James Lunnay’s Success Story in the Pool Industry (Franchise Interview with Jim’s Pool Care, South Australia)

Eden Exchange recently spoke to James Lunnay, Jim’s Pool Care Franchisor in South Australia. James discussed with us his franchising journey and provided some unique insights on the Jim’s Pool Care Business.

Eden Exchange
Thanks for speaking with us James. Can you tell us about your background and career? Were franchise opportunities something that always interested you and why did you pick Jim’s Pool Care in particular?

James Lunnay
I have been involved in the pool industry since 1989. Before moving into business for myself as a franchisee with Jim’s Pool Care, I actually worked in commercial pools across a wide range of areas. From pool lifeguarding, pool management, learn to swim management and servicing & repairs, I’ve always been involved with the industry. I picked Jim’s as it was a well known, trusted brand name that a lot of people trusted. I saw that they also offered great backup and support for franchisees.

“I have the flexibility and freedom to do what I want and when I want”

Eden Exchange
When someone is a first-time franchisee, what sort of qualities in a franchise should they be looking for? What advice would you have to someone working for themselves for the first time? How do you grow your customer base?

James Lunnay
Ideally you want a person who has some common sense, likes to problem solve and is willing to get out and have a go. When starting work for themselves, its very important not to be afraid to ask for help. There are many fantastic franchisees willing to offer help and advice. Don’t be afraid of someone saying no, just keep at it and be honest and open. Growing your customer base is a matter of getting out there and promoting yourself and your business. Don’t be afraid to ask for referrals.

Eden Exchange
You currently have franchise territories available across South Australia. Which areas do you specialise in? What are some of the factors that make this region unique?

James Lunnay
Across some of these territories the opportunities are endless. We have areas crying out for good dedicated service technicians. We always first look to build a great customer base of regular work. We then encourage all our guys to broaden their knowledge and expertise in areas such as salt-water conversions, solar heating and blankets. Automation of pool equipment is also a growing area. Many clients want to be able to switch their equipment on and off just by picking up their phones.

Eden Exchange
How supportive were Jim’s Pool Care when you first started your franchise?

James Lunnay
They were always there at the end of the phone if I ever needed help. They gave me direction and advice when I needed it. They were also there to help with the back end of my business as I had very little knowledge about this when I first started out.

Eden Exchange
What’s your take take on where your industry is heading? What are some trends you believe operators in the pool care and maintenance sector need to be aware of?

James Lunnay
The industry is getting a lot more professional in its approach. The level of training and qualifications required is starting to increase. We are now just starting to recognise our industry as an official trade. We now have Cert III and Cert IV training Certificates. As an industry, we need to be much more knowledgeable on the safety aspects for pool fencing and pool automation.

“We have areas which are crying out for good dedicated service technicians.”

Eden Exchange
Tell us about any hurdles you may have overcome along the way? What have been some of your prouder moments as you’ve grown your business?

James Lunnay
Starting out as the first Jim’s Pool Care Franchisee here in SA was initially challenging but creating business and networking opportunities for all new franchisees with suppliers has been great.

My proudest moments include completing my first ever job in my business, as well as the first time I received a  ‘Thankyou’ from an appreciative client. I was also proud to recently receive a National Silver Award for 2017 as SPASA Pool and Spa Service Technician of the year as well as a Gold Award for 2017 SA as SPASA Pool and Spa Service Technician of the year.

“Growing your customer base is a matter of getting out there and promote yourself and your business. Don’t be afraid to ask for referrals.”

Eden Exchange
What’s the best part about your profession? What drives you to do what you do?

James Lunnay
I get to meet lots of new people and help to solve the problems and issues that they are having with their pools. I have the flexibility and freedom to do what I want and when I want.
I enjoy learning about new products, items, programs and how they can be implemented into my business.

Eden Exchange
Thank you for your time.

Other Jim’s Pool Care Franchisee Stories:

Jim’s Pool Care:

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Jim’s Pool Care is ready to grow and have a fantastic opportunity for servicing all over Australia – they are looking for a Franchisee who is ready for a change in their life!The Jim’s brand is recognised by 94% of Australian adults & coupled with the accrued business acumen and proven systems, your business will have an enormous head start over your competitors.

Jim’s Pool Care provides you with the opportunity to work outside, the convenience to work your own hours cleaning & servicing pools. You can be your own boss and build & manage your own business without limit.

Jim’s Pool Care will be there to help you reach your goals, with full training and ongoing support. So if you are ready to grow a successful business then they want to hear from you today.