Briefly introduce your company delving on the inception, operation of business and foray into franchising.
It was my father, G.P.Bharwani's vision to reduce unemployment and thus, in those initial years, we started by training people in making do-it-yourself radio kits. In the ‘90s everyone was moving into software and I realised that there would be a shortage of hardware professionals.
As training was a passion, I decided to carry my father’s legacy forward by setting up our first hardware and networking center in Sewri, Mumbai (we have 125 centers today). We chose to take the franchisee route as Jetking had a good brand value derived from its former radio-transistor business. Also, due to limited capital we thought franchising would bring in capital for expansion and an entrepreneurial spirit to the whole business model.
- Suresh G. Bharwani
What is the USP of your concept? How is your concept marketable?
We are pioneers in the Hardware and Networking training industry and we have a unique training methodology called Smartlab Plus. This method enhances the training quality of Jetking students and makes them industry employable. Smartlab Plus includes components like English speaking, personality development, yoga, 60% practicals which helps the students both professionally and personally.
As for the franchisees, they get the Value of the Brand created over 60 years and a chance to give back to the community by providing education. Besides, franchisees can achieve profitability 30-40% of Net Revenue and may also reach up to 50%.
How many corporate outlets and franchised outlets do you have at present?
At present we have 125 franchise centers and 6 corporate centers.
What is your international presence?
We don’t have any franchise center abroad yet but we do plan to start in the near future.
How many outlets do you plan to open in the coming years?
Jetking is looking to start more than 100 centers by 2011-12; mainly in east and south India
What is the reach of your franchise centers - Nationwide, particular regions, particular cities?
Nationwide we have greater presence in northern and western India. We also have centers in south India – in Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh, along with a few in the east.
What kind of training are the franchisees provided?
Franchisees are rigorously trained on all aspects of the business such as student satisfaction, training,sales, planning, marketing, administration, human resources, and so on. They are trained in all of the above aspects on the job. The Franchise staff is trained for 11 days where they undergo an induction training program. Besides, we have regular training sessions: every quarter for all staff members, and every 6 months for all Franchise Business Partners.
What kind of marketing support do you provide?
We help our Business Partners with sales, marketing and advertising by giving sales targets, marketing plan, media buying & budgeting, making presentations, local area marketing and so on. Visit our Support section for detailed information on the support provided.
What is the duration of the agreement?
The agreement is valid for 3 years. Subsequent renewals, post the initial 3-year period, last 2 years.
How much monetary investment does a franchise outlet require?
A Jetking franchise outlet cost will vary from city to city. Also, the investment varies from 35 to 45 lacs depending upon the city.
When was Jetking, the company, established?
Back in 1947
When did you foray into franchising?
In 1990
What skills/experience does a franchisee need?
A franchise needs to have minimum 3 years of work experience preferably in the IT field.
And the willingness to personally devote full time and best efforts to the day-to-day operations of the franchise center.
How long would it take to start operations from the time of signing the Franchisee Agreement?
After signing the Franchisee Agreement, Jetking has countdown during which it ensures that the center will start within 90 days of signing the agreement.
Who will build my centre? Can I use my existing setup?
Jetking will help you build your center. You can use your existing setup, provided it is as per Jetking’s specifications.
How much money can I make?
Profitability varies depending upon a number of factors, such as sales, location, occupancy and operating costs and the ability of the franchisee to manage and control the business. Questions related to revenue and profitability are discussed during the initial meeting process.
Can I own more than one franchisee?
Absolutely! Depending upon your performance you can open another Jetking franchise in any location (as per availability).
