Brian & Christine Small, LJS Seafood, Rotorua Central 

We were looking for a change of direction in 2000 and saw the Rotorua LJS Seafood Franchise advertised in the paper.  We have always enjoyed the food so we decided to investigate.  We had good results from the investigation and have bought and run the franchise since August 2000.  We found the budget plans reasonably accurate, with a range of possible turnovers and budgets for each. 

Being part of the group has time and cost advantages through bulk purchasing, and the Head office responsibility for pricing,  promotions and  the display material,  the bulk buying of  stock.  For us these benefits outweigh the  franchise fee costs, and enable us to focus on the actual running of our business. 

The other main advantage of the franchise is that the brand is more widely known than we could manage as an individual business.  This means that many out of town people who come to our Foodcourt are familiar with and well-disposed towards the brand.

We are happy to talk about our experience further if necessary.