From redundancy to becoming a franchisee with Agency Express

After being made redundant, Sam Ralph began exploring franchise opportunities online and attended the Franchise Show at the NEC. His search led him to Agency Express, where the combination of low running costs and strong earning potential made the decision an easy one.

I considered multiple franchise opportunities, but I was always brought back to the Agency Express due to the low running costs of the business against the earning potential and the support offered to franchisees.

Before joining Agency Express in 2024, Sam had a successful career as an Operations Manager in Facilities Management. Managing a large contract that covered 900 convenience stores from Sheffield to Dover and Central London. He also held senior management positions in customer-facing financial services, where he gained experience in leadership and business development.

Sam had long wanted to work for himself and be responsible for his own success.

I had always wanted to break away from being a salaried employee and not rely on the backing of an employer. Upon enquiring with Agency Express, there was in fact a resale opportunity available in my area, and the existing business was established and trading successfully. This gave me the extra confidence I needed to proceed.

From training through to launch of the business Sam has seized every opportunity, and when faced with challenges he took them in his stride and leant into the expertise and support provided by the Agency Express team.

Head office are always at the end of the phone or email to help when you need support. I have had guidance when bringing on new agents, been assisted with organising my stock, advised on how to reorder board supplies, had additional marketing and business support when needed, and when I have had to overcome challenges in the volume of work, they have been there to help me manage and prioritise things. I have also had great support from other local franchisees who are always at the end of the phone to chat things through and share their knowledge and best practice.

Despite this, Sam quickly found his feet and created a daily routine that worked for him and his business.

A typical day for me is leaving home around 7:30 in the morning. I complete between 60-80 jobs a day, typically returning to my board store around 3pm to load my van for the next day. I usually have around an 8-9 hour working day.

12 months in and starting with 54 branches, Sam expanded his business to 84 branches in just seven months – far exceeding his initial projections.

I projected in my business plan to be where I am now at the end of Y2. So am excited to see where I can take the business moving forwards.

Like any new business owner, Sam faced challenges in his first few months. The first hurdle was psychological barrier.

My only challenge I bought upon myself, by being over analytical of my own performance in the role. I had to ensure I switched off at the end of the day, to stop trying to do too much, for example clearing my pending jobs list to 0 every day.

However, Sam’s biggest challenge within the business came when a local competitor went into administration, resulting in an influx of new customers. With the help of the Head Office team and fellow franchisees, he navigated this challenge by expanding his operation, adding a second vehicle, and by reaching out to the competitor he was able offer full-time position to one of their employees that had been made redundant.

This was an extremely fast period of growth – a now or never moment in my business. This this is where being part of a franchise really comes into play. There is always someone to talk to in the network who has faced the same or a similar challenge before. The important thing is ensuring you seek support when you need it.

Sam’s ambition continues to drive his business forward.

I now have two vans on the road completing over 100 jobs a day and a goal of adding a third van by early 2026.
In the next five years, Sam also envisions stepping into a more operational role, managing a team of drivers rather than being on the road himself.

For those considering a franchise, Sam’s advice is clear.

Complete your due diligence – no question is a stupid question. Pick up the phone, seek out those already running a franchise, and ask questions. Always take the opportunity to meet with the head office team and go out and experience the day to day with the franchisee whose territory you are looking to purchase.

Reflecting on his journey, he has only one regret.

I only wish that the opportunity had come for me sooner.

Sam’s journey with Agency Express is a testament to what can be achieved through dedication and the support of a strong franchise network. His rapid growth and commitment to excellence make him a shining example of franchise success.