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Franchising and calling a spade a spade

22nd Sep 2009

I’m reading Eagle Boys Pizza franchise founder Tom Potter’s book, The Eagle Boys Story, at the moment - it’s a great read!

Knowing Tom I can hear him speaking as I read and have a little chuckle.

He’s very frank and that’s one of the things that makes him so great.He tells it like it is which is why I’m so pleased he’ll be speaking at our Franchise Forum 2009.

It’s clear from the book his mother played a really big role in his life and in his success.

She always believed in him and it’s nice to see Tom pay tribute to her throughout the book.

Being a mother myself, I can really appreciate this.

Highlights of the franchise book

One of the best things about the book is the mini case studies.

There’s a lesson every few pages, and tips at the end of each section.

The book provides a real insight, covering everything from litigation to employee fraud – Tom really has experienced it all.

Tom, franchising and success

Tom has an uncanny way of just knowing what will work – like the drive thru in Emerald and the double decker pizza box – and an absolute faith in his gut instinct.

When he makes mistakes he’s not afraid to put these down to experience.

He really is a great success story, having left school at 15 and then going on to graduate from Harvard and giving the graduation address.He’s a real entrepreneurial spirit – like most of you in the franchise business.

Being only half way through, I’m not sure if the book covers why he’s not planning to franchise his new business concept (www.crustydevil.com.au), but I’m interested to know.

If you’re curious like me, why this franchise icon is bowing out of franchising, you’ll also want to be at the Franchise Forum 2009, where Tom will reveal his biggest franchising mistakes, AND why he’s planning not to franchise his new business.

To find out more or register for the Franchise Forum 2009: How the best thrive in any environment click here.

One last comment about Tom, is I’m very impressed by him – he gets his hands dirty and would step off the plane in his Eagle Boys uniform ready to work in-store with a franchisee on a Friday night, now that’s dedication.

And he loves his Mum! (Boys are you reading?)

(Also, just in case you’re wondering - I’m not receiving any commission for book sales Tom makes after you read this post – I just think it’s a great read).

You can order your own copy of Tom’s book, The Eagle Boys Story, through www.tompotterspeaker.com for $34.95. (We’re also giving away  copies to the first 20 people who attend the Franchise Forum 2009).

What do you think of Tom’s book or his story?

Read more: Lorelle Frazer

Reader Comments

Jason

I absolutely agree with your review and that you could hear Tom when reading his book. Yep I had a laugh and yet was surprised that his road to success was not all paved with gold.. though sometimes those experiences are the most important ones..

I am an ex Eagle Boys franchisee and Tom WAS the reason my wife and I joined the system. A man with integrity and incredible passion for an Aussie Brand.. I only wish that I had met him in the early days of his Eagle Boys life - things sounded more thrilling (according to the book) and fly-by-the-seat of your pants...

Tom is a no nonsense straight forward person but I'll bet he could still play a mean hand in Texas Poker if he had too..

His book is a great read, a must read for people new to franchising, with 'real' stories that are relevant to other industries.

All the best for your Franchise Forum 2009