Interview with 7 year franchise owner, Ken Chu

Starting a business is never easy, but turning it into a thriving, customer-loved franchise is even harder.

Ken Chu did just that with Jim’s Mowing.

After facing financial struggles and bankruptcy, he took a leap of faith in 2018 and hasn’t looked back.

Today, Ken runs a highly successful mowing business with over 100 loyal customers, a 4.8-star rating, and the financial security he once thought was out of reach.

In this episode:

Ken shares his inspiring journey from financial hardship to business success with Jim’s Mowing.

He talks about the lessons he learned, the importance of exceptional customer service, and how the support from Jim’s Group helped him navigate challenges.

Whether you’re considering a franchise or looking to grow your own business, Ken’s insights will show you what it takes to succeed.

Key Takeaways:

• From Bankruptcy to Booming Business.
  Ken’s journey began with financial struggles, but Jim’s Mowing gave him a fresh start. Within two and a half years, he had paid off his debts and recouped his franchise investment, proving that the business model works.

• Customer Service is the Secret to Growth.
  Ken believes in under-promising and over-delivering. By always meeting customer expectations and taking accountability, he has built a loyal client base and maintained top-tier reviews.

• Diversifying Services Increases Revenue.
  While mowing is his primary service, Ken also offers rubbish removal, landscaping, pruning, and even building planter boxes. These additional services help him maximize earnings and stand out from competitors.

• Running a Mowing Business Keeps You Fit.
  The physical demands of lawn care have improved Ken’s health, helping him stay active while making money. He sees this as a major perk of owning a Jim’s Mowing franchise.

• Support and Mentorship Matter.
  Ken credits much of his success to the ongoing support from Jim’s Group, including regular check-ins and direct access to founder Jim Penman, who personally responds to franchisees.

• Learning and Adaptation are Key.
  When Ken started, he struggled with edging—a critical skill in lawn care. Through practice and watching other franchisees, he mastered it within six months, proving that continuous learning leads to improvement.

• Work-Life Balance is Possible.
  Unlike traditional jobs, running a Jim’s Mowing business allows for flexibility. Ken takes evenings off to spend time with family while maintaining a steady income.

• Taking the Leap is the Hardest Part.
  Ken hesitated for six years before joining Jim’s Mowing. His advice? Don’t wait. The longer you delay, the more opportunities you miss.

If you’re thinking about franchising, Ken’s story proves that with dedication, customer focus, and the right support system, success is within reach.

Tune in now to hear how Jim’s Mowing changed Ken’s life and how it could do the same for you!