There’s a lot to look forward to when starting a business; you’re building something for your future that’s ALL YOURS… and now you are your own boss in control of your own success… but all good things must come to an end eventually, right? Opening a business is exciting, fun and rewarding… and it goes without saying that most people don’t go into it thinking about an exit strategy. Why would they? Window Genie is never happy to see an owner go, but it happens!
Fortunately for our franchise owners, the sky is the limit. Many of them have been with us for over 10 years and show no signs of slowing down. Down the road when an owner is ready to retire or move on for personal reasons, they’ll find themselves with a lot of questions. It’s difficult to just close the doors and walk away… after all they did spend a number of years building something they’re very proud of!
- Do I sell the business?
- Who would I sell it to?
- Is the brand I built being put in the right hands?
- Will my loyal customers be taken care of?
- What about my current staff?
We’re here to share an example of one Window Genie franchise partner’s recent retirement, and hopefully paint a picture that answers these common questions.
Early in spring of 2014, Gary Eenigenburg purchased the Window Genie of Tinley Park (SW Chicago) franchise from Bill Grogan. Bill’s location in Tinley Park has been in operation for 11 years. Gary himself has owned & operated his own Window Genie franchise just across the border to Indiana in St. John for over 6 years. Gary said, “Bill knew he was ready to sell his business and move on to retirement but was very careful about putting it in the right hands. I’m glad he trusted me to continue serving the clients he worked so hard to satisfy over the years.”
Gary plans to promote one of the lead technicians at the Tinley Park location to be in a managerial position and help run that office. “I’m happy to say I’m going to retain his current employees, some who have been with Window Genie for over 5 years. I want to continue to deliver on the expectations and needs of the customers that have been so loyal to Bill over the years. The timing couldn’t be better; we’re going to take advantage of the busy spring cleaning season to make ourselves known in the community and let everyone know that just because their Window Genie is ‘under new management’ it doesn’t mean quality will be sacrificed.”
Bill is happy with his decision to “keep it in the Window Genie family” and can’t wait to see what Gary and his team are made of this spring cleaning season.
Gary said, “I feel like a Window Genie veteran at this point, I have a good number of years under my belt. I’ve grown and improved alongside the system itself, I know the corporate team’s efforts to continue growing and improving definitely helps us guys who’ve been with the company a long time. I’m ready to put my experience to the test; Bill treated his customers well and gained their loyalty so I know there is a lot to live up to… but we’re excited to prove ourselves!”
Visit Gary’s new profile page and facebook page for more information on Window Genie of Tinley Park!
