To celebrate International Women’s Day, we’ve caught up with one of our hugely inspiring franchisees, Jolanta Francis, to find out how she finds being a female specialist in a male-dominated industry.
What are the positives/negatives of being a woman in a male-dominated industry?
Working in a male-dominated industry has definitely come with its challenges, but I see it as an opportunity rather than a barrier. I’ve had to prove myself at times, but I’ve found that knowledge, skill, and a strong work ethic earn respect regardless of gender. Over time, I’ve built great relationships with customers who appreciate the expertise I bring to the table. I also hope that by being in this field, I can inspire more women to pursue careers in the industry.
One of the biggest positives of being a woman in a male-dominated industry is the opportunity to break stereotypes and bring a fresh perspective. I’ve found that customers often appreciate my attention to detail and communication skills, and it’s rewarding to challenge the norm.
On the other hand, one of the challenges can be proving yourself in an environment where there are fewer women. Sometimes, there’s an initial assumption that I may not have as much technical knowledge or experience, but I see that as motivation to demonstrate my skills and expertise. Fortunately, once people see my work ethic and dedication, those barriers tend to disappear.
What did you do previously to joining ChipsAway? Have you been self-employed before?
I have never been self-employed. Before entering the automotive industry, I worked in retail, which gave me valuable experience in customer service, problem-solving, and business operations. While I enjoyed that environment, I’ve always had a passion for cars and a desire to work in a more hands-on, technical field.
Running my own business in the car repair industry was a natural next step for me. I wanted the freedom to build something of my own, provide excellent service, and create an inclusive environment where both men and women can feel comfortable.
It’s been a challenging but incredibly rewarding journey, and I love the sense of accomplishment that comes with every job that I do.
What appealed to you most about ChipsAway when you first started considering franchising as a route to self-employment?
When I first started considering franchising as a route to self-employment, ChipsAway stood out to me for several reasons. First and foremost, I was drawn to the brand’s strong reputation and proven business model, which gave me confidence that I’d be supported as I built my own business.
The training and support offered by ChipsAway were also a big factor. Transitioning from a different industry into car repair was a big step, but knowing that I would receive high-quality training and ongoing guidance made the decision much easier.
Finally, I loved the idea of having the independence of running my own business while still benefiting from the backing of an established name in the industry. It felt like the perfect balance of structure and freedom, allowing me to bring my own approach to customer service and quality workmanship.
Have you faced any challenges since joining?
Like any new business venture, joining ChipsAway has come with its challenges. One of the biggest was transitioning from a completely different industry and building my confidence in a more technical, hands-on role. While the training provided a solid foundation, there was still a learning curve in applying those skills in real-world situations.
Another challenge has been establishing myself in a traditionally male-dominated industry. At times, I’ve had to prove my expertise to gain trust and credibility, but I’ve found that delivering high-quality work and great customer service quickly overcomes any doubts.
That being said, every challenge has been an opportunity to grow, and I’ve learned so much along the way. The support from ChipsAway, as well as my own determination, has helped me navigate these obstacles and build a business I’m really proud of.
How did you find the training?
The training with ChipsAway was excellent. Coming from a different industry, I knew I had a lot to learn, but the training program was very thorough and gave me the skills and confidence I needed to get started. It covered everything from repair techniques to customer service, which was really valuable in helping me transition into the automotive sector.
What I appreciated most was the hands-on approach—it wasn’t just theory, but real practical experience that prepared me for working on customer vehicles. The trainers were incredibly knowledgeable and supportive, making sure I felt comfortable and capable before going out on my own.
Even after the initial training, the ongoing support has been fantastic. Whether it’s technical advice or business guidance, I know there’s always help available if I need it, which has made a huge difference in growing my business.
How did you discover ChipsAway initially?
I first discovered ChipsAway while researching franchise opportunities in the automotive industry. I knew I wanted to run my own business, but I also wanted the support of an established brand to help me get started.
As I looked into ChipsAway, I was really impressed by the success stories and the level of training and support they offered. I decided to attend an open day to learn more, and that experience confirmed that it was the right choice for me. Meeting the team, seeing the setup firsthand, and understanding how the business model worked gave me the confidence to take the leap. It felt like a great fit, and I haven’t looked back!
Describe your average day?
No two days are exactly the same, which is one of the things I love about running my own business! However, a typical day usually starts with planning my schedule and making sure I have everything I need for the jobs ahead.
Most of my day is spent working on customer vehicles, carrying out repairs and ensuring the highest quality finish. I take pride in delivering great results and making sure customers are happy with the work. In between jobs, I also handle customer enquiries, provide quotes, and manage bookings.
Running my own business also means taking care of the admin side—ordering supplies, keeping on top of paperwork, and promoting my services to attract new customers. It’s busy, but I enjoy the balance of hands-on work and growing my business. Seeing the results of my hard work and receiving positive feedback from customers makes it all worthwhile
What support there is from Head Office in terms of Marketing, Franchise Support, & Technical?
One of the biggest advantages of being part of ChipsAway is the fantastic support from Head Office. From the very beginning, they’ve provided comprehensive training and guidance to help me get my business up and running.
The national marketing campaigns are a huge benefit, as they help drive brand awareness and generate leads, making it easier for me to attract new customers. In addition, the franchise support team is always available to offer advice on everything from business growth to day-to-day challenges.
