The Best Thing I’ve Done in my Life! HAVING run his family-in-law’s business for 18 years, Steve Roberts brought a wealth of experience with him as he analysed his options of business ownership. Seeking an established business to take over, when he discovered the SITB vending franchise covering Portsmouth and Brighton available for re-sale his interest was immediately piqued. “If I hadn’t secured the purchase I would have still looked at the SITB franchise because of the association with Cadbury,” he reflects. “The previous owner had expanded the franchise which provided me with the opportunity to take over a business that was doing very well and employing two people.” Steve acquired the business in January 2003, taking over its running in March. “The SITB training is superb,” he emphasises. “When you run a business you don’t necessarily know how to do every job, but the SITB training covers everything required to operate, from how the machines work and how to source suppliers to canvassing and building turnover. From the start I have enjoyed constant support - the head office staff talk to me three or four times a week keeping me up-to-date on special offers and providing assistance in installing new machines.” Steve has taken on his 23 year old son Matthew to assist him in the business, and his next aim is to bring in another employee to provide them with the opportunity to take a holiday together. “We achieved a £140,000 turnover in 2003/4, which should grow to £160,000 in 2004/5,” he reports. “We will continue to grow the business through increased canvassing. Buying this business is probably the best thing I’ve done in my life - it’s given me complete freedom. The only people that can pressure us are our customers when they run out of our products and we are very quick to respond. That’s the secret to running a successful business.” | 
