lanes and administer pit stops?

“I’ve always been career and goal focussed. I’ve set targets and I’ve also wanted to enjoy life, travel, and have experiences. And you can only accomplish that if you work hard and set strong objectives.

“Becoming a Snap-on franchisee has been on my mind for around 15 years. My plan is to retire at around 60 to 65, which gives me approximately 10 to 15 years in the business.”

Snap-on Tools has been trading for more than 100 years, during which time it has become the world’s leading manufacturer and distributor of automotive tools and storage solutions. Franchisees sell their products by visiting clients and customers in their own well-stocked vans. These vehicles are often described as showrooms on wheels.

Over the decades, Snap-on Tools have won numerous awards for quality of product, as well as standard of customer service, as delivered by its qualified technicians.

Stephen added: “My favourite part of the business is getting to know customers, advising them and building relationships for the future.

“It’s not simply about selling. It’s all about finding solutions for the customers that will enhance their jobs and ultimately make them more successful too.” Stephen has become Snap-on’s business partner for Central and East Nottingham.

The company was founded in the United States in 1920, before launching its UK network almost 60 years ago. Arriving on our shores in 1965, Snap-on Tools has developed and refined its successful business model, and currently has a network of more than 400 franchisees across Great Britain and Ireland.

Globally, there are more than 4,000 partners, offering their customers in the automotive industry high-quality products and great service.

Another of the company’s new recruits is Luke Henderson from Devon. The 29-year-old, whose territory covers Plymouth and South Hams, has already made a name for himself as a Snap-on franchisee.

He has been shortlisted in the category ‘Franchisee of the Year’ at this year’s BFA (British Franchise Association) Awards ceremony. This prestigious black-tie event takes place in Birmingham on Wednesday, November 9th.

Luke says: “I hope my success encourages other young people to go for it. My ambition is to expand and grow the business, and enjoy an early retirement.”