On the technical side, there’s ongoing support to help with any complex repairs or troubleshooting, which is really reassuring. Whether it’s through refresher training, networking with other franchisees, or simply picking up the phone for advice, I always feel like I have a strong support system behind me. That’s been invaluable in helping me grow my business with confidence.
What is the best thing about being a ChipsAway franchisee?
The best thing about being a ChipsAway franchisee is the perfect balance of independence and support. I have the freedom to run my own business, set my own schedule, and build something for myself, but I also have the backing of a well-established brand and a strong support network.
The training and ongoing guidance have been invaluable, and the national marketing helps bring in customers, which takes a lot of pressure off when growing the business. I also love the variety in my work—every day is different, and there’s a real sense of satisfaction in transforming a vehicle and seeing the customer delighted with the result.
Most of all, it’s rewarding to know that I’m in control of my own success. The harder I work, the more I see my business grow, and that’s an amazing feeling.
How is your life different now compared to before being self-employed with ChipsAway?
My life has changed significantly since becoming self-employed with ChipsAway, and in so many positive ways. One of the biggest differences is the sense of freedom and control I have over my own career. I get to set my own schedule, decide how I run my business, and directly reap the rewards of my hard work.
Compared to my previous job in retail, where my time and earnings were fixed, I now have much more flexibility and the potential to grow my income based on my own efforts. It’s incredibly rewarding to build something for myself and see my business develop over time.
Of course, being self-employed comes with challenges—there’s more responsibility, and I have to manage everything from customer service to admin—but the sense of achievement makes it all worthwhile. I feel more motivated and excited about the future, knowing I’m in charge of my own success.
What’s the most valuable piece of advice you could give someone (and specifically women) looking to buy their first franchise?
My biggest piece of advice for anyone looking to buy their first franchise – especially women entering a male-dominated industry – is to believe in yourself and your abilities. It’s natural to feel some hesitation when stepping into something new, but confidence, hard work, and a willingness to learn will take you far.
Do your research and make sure the franchise aligns with your goals, values, and lifestyle. Take advantage of discovery days, speak to existing franchisees, and ask as many questions as possible. Having the right support system in place – both from the franchisor and your own network – can make a huge difference in your success.
For women specifically, don’t be intimidated by industries that may not have as many female business owners yet. Your skills, determination, and approach bring value, and the industry is evolving. If you’re passionate and committed, there’s no reason you can’t thrive. Just go for it and trust that you have what it takes to succeed!
What local marketing works well for you?
Local marketing plays a huge role in growing my business, and I’ve found that a mix of different approaches works best. Word-of-mouth has been incredibly powerful – delivering high-quality work and excellent customer service leads to recommendations and repeat business.
Social media has also been a great tool for reaching local customers. Posting before-and-after photos of repairs, sharing customer testimonials, and engaging with my local community online helps build trust and attract new clients.
In addition, I’ve found that having strong local visibility is key. Branded signage on my vehicle, flyers in key locations, and attending local events or business networking groups have all helped to increase awareness. Being proactive, consistent, and making sure people know about my services has made a big difference in generating leads
Do you aim to hit certain targets daily, weekly, monthly in terms of turnover?
Yes, I set myself targets to keep my business on track and ensure steady growth. I have both short-term and long-term goals, including daily, weekly, and monthly turnover targets. These help me stay motivated and focused, while also allowing me to measure my progress and make any necessary adjustments.
Having clear targets also helps with managing workload and planning ahead. Some weeks might be busier than others, so setting realistic goals ensures I maintain a good balance and stay on top of customer demand.
At the same time, I remain flexible – unexpected jobs or opportunities can come up, and I adapt as needed. My main focus is consistently delivering high-quality work and great customer service, knowing that strong performance naturally leads to business growth.
What advice would you give someone who wants to grow their business?
My biggest advice for anyone looking to grow their business is to stay consistent, be proactive, and always focus on quality. Word-of-mouth and customer satisfaction are key drivers of growth, so delivering excellent service and maintaining a great reputation should always be a priority.
Marketing is also essential—don’t be afraid to put yourself out there. Use social media to showcase your work, engage with your local community, and take advantage of any marketing support available. Networking, both online and in person, can also help build valuable connections that lead to new opportunities.
It’s also important to set clear goals and track progress. Growth doesn’t happen overnight, but by staying committed, adapting to challenges, and continuously improving, you can steadily build a strong and successful business. Finally, never stop learning—whether it’s refining your skills, seeking advice, or staying updated on industry trends, ongoing development is key to long-term success.
In your opinion, what makes a successful franchisee?
In my opinion, a successful franchisee is someone who is driven, adaptable, and willing to put in the hard work to grow their business. While a franchise provides a proven business model and support, it’s still up to the individual to make the most of the opportunity.
Commitment to excellent customer service is key – building a strong reputation and ensuring customers are happy will lead to repeat business and referrals. Being proactive with marketing, managing time effectively, and staying organized also play a big role in long-term success.
For me, resilience has been essential. Challenges will come up, but having a positive mindset and problem-solving approach makes all the difference. Those who are open to learning, take advantage of the support available, and stay motivated will have the best chance of success in their franchise journey.
