David Dunn's journey into franchising with Agency Express

I was searching another board erecting franchise I had previously met them about 12 years ago. I finally applied when I was uncertain if I would face redundancy in December 2023.

David Dunn’s journey into franchising with Agency Express began at a pivotal moment in his career. Facing the possibility of redundancy in late 2023, he revisited a career path he’d explored years earlier: Franchising. With a strong background in customer-facing roles and having previously run a Revive! franchise, David was no stranger to the demands and rewards of managing a business.

Despite his experience, the pressures of a high-stress job and the isolation of working from home for many years taken a toll.

" I struggled with a work/life balance. I worked long hours in a stressful business. I needed a change or direction, a lifestyle change as the levels of stress were beginning to affect my wellbeing."

Initially considering other franchise options, David met with DPD but realised the long-term value didn’t match his aspirations. When the opportunity to purchase an established Agency Express territory arose, he seized it.

"Buying an established business allowed me to become profitable early on and maintain an income on a level to what I was used to.”

Following extensive training, time spent with the retiring franchisee and an in-territory business launch, David still found that the first few months of the business required some personal adjustments and learning.

"Dealing with the change from a sedentary job to a physical job was challenging, this should not be underestimated by new franchisees. Especially if you are buying an existing territory. The initial workload can be overwhelming at times, until you are able to get up to pace. It took about 3 months to fully get into the groove of the business”

With the support of Agency Express Head Office and the helpful guidance of neighbouring franchisees, David quickly adapted.

"The support desk, finance, sales and marketing and other franchisees have all helped out. Everyone was on hand when needed."

Perfecting his own routine, David prefers to begin his day before sunrise.

"Being a morning person, I’m out the door by 5:30am with a full flask and packed lunch. I load the van and ready for a full day and miss the morning rush hour. I’m home each day 4pm giving me time for rest and relaxation. I love the freedom and stress-free lifestyle the business permits and some of my rural and coastal routes have spectacular scenery and magnificent sun rises.

For David customer service is a priority and delivering an efficient and speedy service is key. In under a year, he made impressive strides. He now employs a part-time family member, has reviewed and increased his pricing, secured a major client with a two-year contract and has become a service provider to his 21 year old son who works as a local estate agent.

Looking ahead, David is eager to further expand his business.

"My aim is to purchase further territories and increase my fleet of vans. In five years, I see myself taking a take back from the manual side of the business to really focus on growth and building strong partnerships with my customers."

Reflecting on his first year, David shares valuable insights:

" There is not much I would change but looking back, only, minor tweaks. I would have fitted out my unit completely differently, so spend some time planning and organising your storage, and I should have got a bookkeeper much earlier, this was a real game changer"

His advice to others considering an Agency Express franchise is simple:

"If you are not afraid of hard work, are customer-focused, and enjoy working outside all year long, then do it! It can give you a great lifestyle with minimal stress. Also, spend several days with existing franchisees to see the business at the sharp end. Watch how they plan, pick and fulfil jobs each day"

David shares his final thoughts on his overall experience as an Agency Express franchisee, from onboarding to becoming a successful business owner.

"From the first contact I have been impressed with the integrity and no-nonsense honest approach from the team at Agency Express. The onboarding process smooth and the training both effective and informative and is delivered in the classroom and in the field.

Being self-employed can be lonely but you are never on your own; from launch week support to the ongoing back-office support, it’s first class.

They’ve built a reputation for excellence—winning the best board award at ESTAS and being recognised as BFA Franchisor of the Year. That doesn’t happen by chance. They are very good at what they do."

David Dunn's story highlights how the right opportunity, combined with dedication and determination, can lead to a rewarding and thriving business.