 |
 |
 | ||||||||||
|
Thorntons
In 1927, the company took on a small factory in Sheffield and opened 3 further shops outside Sheffield in 1928. By 1935 there were 15 shops, about 40 shop assistants and as many other employees, In 1937 a new factory was built and its capacity was doubled in size to accommodate the increase in business. By 1939 there were 35 shops in 18 towns in the Midlands and North of England. In the 1950's and 1960's the third generation of Thorntons joined the firm and the Thorntons family commitment was secured, In 1988 the company was floated on the stock market. Although the company is now Plc, members of the family are still involved in the business. In conclusion when Joseph William Thornton opened the first ever Thorntons shop in Norfolk Street, Sheffield, his aim was simply to create the finest sweet shop in town. Over 90 years later, Thorntons Plc is a £160 million turnover company with over 400 own shops and over 160 Franchises selling the finest confectionery in town and cities throughout the United Kingdom. New business development Whilst our existing businesses have demonstrated exciting growth potential, we continue to look for further growth that can capitalise on the strength of the Thorntons brand. These include: Gift Delivery Service The Thorntons Gift Delivery Service was launched in 1997. We are confident that this will grow substantially and have extended our offering to the Internet and through "Open" on digital T.V. Orders can be placed via the Internet, by post, over the telephone or via any Thornton's shop. Cafe Thorntons As part of the new business trials Thorntons rolled out the Cafe Thorntons concept. This offer combines a continental cafe with our full confectionery offer. There are now around 24 operating throughout the U.K. We are now pulling together our learning on the best locations, customer offer and operational configuration. The Cafe concept will be an ongoing development for Thorntons and the company wants to open it's 50th in 2004. Travel Locations We have successful units operating at airports and Railway stations around the U.K. As well as in Travel Locations such as Moto Service Stations. Franchise  With over 180 outlets at Present Thorntons identifies franchise as the way forward. For the next two years Thorntons is looking to open another 20 each year. Thorntons Plc operates both company and franchise shops within the United Kingdom. In terms of franchising Thorntons see the opportunity to develop in the smaller catchments areas with, partners who are already established in the area. Or who want to set themselves up as a retailer. The business should be compatible with the brand values, image and product range of Thorntons.A high level of product knowledge and customer service must be maintained in accordance with Thornton's policies and this will be assessed on a regular basis. Thorntons would like to develop in areas where it is not viable to open a full Thorntons outlet. We are looking for people who already operate a retail outlet or who are in the process of setting themselves up as a retailer. The business should be compatible with the Thorntons brand, values and image. All new Thorntons franchises are part of a bigger offer, for example, a card and gift shop. The total, air conditioned, sales area needs to be a minimum of 800 sq ft. However, we prefer to develop in sites of 1,000 - 1,200 sq ft with Thorntons requiring around 300 sq ft. This equates to a minimum of six (preferably eight) selling bays and three service bays, a servery for the sale of loose chocolates and, depending on the layout of the store, a counter area, as well as a window display. Also required will be:
Training Thortons believes in support in the field and from Head Office for our partners to maximise results for both parties. We assist where possible regarding:
Franchise business managers We currently operate around 200 franchises and support these through visits by four regional Franchise Business Managers. Every store has its own Franchise Business Manager (FBM). The FBM is there primarily to support you and the store team, in all aspects of the business relating to Thorntons. The FBM's main objectives are:
top What franchisees say about us "Our Thorntons Franchise has surpassed all expectations, not only are we exceeding our sales/financial targets but we are also getting positive feedback from our customers who are delighted to have their own Thorntons outlet in Glossop." Paul and Beverly Maycock, Occasions with Thorntons - Glossop, Derbyshire "I would have no hesitation in recommending any person to take out a Thorntons franchise and would be only too willing to assist them in their initial research." Barry Rees, Penmark Cards Ltd - Swadlincote "The support from Thorntons at start up was phenomenal. The Franchise Business Manager is more than willing to give help and advice. They are very approachable and sort out all of our day to day problems." Tim Walker, Thorntons at Walkers Books and cards - Market Harborough "The support we have received has been tremendous. From the very early stages, we have been able to benefit from the considerable expertise available. Help with design and shop fitting was superb, as was the "hand-holding" experience with staff training." Stephen Church, Church's China with Thorntons - Kettering "The opening of my franchise was received with great enthusiasm and the continued support from Thorntons and customers alike has been very gratifying. My staff have thoroughly enjoyed the experience. Thorntons provide constantly changing point-of-sale material giving the shop a professional appearance, a continued flow of information on products, sales, promotional material, and a weekly newsletter. National advertising gives independent traders the prominence that they would otherwise not be able to achieve and although independent we are associated with a High Street brand name." Gordon Mackenzie, Thorntons from the Heart – Gainsborough top  Key Info | | ||||||||||
 |
|
 |
