Introducing the new owner of Caremark Wandsworth!  

We extend a warm welcome to the latest addition to the Caremark franchise network, Maggie Otto of Caremark Wandsworth! 

We sat down with Maggie who has recently purchased Wandsworth in a resale, to find out more about what she thought of the induction training at the end of last year, the onboarding process so far, what she’s looking forward to and why she’s chosen to franchise with us.  

What have you thought of the induction, was it useful?  

“For the induction I think to be honest it was very informative and very helpful because at the beginning I thought 8 days is too long but now I know it will definitely help us. This is providing service but is a lot of policies and regulations which is more than any other sector.”  

It does prepare you for what you’ll be facing! And our team don’t just let you loose after 8 days of training, we’re always here to give you a hand.  

“Also the reason I came to Caremark is the brand and the model. As a franchisee I don’t have to think about how to do it, I just have the model there ready for me to follow and that makes me feel must easier and better that someone is supporting me, and makes me feel more confident.” 

You’re set up for success that way aren’t you because you know what works. What else drew you to Caremark in comparison to competitors?  

“I looked at other competitors but I didn’t look into it too much. When I originally searched online earlier this year I was looking for a resale as I wasn’t brave enough to start from scratch, and it suits my situation. So I contacted, I didn’t expect them to reply to me quickly but they did, and it made me see they were serious and they do care. My honest answer!” 

And what drew you to home care?  

“I volunteered for Age UK for almost 3 years. I spent about 1.5 hours a week talking to older people, and their today is my tomorrow! So I know the customers and during COVID I felt I could do it even more so I left my previous business. My previous place before Caremark was a restaurant which was also providing a service so I thought okay, restaurants and care have a similarity. But after the induction I realised its FAR more complicated! I’m ready to take the challenge and very willing to do it as I’m interested.” 

It’s amazing that you have that background and already know your customers and feel bonded with them.  

“Everyone has their stories and are like a book.” 

What story left a mark? 

“The saddest are harder to forget but you see how brave elderly women have been/are.”  

Have you been to speak to speak to any other Caremark franchise owners yet? 

“Not yet, only the seller. We have talked a lot and he’s kindly giving me a 3 month transition period. If you come to this industry you must have a good heart.” 

Absolutely, it appeals to a certain type of person doesn’t it. Good! What are you looking forward to most about running the franchise? 

“In the business sense, I’m looking forward to increasing the number of customers. I want to beat my competitors! On a personal level, its not only to benefit other people but myself too. I’ve not known these systems with my background, I wasn’t born here and immigrated here from China in 2002. So I’m learning for myself. Another reason I came to Caremark as a franchisee is because my previous company was a franchise as well. I prefer this, with the support, the model, its easier for us.” 

It’s much lower risk going with an established franchise like Caremark, we’re celebrating our 20 years which is 20 years of doing something right!  

“I’ve also seen all those pictures [points to wall of franchise owner pictures] and its very diverse here so everyone has their own background.” 

Exactly! And the last question, how have you found the support from Caremark up to now?  

“Very good!” 

Thank you very much for your time and enjoy your celebratory lunch after an intense few days!