We are the UK’s leading
greeting card franchise
Your questions answered
Are you members of the British Franchise Association?
Yes. We have been a full member of the British Franchise Association since 1995 and are also full members of the Irish Franchise Association.
Where is Card Connection Based?
We are located in Farnham, Surrey, United Kingdom.
How many Franchisees do you have?
We currently have over 70 franchisees, spread throughout the UK and Ireland (this number has reduced over the past few years due to franchisees buying larger territories).
Is this method of distribution new?
No. Card Connection and a few competitors have been established for over 18 years. There is, therefore, nothing new about supplying greeting cards on consignment. Card Connection is, however, by far the largest and most successful publisher in this sector of the market and has shown consistent growth throughout this time.
Are your profit figures realistic?
Yes. All figures we quote are based on actual performance. They are not based on theoretical levels or on what our best franchisees have achieved. Having said this, no franchisor can guarantee an individual franchisee’s success.
How much capital do I need?
We now only have established territories for sale, for which you will need a minimum of £50,000 depending, of course, on the size of the outgoing franchisee’s business. You will also need working capital to ensure continued growth of your business. We would recommend a figure of 20% of turnover. We are well known to all major banks’ franchise departments and we will happily introduce you to one or more of the banks for assistance with your financial requirements.
What is the management service fee?
We do not charge our franchisees a royalty on sales, we instead charge a low, flat monthly rate management fee. This goes toward the extensive fixed costs Card Connection incurs on behalf of its franchisees. These costs include franchise management, National Account support, marketing and product development.
Is this a full time franchise?
Yes. Our product range and customer base has grown to such an extent that it is impossible to provide the required levels of service without being fully devoted to the business.
Can I talk to your Franchisees?
Yes. But only after we have conducted a couple of informal interviews with you. You will then be allowed to freely choose whom you speak to. You may also spend time with one or more of our franchisees providing we are happy with your application.
Will I need a computer?
Yes. We are committed to using IT as fully as possible. Our franchisees order their product through our web based system and all franchisees use Hand Held Terminals to conduct their business. Much of our communication is also conducted using electronic media.
Do I need to be a sales person?
The natural ability to sell is essential but a sales background is not a requirement. Our franchisees come from all sorts of backgrounds. Our franchisees do, however, share the ability to communicate well, enjoy meeting people and have lots of energy and enthusiasm.
Are your cards suitable for all types of retail outlets?
Our cards sell well in most types of outlet from newsagents to convenience stores and forecourt retailers. We are currently supplying more than 15,000 outlets in the UK and Ireland and have won awards for the service levels provided by our franchisees.
What is the range size?
The Card Connection range is tailored for broad appeal and consists of over 1,200 cards. Our range includes Birthday, Blank, Get Well, Anniversary, Good Luck, New Baby, Wedding, Congratulations and Sympathy as well as Valentine’s, Mother’s Day, Easter, Father’s Day and Christmas cards. In addition we have a number of “mini” ranges to ensure there is something for everyone.
How do you display your products?
Increasingly our cards are displayed on retailers’ own fixtures, however, we do supply card racks, spinners, promotional display units and various other freestanding display options.
Why are your cards wrapped?
Cards can easily become dirty or damaged when on display in retail outlets, therefore, we regard it as vital to wrap all cards.
Are your card designs original?
Yes. Card Connection has built its market position on the strength of its product range. We have an in-house creative team who have a reputation for originality and creativity with new designs.
Where will I keep my stock?
Most of our franchisees use garages fitted with racking for storage, however, increasingly franchisees with larger territories are making use of stand-alone storage facilities.
Do I need a van?
Yes. With the size of our product range and extensive customer base, it is imperative that a van be used to cope with demand.