Husband and wife team, Steve and Anita, from Norwich had been working apart for the past 8 years.
We have been business owners before, so we are both aware of the challenges and work required. Perseverance and hard work, as well as a positive and enthusiastic attitude, are traits we both have.
We are ready to start working together again and build something of our own.
Failure is not an option and is not a part of our, or We Love Pets’, vocabulary!
Why did you choose a franchise over setting up your own business?
We wanted to be part of a successful team, the time frame from idea to launch would be so much longer if we were to do it from scratch on our own, so the launch time and the level of support across from We Love Pets was extremely appealing.
How have We Love Pets made sure you’re the right people to carry the award-winning brand forward?
We researched several similar (but different) franchises, however we decided on We Love Pets because we felt a stronger connection to the company’s business ethic, Ryan (managing director), was very happy to communicate open and freely, and we never felt pressured into signing up.
Communication with one of the directors rather than a random employee has helped.
What did the word ‘franchise’ mean to you before you came across We Love Pets?
We have always known what a franchise was, but never really looked into many before we came across We Love Pets
There are many start-up businesses available (business in a box) but not so many that offer the level of support that we have at We Love Pets, unless of course one pays hundreds of thousands for a high-end business.
Did you at any time during the process worry that you can’t do this?
I think that commitment was the biggest hurdle, especially with us relocating to the Norwich region, and having to find our way around the city and local area, as well as having to set up a new home.
We spoke to several We Love Pets owner-operators and aside from getting really good feedback about We Love Pets from everyone, we think that the freedom that this business offers is the most appealing. It’s all about the lifestyle balance.
What have you done in your past that you think will help you in your new venture?
We’ve both run businesses before, I ran one alone for 19 years and then with Anita for 4 years. We’re both realists, we believe one gets out of a business what one puts in. You can’t push it with a stick, it needs to be driven.
We’re delighted that We Love Pets set you goals, but also allow you the freedom to choose the level of business we want to grow.
What do you love most about Norwich?
We like the more relaxed pace of life than that of the bigger cities.
We’re also excited to be working with sentient beings rather than innate materials within a retail and commercial environment.
What are you most looking forward to; running your own business?
There’s quite a list; but we have four grown-up children between us, all leading independent professional lives, so having time to spend with them without the constraints of employment. Time out for hobbies.
Do you have pets of your own?
Currently only Alfie Moon, a five-year-old Pom Pap cross who has been part of our family from age 9 months. We were his third owners! Alfie Moon is a proper character, has an amazing quiet aptitude, friendly, cuddly, playful, and a joy to be around.
We also used to own two Burman cats and two Kunekune pigs while living in New Zealand!
If you’re looking for a dog walker, pet sitter or boarder in Norwich covering, NR1, NR2, NR3, NR5, NR6, NR7 and NR8, visit Steve and Anita’s dedicated web page here.
