Whakatane Success Story: How Flooring Design Franchisees Thrived Despite Challenges
Starting a business just two days before New Zealand’s first Covid-19 lockdown would be daunting for most, but Dave and Marcia Bragg took it in their stride. Confident in the Flooring Design franchise model and their own abilities, they saw the disruption as temporary and remained focused on future success. Fast forward three years, and their Whakatane store is one of the top-performing locations in the network, achieving a multi-million dollar turnover.
Why Flooring Design?
With decades of flooring industry experience, Dave knew exactly what to look for in a franchise partner. After working for Flooring Design Rotorua, he recognised the brand’s high-quality product range, robust support systems, and collaborative culture as the perfect fit. When a supplier highlighted an opportunity in Whakatane, Dave and Marcia seized the chance to become franchisees.
A Family Business with Community Roots
Marcia brought 20 years of banking and business management experience to the venture, joining the business full-time nine months after opening. The couple quickly built their reputation by offering exceptional service and quality installations, leading to rapid growth. Their team expanded to include a storeman and two additional full-time staff to manage quoting, installations, and customer service.
The Braggs’ dedication to the community played a huge role in their success. They joined local business networks, sponsored sports clubs and events, and advertised on the local radio station – all of which helped raise their profile. Even their friendly dog Indie became a well-known part of the customer experience!
Residential & Commercial Success
While residential projects drove early success, the team also secured commercial contracts with builders, schools, sports clubs, and businesses. Thanks to Flooring Design’s national supplier relationships and Dave’s reliability, local builders now choose them as their first call for flooring projects.
Unmatched Franchise Support
Flooring Design’s no-royalty franchise model played a key role in their success. With profits remaining in the business, the Braggs could reinvest into staff and marketing. Head office handles bookkeeping, freeing up 20+ hours a week for customer service and business growth.
In-house marketing, commercial sales support, and a collaborative network of franchisees give every store the tools to thrive. The brand’s exclusive supplier partnerships and robust management systems provide further advantages.
Join Flooring Design
If you’re looking for a franchise that offers strong support, proven systems, and the chance to build your own success story, Flooring Design is expanding into new territories across New Zealand, including Auckland, Wellington, and the South Island.
With no ongoing royalties, full administration support, and a collaborative community, it’s the perfect opportunity for driven owner-operators.
Contact us today to learn more about available opportunities.