In 2012 newly married boilermaker Gerard Griggs decided he was tired of travelling for work and wanted to change his lifestyle completely. He came across Aussie Farmers Direct and the rest, they say, is history.

“I had always been drawn to the idea of running my own business and being my own boss. I looked for something that would involve less travel and provide me with more time at home with my family,” says Gerard.

He began to consider Aussie Farmers Direct, a franchise that specialises in delivering groceries to people’s homes, following a suggestion from his sister.

“My sister Lisa had been an Aussie Farmers Direct customer for years and had heard that franchise opportunities were available in South Australia. She guided us towards the company.”

There are a number of things that drew Gerard into the brand. “I liked the structure of the company and could see that they provided support at all levels of the business.

“The company’s franchise model meant that I could interact with the community rather than sit behind a desk. After years of boilermaking, it suited me to continue to do physical work – delivering for Aussie Farmers Direct certainly keeps you fit!” he says.

Gerard explains the brand offers a wealth of support, and importantly, staff are both helpful and friendly. “They have mentored us and shared ideas on how to grow and expand our franchise.

“I particularly enjoy ringing Elaine and Delia at franchisee support, who are always helpful and ready with a joke.”

Gerard and his wife Lexie invested their savings into the business, and both are involved in its operation.

“I enjoy working with my wife. We help each other out with different ideas. Lexie looks after all the behind the scenes work, such as newsletters and flyers, and as a qualified GP, she keeps me fit and healthy,” he says.

The business affords Gerard the opportunity to work from home, which makes it much easier to juggle his work and home life.

“Working from home means that I can choose my work hours. I spend my time managing my drivers and meeting schools, clubs and customers.

“It also allows me to be involved with the local Country Fire Service (CFS) and to cook dinner most nights – much to Lexie’s delight,” he says.

The future is looking bright for the pair, with a second franchise in the pipeline. “We are planning to start our second franchise, expand our local business, and continue to gain knowledge about owning a small business.”