“I love making a difference through creativity”

For Anne Crump, running an enterprise that brings arts and crafts to communities is richly rewarding. Find out how a franchise with The Creation Station could become your secret to career contentment, too

Anne Crump used to combine a career as a teacher alongside running her own catering company. After juggling these two very different roles, Anne was ready for a change and decided to combine her passion for making a difference in people’s lives with running her own business.

Anne says: “I wanted to work at something that was fun, positive and fulfilling. I decided to invest in a franchise business in order to benefit from a tried and tested business model and a leading brand.

“I’d run my previous catering business as a sole trader and therefore I knew it can get lonely at times. I could see the value of having support in place and being part of a bigger team.

“I first looked at The Creation Station in 2011, and although it stood out, the timing wasn’t right for me. When I started exploring new business ideas in 2021, it was fantastic to see that The Creation Station was still flourishing, providing a first-class service along with many more income streams for franchisees.”

A clear purpose

The Creation Station inspires imaginations and nurtures potential for all ages through award-winning art and craft classes, clubs, parties and events. Over 1.5 million children and adults have been inspired to date by over 70 franchise partners. Customers have rated The Creation Station as the most recommended arts and crafts activity company in the UK.

“I wanted to work flexibly, run a successful business and scale at my own pace, but it was so important to me that I was also making a difference and supporting my local community in West Cheshire,” explains Anne. “I’m proud to deliver our brand values and make a difference.”

Training and support

“Creative art and crafts activities are important at all stages of life,” she continues. “The Creation Station adapted and responded brilliantly to the challenges during the pandemic, to the point where I decided to train and launch my business during the pandemic. I’ve three wonderful grown-up kids and my daughter Millie had been travelling during COVID and had to self-isolate in a hotel on her return. The support team tailored our training so that Millie could train too while self-isolating!

Added value and business growth

“Being part of The Creation Station family gives me more marketing clout through its national branding and vast support network. I value the day-to-day support of such a large team, which includes the support office, our business development managers and my fellow franchisees. My husband frequently comments on how helpful everyone is. I find being part of something positive and bigger than yourself is very motivating.”

Sustainable model

Anne’s business has taken off much quicker than she thought. She now runs local parent and baby keepsake classes, preschool STEAM classes, after school clubs, holiday camps, parties, adult workshops and events. “I have a lovely mix of activities to offer and I’m building relationships with local families and businesses, too,” she concludes. “I love running my inspiring business and making a difference through creativity.”

At a glance

Established:

2002

Number of franchised outlets:

70

Location of units:

UK

Investment range:

£6,000-£13,200

Minimum required capital:

£1,000

Contact:

Ruth Morris, operations manager 01395 239700/07983 492281