Next Gen Franchisee
Ash Nairn (left) with Ashley Templeton (right) at the BurgerFuel Broad Ripple opening in May 2017.
Ash Nairn started working at BurgerFuel Fairy Springs at the age of 15. Now, at the age of 21, she owns the place. Ash talks to us about how she got involved with BurgerFuel and the journey she took to achieve her dream!
When did you start working at BurgerFuel and why?
April 2nd, 2014 and at 15 years old! My parents had been regular customers of Ryan Petch and Francie Porter since BurgerFuel first came to Rotorua. The vibe was fun, fast and loud and just ultimately a really awesome brand that I wanted to work for. It was a huge struggle being 15 years old and actually finding someone that would hire me at that age. Thankfully Ryan and Francie saw something in me and gave me the chance that I needed.
How did you move through the ranks? What roles did you do?
I started my first shift as a part time crew member after school. At 16 years old I was promoted to a part time DSM (Day Shift Manager) and ran the weekend shifts and holidays while still at school. Once I finished school, at 18 years old, I went full time and progressed on to Store Manager and have been in that role for the last 3 years. I was also selected as part of the USA training team for the first BurgerFuel store in the US and flew to Indianapolis to train the crew in customer service for 2 months. Which brings me to where I am today, with the backing and support from my family, Francie and Ryan. It’s been a long, hard battle but has been worth every minute of it!
When did you realise you wanted to buy a franchise?
I always knew I wanted to own something, I'm bossy, I love being in charge. BurgerFuel is in my blood and I have an undying passion for the brand. Once I finished school at 18 years old I expressed an interest to Francie that I wanted to own my own BurgerFuel Franchise, 3 years on and here we are.
Why did you want to do that?
I have the industry experience; knowledge is power and I am a powerhouse when it comes to BurgerFuel. I love the brand and have always loved my job. I love a challenge and this was the next step up from my current position as Store Manager.
How do you think you will cope being "the boss" at a young age?
We have an amazing team here at BurgerFuel Fairy Springs and with their support I know this will be a huge success. It will be hard and a never-ending challenge but I'm ready to take whatever gets thrown at me. I've always been super hardworking and treated this business as my own since day one and the staff really respect that.
What's your goals in terms of BurgerFuel? (The store currently, and will you want to buy other franchises down the track?)
Lots and lots of community involvement! Catering is a huge thing we want to kickstart in Rotorua. Work meetings, functions, parties, special events, weddings, birthday celebrations, sports teams, ANYTHING, we can cater for 6 people or 600! Ring the store to find out more! We also want to get behind our local businesses, tradies, gyms, hotels, motels, schools, events. Help us help you and get in touch with us on 07 3431113.
Why is BurgerFuel a good company to get involved with?
The brand as a whole is amazing. There are so many opportunities and career paths that are a real possibility for someone starting out as a staff member in a store. They really care about their staff and there are a tonne of benefits. And then there’s the burgers; Just delicious tasting food made from quality ingredients, that I’m proud to serve our customers. From the smashed juicy grass-fed beef and free-range chicken to options for anyone and everyone, like vegetarians, vegans, flexitarians, gluten free, even Halal. Not to mention we care about the planet (with our ‘Enviro-mental’ message), we’re innovative (have you used the DOOFER?)…and that addictive aioli, I mean what’s not to love?