Irish Master Franchise opportunity in gadget heaven

Following 18 years of successful trading in the UK market, Complete Entertainment eXchange (CeX) is eager to replicate its success in the Republic of Ireland by way of a Master Franchise. CeX is primarily looking to recruit an Area Developer, who possesses a passion for entertainment products and has the experience and ability to operate a minimum of three stores initially. The successful Area Developer will then take on the Master Franchise licence and spearhead the brand's development throughout the Republic of Ireland.

To date CeX has 115 stores operating across its UK network, 57 of which are franchised. CeX's international aspirations have led to seven additional corporate stores in the USA and three in Spain. CeX's popularity has continued to grow, even during the economic downturn, and this is because the brand buys and sells second-hand goods from seven different product lines which include DVDs, video games, CDs, mobile phones, vision, computing and electronic products.

CeX Marketing Manager John Cronin explains: "A downturn in the economy encourages people to seek value for money, which is great news for CeX. Our business works well when the economy is strong, but has a natural boost when times are a little more uncertain. In a downturn more people start to clear out their old, unwanted items and bring them to CeX and this greater supply of items allows us greater margins and price flexibility. This means we can increase profit margins and/or drop prices to become even more competitive.

"The main attraction for our customers is value for money. They like to buy second-hand items because they are cheaper than buying them new. In addition, at CeX, there is the added peace of mind that they can inspect the goods before they buy and receive a 12-month warranty on items they buy from us. At CeX, we trade in a focused yet complementary range of digital electronics and entertainment products. The customer experience is not that of a general second hand store with rowing machines next to dolls and crockery: CeX is an enticing Alddin's Cave of gadgets and games."

Written by Jess Sturman

The prospective Master Franchise Owner must have:

• Experience of operating multiple retail units and/or substantial management experience.
• Marketing, sales and recruitment experience.
• €500,000 investment.
• An existing operational team or possess the ability to create one.

In return, the Master Franchise Owner will have access to the CeX tried and tested business model, bespoke IT systems and a comprehensive training and support package. This includes an intensive training course and ongoing support from head office.

With a CeX Master Franchise Package the Master Franchise Owner will benefit from:

• Continual programme of research to ensure that you are kept abreast of developments in the marketplace. We have the products, marketing, commercial presence, competitive pricing and analysis to form a strategy to maintain the strongest position possible.
• A comprehensive and well-structured ongoing training programme.
• Regular communication & visits for analysis, advice and guidance on your business.
• Bespoke Epos till & Franchise Manuals system (support and updating as may be necessary).
• Online systems, assistance and training on franchise owner marketing & recruitment.
• Intranet and helpline facility for advice on all aspects of the complete business method.
• Potential operating profit of €450,000 pa within three years.