It’s all looking rosy for Razzamataz which continue to launch the careers of new franchisees, after celebrating another year in the Elite Franchise Top 100 list.
It’s always a proud moment when a company adds to its tally of franchisees. But it’s especially satisfying when the new recruits are already known within the company. This is what happened at Razzamataz Theatre Schools which recently welcomed five new franchisees through its doors. Among those joining the network as principals are former staff members Esme Tutill and James Pennell, who are taking over at Razzamataz Newcastle.
Hollie Pickup, a former student and teacher, is taking control at Razzamataz York, while Felicity Clifton will be joining her sister Jessica who owns Razzamataz Brentwood and Hornchurch. The siblings have big ambitions to expand their business further into Essex. Meanwhile, mum of two Rebecca Jagger of Plymouth, has also signed up and this latest crop of five brings the total number of people to become new franchisees with Razzamataz during 2020 to 11.
Established in 2000, Razzamataz Theatre Schools offers top class tuition and training in dance, drama and singing, and the brand enjoyed a significant boost 13 years ago when its founder Denise Hutton-Gosney appeared on the BBC’s flagship programme Dragons’ Den. Denise successfully secured new investment from Duncan Bannatyne as she sought to expand her business.
Denise, who is still managing director of the franchise, said: “It is wonderful to be welcoming our latest recruits, especially as we near the end of this very difficult year. As a network, we have all stuck together and have not only survived, but have actually grown in numbers, both in terms of students and new franchisees. We also have lots of exciting new initiatives planned for 2021 so we are definitely ending this year on a positive note.”
With the Covid pandemic affecting almost every business this year, Razzamataz has had to quickly adapt, as they continued to provide performing arts sessions for students, as well as the training up of new franchisees. The company went online and Principal of Razzamataz Plymouth, Rebecca Jagger, said: “Just wanted to say how fantastic the training has been. It is so thorough and, although overwhelming at times, Charlotte (Young) and the team have made it relaxed and fun.
“I have a lot to digest but I am feeling on a high. I can’t wait to start this new journey with Razzamataz. Thank you for giving me this opportunity and allowing me to join the Razz Family.” And the national network had more good news to celebrate earlier this month, when it learned that it had won a spot in the Elite Franchise Top 100 – for the third consecutive year. Despite a difficult economic climate due to the ravages of Covid, Razzamataz has both survived and thrived, thanks to its robust infrastructure and business models.
Scott English, brand director of Elite Franchise, explained why Razzamataz continue to be among the UK’s top franchising businesses: “With the top 100 list we take into account sales and growth figures, as well as training and support systems across networks. This year, brands were also judged on measures they initiated to survive the unprecedented challenges of 2020, along with ambitions and growth targets for the next financial year. This is testament to all that Razzamataz has achieved. They have consistently demonstrated a gold-standard level of franchising.”
