My Trophy experience…

I started my Trophy franchise in 2010 and over the years I have been able to grow a very successful business with around 500 customers. Owning a Trophy franchise is very enjoyable and rewarding - twelve years in and I'm still enjoying each day!

What I was looking for…

When I turned 30 I decided I needed a lifestyle change so I considered becoming self-employed and start my own business. I came across Trophy many times on searches for businesses for sale and arranged a meeting. With no knowledge of pet food ingredients I was shocked at how some pet food manufacturers hid behind wording and how low quality some brands were, although these were and are still leading brands in the shops today.

What I found…

I found the ethical and open recipes of Trophy very appealing and really felt this would be a good opportunity to run a business from home and have the lifestyle change I was looking for. Trophy offered me a business to call my own with support and a product that was only available through myself in my franchise area. The downside to this meant I started with no customers with low awareness of the product locally, so it took me many years to build my reputation and the brand awareness. This wasn’t an easy business to start twelve years ago due to the lack of the awareness of social media, internet and awareness around pet food ingredients etc.

How I did it…

By putting the hours in with dog walks, village fetes, summer fayres and supporting local charity events I was able to meet people who wanted the best for their pets. Trophy gave me the training and best practice to gain new customers, so I was able to find what worked for me, as I’m not a pushy sales person. I have to confess I don’t attend as many events or shows these days as my business grows through recommendations, although I still like to support charities and events as Trophy has become part of the community.

The reward…

I have been able to rescue four older dogs and other pets over the last twelve years which was another reason Trophy suited my work ethics as I grew up on a smallholding and have a love for animals. When I first started with Trophy the feeling of walking my spaniel ‘Jake’ each morning was the lifestyle I was looking for rather than being stuck in an office. For me, Trophy is about lifestyle rather than wealth - yes you can make a good turnover and profit, but you can also grow a business to the size that suits your goals without having unachievable targets to meet.

My Trophy life today…

I have an amazing loyal customer base that like to interact with Trophy’s and my social media pages. My customers enjoy being part of the Trophy family which has meant I have been very fortunate to win the Trophy Customer Service Award for several years and have some great reviews on Trust Pilot. I’ve also be awarded the Franchisee of the Year on a number of occasions - which all came from hard work and determination to grow my business. With a great product covering every price bracket (and pocket) you are able to grow a business without being a pushy sales person and give great customer service with good advice to help your customers have happy healthy pets and a healthy business. Trophy is a quality over quantity which leads to a healthy and enjoyable lifestyle!