Mark Elliot
Probably one of the most professional retail franchises in the UK

If you're looking for an instant start in high-end, high street retail franchising look no further. Combining traditional and contemporary 'name-brand' furniture, a lushly fitted-out store design and affordable pricing Mark Elliot is a highly elegant retail brand. Rachel Spaul and Stuart Anderson report

Heralded as 'probably one of the most professional retail franchises in the UK' by experienced franchise specialist Roy Seaman of Franchise Development Services, Mark Elliot is receiving interest from enthusiastic entrepreneurs from around the UK. An instant start in high-end, high street retail franchising, a £5 billion market, quality products and access to the franchisor's years of industry experience are just a few of the benefits proving attractive to candidates. Mark Elliot has developed its concept out of the tremendously popular furniture designs of its namesake founder to establish eight company-owned stores. The first franchise has been awarded to Italian businessman Salvo Liberante in Belfast and more aspiring retail professionals are being sought for other prime UK locations.

'More important than experience is attitude,' explains founder Mark Elliot. 'We are looking for people with a positive outlook, an eye for style and a good feeling for furniture - we supply everything else within our training programme. With a tried, tested and a proven business format, plus full support from the Mark Elliot team, every new franchisee can make an impact in their region quickly.'

The Mark Elliot retail concept combines traditional and contemporary 'name-brand' furniture, a lushly fitted-out store design and affordable pricing making it a hit with consumers. 'We have learned how to create a showroom ambience that helps promote the sales process,' Mark reveals. 'This is not high pressure selling, it is simply offering help and guidance where needed. There is a ready market for high-quality, high-value furniture products across the country. New franchisees can help us to supply this untapped market.'

Mark is seeking individuals who desire to take control of their future with a franchise and has, with the assistance of professional franchise consultancy Franchise Development Services, created a vehicle for success. 'Our franchise model, constructed with the assistance of a leading franchise consultant, works successfully for the benefit of all - franchisor, franchisee and customer,' assures Mark.

The package includes showroom design and installation, display stock, full training to handle all aspects of a new business, stationery, marketing materials and bespoke software. 'Our training programme covers all aspects of the Mark Elliot business, from product knowledge through to business and retail procedures,' Mark pledges. 'Initial training for the franchisee and staff will take place at our head office training centre, our training showroom and onsite at the franchisee's furniture showroom. As the business develops, additional training will be scheduled as necessary.'

When the franchisee has completed the training, a specially designed launch programme is in place to guide the opening of the business, followed by the provision of ongoing local, regional and national marketing and promotional programmes. 'We advise on suitable locations and assist with negotiating the lease, provide guidance on shop fitting, cooperate on initial stock selection and help with setting up displays,' Mark adds. 'Additionally, our experts will make regular visits to monitor progress and assist in achieving business targets. We want every franchisee to be very successful and by retailing our unique range of products that customers are keen to have in their homes, they will discover that quality always tells and quality always sells.'

It is the company's commitment to affordably priced quality that makes it such an exciting proposition. Mark Elliot employs a loyal battalion of well-trained craftsmen who keep franchisees supplied with the highest quality furniture. 'A closer look at any product reveals each piece to be handmade to a craftsman's finish,' Mark emphasises. 'We are very particular about the quality of our furniture, and still use traditional construction, veneering and polishing methods that have stood the test of time.'

The British furniture industry is estimated at £5 billion, and with the popularity of home development in the UK its growth is set to continue unabated.

Requiring an initial investment of between £70,000 and £90,000, including working capital, the Mark Elliot franchise represents a low cost entry into a low price, high quality retail concept.

With one franchise awarded and a number of candidates showing serious interest, Mark Elliot has laid the solid foundations for establishing a business format franchise network in the UK.