Daniel Carabott has jumped at opportunities in life, and that’s what has led him to be the top franchisee in the Appliance Tagging Services network.

“I’m very good at taking opportunities when I see them,” says the former retail manager turned business owner.

Daniel had moved from a family retail business to managing a Target store before giving up the long hours in retail for a short spell in carpentry.

Then the opportunity to run his own business “fell into my lap” he says.

A well-organised business model

Daniel subcontracted for a friend who owned an ATS test and tag franchise and got a taste for the business.

“It was meant to be a six month contract but I decided to buy my own business after three months.

“I saw ATS was well-organised and driven to create work for franchisees. There is a flexible working arrangement so I could see the potential for a better lifestyle.”

Appliance Tagging Services is a specialist in test and tag, safety switch testing and essential safety services. Franchisees provide electrical safety assessments, and more recently, fire protection services.

Daniel bought his brand new territory 12 years ago. Within two years he had brought on an employee who still works with him today.

The ATS business model is based on repeat business. Testing and tagging is mostly an annual service; however some clients require six monthly or quarterly visits.

Daniel has built up his business through excellent customer service. He is the first to admit he doesn’t enjoy cold calling.

“I don’t have the confidence to do that. But I’m very good at customer referrals. ATS would generate leads and I would convert them to a booking. 

“Of course if you’re not getting leads, you still have to generate work, you can’t just rely on the franchisor to do that.

Strong customer service leads to a brilliant business

“I’ve been quite successful,” he says modestly, and then reveals he is the top ranked franchisee, based on sales!

“When I started out I didn’t expect to reach this level,” he admits.

“Retail gave me a good background in customer service, and that is the most important aspect of business. I pride myself on my customer service and I will go over and above for a customer,” he says.

The franchisor’s support has also been an important factor in business growth. ATS handles franchisees’ debt collection and invoicing, creates databases, and reports for clients, and provides franchisees with a field booking system.

All these elements allows franchise owners like Daniel to maximise the potential of their business – and to take up new opportunities when they arise.

“I took the opportunity to grow my business with a new fire service ATS introduced,” he says. “I could see the possibility of good income. Now a fair portion of my business is fire-based.

Appliance Tagging Services lifestyle is a big drawcard

“This is a good business. I like the flexibility, I don’t want to be in the office. I enjoy being out on the road, running my own schedule.

“I get home to pick up the kids. I start at 7 or 8am and a long day finishes at 4pm. Sometimes I’m home by lunchtime.”

It is rare for Daniel to work weekends, and with his employee Paul stepping up in the business when needed, he is able to take holidays.

“In 2017 I took three months off and travelled with the family to Italy, Switzerland and Malta. 

“With Appliance Tagging Services I’m in complete control of my time.”