If you are thinking about a career change later in life, you are in good company. More people are embracing new paths at every age, proving that a shift in work can be energising, fulfilling and –especially in franchising – well supported. Franchising offers a fantastic opportunity for those ready to bring their life skills into something new, regardless of age.
There is a common misconception that franchising is best suited to young go-getters in their twenties or thirties. While those starting out earlier in life between 20 and 40 certainly benefit from building long-term business careers, the truth is that franchising is equally rewarding – and achievable – for people looking to start fresh later on. Here, Cheryl Harper, MD of Greensleeves Lawn Care, discusses why.
Starting a franchise later in life brings the added advantage of experience – skills honed over years of diverse work and life situations. Many who start later find that they can lean into a franchise with a strong foundation of expertise, whether in customer relations, problem solving or time management, which can greatly accelerate their success.
In fact, franchising has become increasingly popular among those approaching or even beyond midlife. According to the British Franchise Association’s British Franchise Journal 2024, the average age of a franchisee has risen from 44 in 2018 to 48 in 2024. This shift is a testament to the appeal of franchising for those looking to start something fresh, supported by a structured model and with the opportunity to build a lasting business.
One of the biggest appeals of franchising is its plug-and-play setup, a ready-made framework that can be particularly attractive to those stepping into a new chapter later in life. For anyone with a long career behind them, the idea of starting from scratch can feel daunting – figuring out branding, creating systems and developing best practices from the ground up requires time and resources.
Franchising removes those hurdles, offering a complete package: established branding, a proven business model and built-in best practices that allow franchisees to hit the ground running. This supportive foundation lets new franchisees focus on what truly matters – building customer relationships, growing the business and achieving personal goals – rather than getting bogged down with startup logistics.
It is also a fantastic option for those seeking a fresh start without the intention of retiring anytime soon. Many franchisees see their venture as a long-term investment, perfect for those nearing or in semi-retirement who still want flexibility but crave the fulfilment of meaningful work. In fact, some people even come out of retirement to start a franchise after realising they miss the structure and purpose that daily work provides.
With a franchise, entrepreneurs of any age can view their business as an asset to build – one they can eventually pass down to family members or sell as an established enterprise when the time comes. And, for those interested in entering a new field they have always had an eye on but perhaps not the experience, franchising opens doors. It provides the support and training needed to explore a passion without needing an extensive background in the industry.
This is exactly how Kevin Lynagh found his way into the Greensleeves network. At 56, after a life filled with diverse experiences – from military service to teaching abroad – Kevin’s journey into franchising serves as a true testament to what can be achieved at any stage in life. As he puts it, “Everything I’ve achieved in my life, I’ve achieved later in life.”
When Kevin returned to Scotland from Saudi Arabia, where he had spent years teaching, he was ready for something new. A chance encounter with a local franchisee sparked his interest in lawn care, a passion he had developed overseas. “I started taking care of my lawn when I was in Saudi. I wouldn’t let anyone else touch it! When I moved back, I got chatting to the local franchisee and, the more I learned, the more intrigued I became. I started helping him out, asking questions about the model. Before I knew it, I was hooked.”
Kevin’s story highlights how franchising can offer a unique balance for those re-entering the workforce. “Deep down, I wanted to work for myself. I didn’t want to just slip into a role where I was just a number. Working outside, being my own boss, having a network I can call on – it just made sense. This is me until I retire now. I don’t see myself stopping anytime soon.”
For many franchisees like Kevin, the decision to invest in a franchise is not just about income but one that often becomes a deeply fulfilling second career. Unlike roles that can leave you counting the days until retirement, franchising offers a sense of purpose and continuity that is perfect for those who are not ready to slow down.
With support, flexibility and a proven model, it is a path with no expiration date on opportunity – an empowering option for those seeking a change and ready to bring their life’s learning to a new venture.
For more information about a franchise opportunity with Greensleeves Lawn Care, visit www.greensleevesfranchise.co.uk
