Hole in One
This golf lover chose a franchise that fit him to a tee.
The weather never changes and the course is no bigger than a
cubicle, but what Eric T. Head's indoor golf school franchise,
GolfTec, lacks in scenery, it makes up for in technology. His
school, opened in May 2004, is equipped with everything from
cameras to capture views of students' postures to digital video
and downloadable lessons to help students develop the perfect
swing. Yet, as advanced as the school is, Head, 45, has proved that
all it takes is sound business decisions to score big in a short
time.
Head opened his franchise in Austin, Texas, because he knew the
city's residents were passionate about golf. He also took
advantage of the franchisor's relationship with a national
golf-store chain, and by placing his franchise in one of its Austin
stores, he increased sales and attracted students. The clincher has
been the care he takes to hire good employees. "We have some
of the greatest technology to provide a better golf experience, but
without great people, it doesn't help," Head says.
In March, Head opened a second location and, as of press time,
projected first-year sales for the original store to reach $350,000
to $450,000. But for Head, GolfTec represents more than just a
franchise. It symbolizes a love for a game that keeps him and his
customers returning for more. Says Head, "All it takes is one
fabulous shot to bring you back."
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