Countrywide Signs Boston gets a new franchise owner

Michael Langford became the new franchisee of Countrywide Signs Boston at the beginning of March

Coming from a background in sales in motor trade, Michael Langford is a perfect example of what it takes to build a business. The practicalities of a sign erector are easy to teach, however, recognising how to grow a profitable business needs to be second nature. He’s a great example of what’s needed to succeed as a Countrywide Signs franchisee.

Director Justin Pearce says: “Michael brings a wealth of sales experience, enthusiastic professionalism, and a positive can-do attitude to the territory and has big plans to develop the territory above and beyond its previous success. We wish Michael much success and our continued support as he embarks on his Countrywide Signs journey.”

After completing his franchise training and practical induction at the end of February, Michael became the new owner of Countrywide Signs Boston at the beginning of March. He took over from Dave and Dan Jordan who left the network in late 2022 due to health concerns.

The business package sits somewhere between a resale and greenfield opportunity due to the nature of the change in ownership. Michael has access to a proportion of the original customers from the previous owners, however, there is a great opportunity to promote his offering to other prospects within the territory.

Michael has this to say about his experience so far: “There has been a lot to get to grips with on the business side, however, there’s no starting from scratch like if I were to start a business on my own. There’s a tried and tested structure to follow and online systems for both agents to place orders and for me to manage planning and fulfilment which is definitely a massive help.

“Training was very thorough and if I have any questions there’s always someone on the other end of the phone to help. I have a nice balance of existing agents like Newton Fallowell Grantham, Tony Ruby and Buckley Wand to erect signs for as a starting point and prospects in the area to contact and build relationships which I’ve already made a start with. The sales side comes quite naturally to me having worked in sales and management for many years and I enjoy being back to the days of face-to-face visits to talk shop.”

It’s early days for Michael, but he’s proving to be a great example of a franchisee with the drive to learn and the ability to utilise his existing skill set to further develop and grow his new business.