Smart Cartridge seeks US and European growth

Scottish franchisor Smart Cartridge, which refills and remanufactures ink cartridges for copiers and fax machines, has revealed its international expansion plans for 2007. "We have just opened our second franchisee operation in the Dominican Republic and we have enquiries daily from all over the world," says International Development Director Suzie McCafferty. 'During 2007 we intend to expand our presence in Europe and also gain a significant foothold in the North American market.

With 60 franchised outlets established in the UK, Ireland, Portugal and Spain, the company has achieved a reported annual turnover of £6 million and has attracted interest from prospective franchisees in Germany, Italy and France.

"I think our strong branding, proven profitable business model and multiple range of products and services have been key to our success in the UK and overseas," adds McCafferty. "The last five years have been about putting in place procedures and infrastructure. The next few years will really see the business grow.

"The US is something we've planned for over the last couple of years. The problem lies in each state having different franchise laws. It's a difficult market to get into and we had to be very well prepared."