11 August 2017
Who's who at Bedshed - get to know Gavin Culmsee
As a leader in the franchising industry, there’s a lot that goes on behind the scenes. Bedshed’s General Manager, Gavin Culmsee, has been with the business for nine years, leading the network of 24 franchisees. Since joining the team, Gavin has overseen the successful expansion and growth of the network across the country.
Here he shares some valuable insight from his time at Bedshed.
Why did you decide to join the team at Bedshed?
My wife was pregnant with our second child, and we decided to move back home to Perth from Melbourne. I wanted to work for a national retail business, and the more I learnt about Bedshed and the role on offer, the more I wanted to join.
I could see the network had a history of successful franchisees and satisfied customers, but there was also room for growth and improvement; something I wanted to be part of.
What sets Bedshed apart from other franchise networks?
We work extremely hard to maintain a culture that’s inclusive of everyone in the team, and caters to each individual’s need. While Bedshed involves its franchisees in much of the business processes, many franchise networks don’t.
We encourage an open, two-way healthy relationship between Bedshed’s Central Office and our franchisees. An example of this is the operation of both the Franchise Advisory Council (FAC) and the Merchandise Advisory Council (MAC), which gives our franchisees a lot of decision-making power when it comes to product selection and growth strategy.
With more than 20 years’ industry experience, you’ve seen a lot of franchisees grow and prosper. What do you think it takes to be successful?
The number one attribute franchisees must have is a positive attitude. The great thing about franchising is that the rest – sales practice, marketing, revenue management, inventory control – can be taught.
Why should someone consider a career in franchising?
It’s a great way to future proof your career and be your own boss, yet still engage in something that offers both lifestyle and financial benefits, with many of our franchisees reporting net profit in excess of 10% of total turnover.
You really get the best of both worlds with the guidance and support of a trusted brand.
What do you enjoy most about working at Bedshed?
Seeing our franchisees grow and succeed is what has kept me with Bedshed for almost 10 years. I’m inspired by seeing people grow their franchise from humble beginnings into profitable businesses that provides them with financial flexibility and work-life balance.
There’s also a real sense of community within our network and our team are always willing to help each other out. As our network grows, we remain committed to the values that we all share – both personally and professionaly – which guide the way we work and the decisions we make each day to help achieve our success.
