FRANCHISE OVERVIEW

Bergen’s Appliance Repairs & Spares is a one-of-a-kind opportunity that sets itself apart in an industry that often has customers frustrated with lack of service. Franchisor, Adriaan van Bergen created the brand eight years ago and franchised it five years ago with the express purpose of bridging the gap between the service expected and the service delivered in the industry.


This is an exciting business opportunity for men and women. Serving the domestic appliance repair market, Bergen’s focus is on A and B income consumers where average households have 15 to 25 appliances. Each franchise gets a sizeable return on their investment with gross profits for branch owners averaging between 75% and 85% per year. This is attributed to the concept’s proven business model which is backed by a strong marketing drive and a high level of brand visibility.


It’s Bergen’s unique time and place scheduling that sets the franchise apart in the market place. Bergen’s promises a 20-to-48-hour turnabout repair service. Usually appliance repairs take three to six weeks. Bergen’s stores are located in small community centres providing easy access to the consumer. These locations also help to keep rents low.


There are no specialised or technical skills required. Franchisees are given full training and ongoing support to ensure that their businesses are successful. At least five of the franchises – husband and wife teams – are run by women. The growth in the number of franchises has been phenomenal and now sits at a total of 20, with branches around the country. Starting with three corporate branches initially, in 2004, sales of franchised outlets had averaged at about three per year. But seven sold for 2009.


The franchise is available as a B-Grade branch for R350 000 or A-Grade for R450 000. Both franchises are turnkey operations. Franchisees are fully supported with ongoing training and qualified staff selected by Bergen’s head office.