Prior to the economic downturn, Eric Diaz was managing a department that handled futures systems for Merrill Lynch in New York. Today he’s a full-time pet groomer, riding around Hudson County, New Jersey in a tricked out Mercedes van replete with two 65-gallon water drums, a hydro tub and a host of shampoos, conditioners and other doggie styling aids.
“I really love doing this,” said Diaz, who purchased his Aussie Pet Mobile franchise outright in December 2008 after taking a voluntary retirement package from the troubled investment bank in May. He had looked at several other franchises, including check-cashing and tax-preparation concepts before deciding he wanted to get as far away from the financial world as possible.
“I used to go home mentally exhausted,” said Diaz, who for competitive reasons declines to disclose the details of his franchise purchase. “Today I am pressure free.”
Diaz is characteristic of a new wave of entrants into the world of franchised systems, the proven business ideas that after the expense of licensing fees, equipment and other costs, offer would-be entrepreneurs access to operational guidelines, well-known brands, marketing and a network of other franchisees they can turn to for support. Read more.
