#SAFranchiseFriday featuring 3@1 Business Centre

BACKGROUND
3@1 Business Centre is a South African born and bred franchise concept headed by founding member Chris Dunn with the support of his wife, Belinda Dunn, in her capacity as Franchise Sales Director.

Serving the small and micro business sector, 3@1 have established themselves as a leader in the provision of print to go, courier and Kodak Express services. The support offered by the franchisor team and their broad range of products and services mean that this concept appeals to would-be business owners from all walks of life.

New developments confirmed for 2017 include the conversion of 26 PostDotNet group stores in Zambia as well as two new 3@1 stores in Namibia. The franchisor has also secured a Memorandum of Agreement to establish a 3@1 outlet in the United Kingdom, South East of London.

THE CONCEPT
The 3@1 Business Services franchise concept offers a retail opportunity in the business and communications industry that delivers consultative, personalised service in a professional, user-friendly environment.

Boasting cemented partnerships with DHL International and the Kodak International Express photographic provider, the 3@1 service offering encompasses DHL Express Easy, counter-to-counter local courier, Kodak Express services, ID and Visa photos, and business and broad format print. The company recently expanded their service offering to include business registrations and many SARS-related services.

3@1 Promotes owner-operated stores with an initial staff complement of two team members to support the franchisee.

Applicants have a choice of three business formats ranging from a stand-alone full store measuring 60 to 80sqm, to an express store option occupying 30 to 45sqm and the recently introduced store-within-a-store kiosk concept requiring only 20sqm. The kiosk option is aimed at existing sites that have extra retail space, for example inside video stores, fuel stations or independent food retailers. 

FRANCHISOR SUPPORT
The 3@1 franchise is a full turnkey offering. Franchisees enjoy the support of the head office team every step of the way; from site selection to securing the lease, then through the planning phase to store set-up, training, and the eventual store opening.

Introductory training for new franchisees is compulsory and takes place in an existing outlet before store opening. The training incorporates an overview of the 3@1 business model, marketing and advertising, store operations, merchandising, customer service and management techniques as well as inventory, cost accounting, and general business procedures. After the store opening the franchise team spends a further five to seven days in-store with the franchisee to ensure they and their staff are proficient and comfortable.

FRANCHISEE PROFILE
3@1 Is looking for innovative thinkers, young and old, with entrepreneurial drive to join its thriving network. Retail and/or management experience will be advantageous but is not mandatory. An outgoing personality and a desire to support and service business owners and consumers, are key.

SNAPSHOT

HISTORY
Founder: Chris Dunn
Year founded: 1999
Area of origin: Tyger Valley, Western Cape
CEO: Chris Dunn

NETWORK
1st SA franchise opened: 1999
Number of SA outlets: 68

FRANCHISE AGREEMENT
Management fee: 3% of turnover
Marketing fee: R1 000 pm
Agreement term: 10 Years
Renewal term: 10 Years

FINANCIALS
* Amounts quoted are VAT exclusive
Establishment cost: R595 000 to R650 000
Franchise joining fee: R65 000
Working capital required: R120 000
TOTAL average set-up cost: From R780 000
Average monthly turnover: Available on request
Achievable gross margins: Available on request

WANT TO KNOW MORE?
Contact Belinda Dunn on 0861 359 834 or visit www.3at1.co.za