Music Bugs
Franchise

Description of Company:

A flexible and family-friendly business running your own lively and interactive music and singing classes for the under 5’s.  Our play-based and interactive classes have proven to be a big hit around the UK with franchisees enjoying high demand for their weekly classes, nursery and preschool sessions, merchandise sales and birthday parties. In 2008 we were voted as the UK’s Best Music Class in the What’s On 4 Little One’s Awards and in 2009 we have been nominated in a further 4 categories.

Work Description:

Choose to work part-time during the school term or expand your business further to a more full time opportunity. The choice is yours!

Investment required:

£7,500

Ongoing financial commitment:

Ongoing Management fees payable on a per class basis but holiday classes and birthday parties are exempt!

Earning Potential:

Variable according to the number of classes that you choose to run. Financial forecasts available upon request.

Experience Needed:

No specific experience required but you must have a warm and friendly personality and be able to inspire and encourage young minds.

Training & Support:

Full training and ongoing support provided. Extensive start up marketing package including £500.00 worth of advertising, marketing materials, press releases and website. Very large start up package of instruments, equipment and props.

Car required:

Yes

Storage Required:

Yes

Additional information:

Contact Details:

Claire Bennett. 0844 578 1010 info@musicbugs.co.uk
www.musicbugs.co.uk

Name: Heather Williamson

Family: married to Lee  and have 3 boys aged Connor 14, Sam 8 and Alex 3

Background/experience/previous job.
Trained as a gymnastic coach and qualified as the youngest coach in the north east (many years ago!) trained gymnasts up to regional level. Qualified as a nursery nurse but moved on to childminding as it fitted in with my family.

What made you choose a Music Bugs franchise?
I wanted to run a music class as I had been disappointed in all the classes I had attended with Alex. I looked in to the franchises available and it was Music Bugs that caught my attention. I loved the branding and no other class offered what Music Bugs did. The classes were so much fun the props were amazing, i knew that mums and dads in my area would love the classes.  As soon as I spoke to Claire it was obvious that the support from Head office would be fantastic which was what I needed!

How long have you been running your Music Bugs Franchise?
Started in June, 8 months

Can you tell us a little about your very first classes and how it felt to be launching?
I was so excited about my launch, I still couldn’t quite believe I had actually gone through with it! I practiced my session over and over so I knew I was ready as I could be. I did make a few mistakes (which seemed to go unnoticed!) and  I fumbled with the CD player but I loved every minute. I have never looked back since. My family keep telling me how proud they are of me (especially my hubby!) It’s given me such a boost. I couldn’t have done any of it with out the support I’ve had from Claire and the other franchisees.

6/12 months on, how are things going?
Great. I’m really busy. I’ve reach my 100^th enrollment and the feedback I have received has been wonderful. Watching the children develop, gain in confidence and have fun each week has been incredible.

Are you worried about the current economic climate/do you think it will have an impact on your business?
I did worry but it hasn’t affected me at all. I still get loads of enquires and my classes continue to grow. Word of mouth has been the most powerful form of advertising. Hopefully it will continue and my business will keep growing.

If you could do it all again, is there anything you would do differently?
I have been trying to think of something but there’s nothing I would have done differently! My class numbers are far better that I thought they would be, and I can honestly say I’ve never been happier.

Can you tell us about the highs (and lows) of running your own business?
Picking my hours to fit in with my family is great, I’m working really hard but it’s for my benefit.

What plans do you have for the next 6 months?
I’m planning to employ a class leader (or two) to ensure that the business can continue to grow. I have so many plans and opportunities to develop the business further so I will be great to get a good team of Class Leaders on board.

Would you recommend this franchise to others?
With out a doubt! It’s the best move I ever made. Claire is always at hand with help and support as are the other franchisees.