Hemal-Manek
FM: Share with us the origin, growth and success of your brand. When, where and how did it originate?
HM: Cartridge World is now the world leader in inkjet and cartridge recharging and one of the world’s fastest growing franchises. The head office is based in Adelaide, South Australia and was founded in 1997. There are over 2000 franchised Cartridge World retail stores worldwide with presence in more than 51 countries. The Cartridge World brand, business format and product offerings are now available in the Indian Sub-Continent (India, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Nepal, Bhutan Maldives) through AFL Pvt. Ltd the leading logistics, cargo and courier company, an exclusive Master Franchisee of Cartridge World in this region. AFL with more than six decades of experience is pioneered in establishing industries and international brands like DHL Western Union Money Transfer in India. AFL through the franchise route intends to set-up a network of 250 Cartridge World stores by 2011 and aims to garner a 10% market share.
FM: What is Cartridge World’s claim to fame? Has it won any awards so far?
HM: Cartridge World’s unique business concept and franchise systems are been acknowledged and rewarded by various franchise bodies globally:
Franchisor of the Year Award (Retail B2B Greater than 100 outlets) for 2004 in Australia [Source: BRW Magazine.]
Concept of the Year – 2007 at Franchise Star Retailer Awards 2007
Best New Concept in Franchising – 2008 by Franchise Association of India
Best in Business Services category – 2008
Jury Special Award – 2009 at Reid Taylor Retail Excellence Awards
Ranked #27 amongst Top 100 Global Franchise opportunities
The Master Franchise of the Year-2009
FM: How did this concept come into being? What is the need for this service?
HM: Cartridge World operates in the fast-paced information technology environment. Advancements in information technology over the past decade have transformed business to be dependent on computers and printers. Consequently, recharging printer cartridges has become one of the fastest growing industries in the world.In servicing this market, Cartridge World has successfully provided an environmentally sound, economical solution to the growing costs of replacing printer cartridges.A recycled printer cartridge that is recharged with toner can be resold for approximately half the price of a new one, providing substantial saving with equal function. Additionally, recharging the cartridge supports local communities by reducing waste and protecting the environment.
FM: What is the eligibility criterion for taking a franchise of your company?
HM: Cartridge World selects its prospective franchisees with utmost care. We conduct a thorough due diligence before finalizing a franchisee. Some of the minimum requirements that a Cartridge World Franchisee must have are:
A high level of interest and commitment the business. Prior experience in successfully managing ones own business, preferably in the service industry A strong entrepreneurial spirit and zeal to succeed.Adequate Financial Resources Ability to manage people.A good social standing and reputation.
All our franchisees must also be:
Committed to the highest levels of service quality.Willing to undergo rigorous training and a desire to learn various aspects of managing a Cartridge World Store Genuinely interested in people and be sensitive to his neighborhood’s requirements
Location: Should have 350-400 sq ft retail space. Investment: 14 – 16L INR
FM: How many stores do you have across India of which how many are franchised?
HM: Currently we have more than 2000 stores spread in 51 countries out of which 90 stores are in India and all are franchised.
FM: What is the Franchisee Support system you offer?
HM: A well established international brand name with proven business systems
Technical know-how and ongoing access to new developments in printing technology
Initial and ongoing technical and business education training
Store Development assistance
Supply and logistics support
Comprehensive Point of Sale system ( POS)
Promotional support
Cartridge World’s ability to spend continuously on Research and Development, in the rapidly changing cartridge and ink technology
Guidelines on commissioning and pre-launch Activities
In addition to above, Cartridge World can also assist in mobilization of loans for stores in India through banks and other financial institutions
FM: How many stores have you launched in the last 3 months and what are your plans for the next 12 months?
HM: In last three months, we have signed 15 franchise stores out of which 12 stores are launched / operational. We plan to open 160 new franchised stores in the next 12 months i.e. by 2011, which will take our total numbers of stores in India to 250.
FM: What challenges are faced by a franchisee in this business?
HM: Over period of years we have experienced and seen that franchisees with sales and marketing background do better business.
FM: What is the USP of your Franchise offer from the investor point of view?
HM: I would rather say from an entrepreneur point of view! As an entrepreneur, you need the proven business concept which has experienced the varied market conditions and dynamics of different geographical locations. We have a strong franchise system where we train, provide manuals and guide on every aspects of business, franchisee needs to just implement this and exploit (market) it in his local area.FM: Is this franchise opportunity suitable for women entrepreneurs also?
HM: Absolutely! If they have flair of sales, then I assure they will generate excellent business. We have many successful women entrepreneurs / start-ups in our network.
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