The UK’s first and only mobile fishing tackle and bait franchise, Mildenhall based Tackle Trailer, has announced the launch of its inaugural franchisee-operated mobile store.
Based in Bury St Edmunds, Mark will be responsible for developing his own exclusive sales territory, and for recruiting and supporting new franchisees throughout East Anglia.
He says, “I’d been in my current job for a little over five years, and I was ready for a change. When the opportunity came up to run my own business, working in a sport that’s brought me so much pleasure, it was a no-brainer.
“I’ve already lined up several venues (we call them ‘tackle stops’) for the new store. And now I can’t wait to get started.”
Established in 2011, the Tackle Trailer team has spent over three years refining its business model, and of course its trade mark Tackle Trailers.
The company aims to recruit a further 18 franchisees, over the next two years.
Managing Director Steve Calder explains, “We set out to fill the gap created by so many High Street store closures – by offering the convenience, personal service and local knowledge you’d expect from a traditional store with the kinds of prices you’d usually associate only with an online business.
“We have the backing of several major wholesalers and other key suppliers, enabling our franchisees to carry a range of competitively priced tackle, fresh and frozen bait – and to benefit from the sale of other top-brand kit via our ecommerce store.”
Tackle Trailer is not, however, for everyone – as Tackle Trailer Director Carol Aykin is quick to point out.
She explains, “Our franchisees don’t need either retail or sales experience. But they do have to have a genuine passion for the sport; to share our high service standards; and to be able to get along with people.
“There are lots of early starts, it’s quite hard work – and let’s be honest: we aren’t going to become millionaires any time soon: this is, after all, a lifestyle business.
“But for the right applicants we offer a genuine opportunity to make a good living in what is, after all, a great industry to work in.”
