A wine merchant in the Cotswolds has sold a part share in its business in a bid to become a franchise.
Broadway Wine Company, which operates a shop in the eponymous village, has agreed a deal with Dorset-based Taylor Made Franchising, which owns or partly owns seven other brands across a variety of sectors.
Founded in 2009 by James Kemp, whose family have lived in Broadway since 1870, the business supplies local hotels, pubs, restaurants, independent retail stores and franchise convenience stores across Gloucestershire.
Following the growth of its trade accounts in recent years, Broadway Wine Company - which also has an online business - added a warehouse in Winchcombe to its operations.
The business is now aiming to have franchisees operating across the UK, with new part owners Taylor Made having assisted in the franchising of brands with a combined annual turnover of £7m.
Broadway Wine Company’s shop on Kennel Lane in the village will not be part of the franchise deal and will continue to operate as normal.
Broadway Wine Company co-director Doug Brown, who has previously worked for wineries such as Rosemount Wines, Jackson Family Wines and Giesen Wines, said: “James and I have a huge amount of experience in the wine trade which we are looking forward to sharing with our franchisees. Yes, the market is competitive, but it isn’t saturated.”
According to figures from the Wine and Spirit Trade Association, the sector generates around £49bn in economic activity in the UK.
Mr Kemp said: “It will be a very proud day for us when we have Broadway Wine Company franchisees operating across the UK. We don’t need our franchisees to know about wine, we can and will teach them everything they need to know, but we do need them to be robust and resilient salespeople who are great with customers.
“Our franchisees will also be able to supply direct to the public; something we found has been very successful for us, particularly over the last two years.”
During the pandemic and resultant impact on the hospitality industry, Broadway Wine Company adapted its services to provide a local wine delivery service. It also extended its range to include beer, cider, ales and has developed its own gin.
Darren Taylor, founder and owner of Taylor Made Franchising, said he was "excited" to welcome Broadway Wine Company to the group.
Mr Taylor said: “My team and I are highly experienced at franchising. I started as a franchisee myself, so I know what it is like to be on both sides of the table. Together we will supply them with everything they need to franchise their business, show them what to do and most importantly, what not to do.”
Taylor Made Franchising's other brands include national contractors Stumpbusters and Thomas Cleaning.
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