Chris Edwards was a Western Australian mechanic back in the late 1980s, when Snap-on opened its franchise model in Australia. He was one of the first to embrace Snap-on tools in his own garage.
“I was a mechanic who was using the product. I was in the trade, and genuinely excited by Snap-on tools. I’d always been interested in sales and in selling a quality product. It was something I believed in, and I think that made taking the step into working for myself quite logical, really,” explained Chris.
Knowing the outstanding quality of the tools, Chris was motivated by the support provided by the franchise. The one-on-one help and programmes offered have been invaluable. Training has kept him ahead of the latest developments, giving customers the most up-to-date information possible.
“For me personally, I’ve seen a lot of change in 30 years. Automation has changed a lot of product lines over time and there’s a much higher demand for electronic and diagnostic tools now than there has been in the past.”
Although technology has had a major impact on the industry, his day-to-day routine of visiting mechanics at their place of work is still a proven method of doing business. Chris has been visiting many of the same businesses for three decades, and those customers are still buying tools from him.
Through Covid-19 restrictions, Chris’s business remained open, proving not only essential to his customers, but also financially resilient for him as a franchisee. “Even in this environment, there’s no doubt that providing the right tools for a mechanic to do their job is essential,” reflected Chris.
His journey as a Snap-on franchisee has successfully seen him become a member of the prized Snap-on Million Dollar Club. This is a select group of franchisees bringing in a turnover of more than $1m per annum.
Snap-on is a leading manufacturer of premium tool and equipment solutions. It has a unique franchise model that transports its tool range direct from workshop to workshop via dedicated franchisees, just like Chris Edwards.
It’s never too late to give it a go, learn how to be part of one of the longest-running, successful franchises in the world. Visit snaponfranchise.com.au
