This month we talk to Fiona Simpson from Artventurers, who's found a way to build a flexible arty business around family life....

Fiona was recently named Woman Franchisor of the Year 2018 to go alongside her other awards; Overall Top Franchise and Most Supportive Franchise 2017!

Who’s typically suited to being an ARTventurers franchisee?

Our ARTventurers franchisees come from all sorts of backgrounds but all have the same motivation – they’re looking to build a flexible business around family life. We’re looking for people to join our franchise team who are creative, energetic, great with people (big and small!) and with the drive and ambition to own their own business

What are the benefits of being an ARTventurers franchisee?

We’re a multi-award winning brand – having won awards both for our classes and parties and for our unique franchise package – so anyone joining us benefits from joining a team with an excellent reputation for delivering high quality activities all centred around aiding children’s learning and development through art and creative play. Our flexible approach to franchising supports our franchisees to build a business that really suits their needs and the needs of their family (we know those needs change over time!) – it’s a chance to create a career that really makes you smile. And the benefits of being part of a supportive team really are invaluable when you’re looking to become self-employed.

And what about your business model?

Our franchise package is a unique one – which is why we have won so many awards including Overall Top Franchise and Most Supportive Franchise 2017! We have a transparent pricing structure, a collaborative approach to working which values our franchisees own creativity, and we invest heavily in support for the team. Our franchisees have the opportunity to develop a number of different income streams in their business.

What training and support are available?

We have an in house training programme for all new ARTventurers franchisees together with a comprehensive ongoing training and support programme. We offer a unique marketing mentoring programme for all new team members and offer opportunities for career progression within the brand for those franchisees who show a real interest and flair in the business development side of the business

What hours would I have to work?

Your ARTventurers business is your own business so our franchisees choose their own hours of work around family life. Most franchisees run some classes mid week for babies and toddlers and then choose if they want to run additional work like parties and events at weekends

What has been your own experience returning to work?

ARTventurers was inspired by my own two children! I was a solicitor before I had them and I started the business because I wanted a fun, flexible way of working around them. I’m so proud that ARTventurers is now able to offer other mums the same opportunities. My proudest moment so far was when I was named Woman Franchisor of the Year 2018 – it really showed how far the team has grown. And I still work around my own two children!

What would be the number one bit of advice you would give a mum who is looking to become part of a bigger business?

Do your research. There are so many opportunities out there. It’s about finding something that you’re passionate about obviously, but also making sure that the business you’re looking to join is an open and supportive one – it’s the support and assistance that you’re going to get once you’ve signed on the dotted line that’s important! Speak to existing franchisees and find out what it’s like on the inside.

How can I find out more?

We have a website www.artventurers.co.uk and a franchise website too where you can download our franchise information pack www.artventurersfranchise.co.uk
I always love to chat so anyone can feel free to drop me a line at fiona@artventurers.co.uk with any questions too