Jim’s Mowing launched in Melbourne in mid 1989 and was highly successful in that market. The first interstate Franchisees did less well, until it was realised that a local Franchisor or Master Franchisee was necessary to provide support. After this, expansion interstate and overseas was rapid. Later, it was found that Franchisors did better when a Franchisor was appointed for their portion of the city, especially in larger cities such as Melbourne. The secret of Franchisee satisfaction was frequent phone and personal contact with someone who could provide business advice and moral support.

Franchisors are the driving force of the Jim’s system. They recruit, train and support Franchisees. They are normally responsible for only one Division, and are or have been highly successful Franchisees in that Division. In most cases, they continue to work in the field while building their Region.

Most Franchisors are drawn from the Division in which they have been a Franchisee. We look for Franchisees who make good money, generate few complaints, and show a real interest in helping others. This is usually obvious through the unpaid ‘trainer’ role, where certain Franchisees take new starters out on the road and become unofficial mentors.

Others, especially in the newer Divisions, may be recruited from another Division or outside Jim’s altogether. Selection is harder when a Franchisor has no prior history with Jim’s, but we look for people with a sound business or management background and some evidence of genuine concern and care for others.

Potential Franchisors will be approved firstly by the Divisional Franchisor, who is responsible for looking after the needs of the Division. They will then be interviewed by someone from National Office, either over the phone or in person. Finally, all going well, they will be invited to attend a four day training course in Melbourne.

Uniquely in the world of Franchising, potential Franchisors are not required to commit to the business before signing. In fact, the training course acts as a chance for both parties to get to know each other. Potential Franchisors may decide not to go ahead, and those who are felt unsuitable will not be permitted to sign.