Little steps for a big success

With an aim to provide Montessori education in India, Santosh Sathe, Director, Canadian Play School ventured into education Industry. In a dialogue with Ekta Verma, he talks about his brand’s strategies to expand via the franchise route and outshine in the Indian market.

What motivated you to get into education industry?

Entrepreneurship is not about starting a business. It is about seeking for opportunities. I always wanted to setup something of my own and after providing training for a long time, I started looking for opportunities in training and education sector. Finally, I decided to quit my job and setup a small venture of distance learning education. I got associated with universities dealing in distance education. After analysing the education sector for numerous years now, I have come up with Canadian Play School Chain in India to provide Montessori education.

What kind of training and support do you provide to your franchisees? 

We help our franchisees in the finalising the location. Also, consulting them in civil and paint works, staff, selection etc. Promotional and marketing support includes area specific marketing plan and execution support. Under the academic support, curriculum, worksheets and examination papers are provided on a monthly basis.

What are the pre requisites for franchisee selection?

 Partnerships can be wonderful thing for an entrepreneur. We would want to associate with someone who is passionate and is able to deliver the business goals. He must also possess required skills and should be able to manage kids.

Share the current and targeted number of outlets. 

We are planning to grow gradually. By 2014 Dec, we have planned to open 60 playschools across India.

Which all cities are you tapping for expansion in India and abroad?

 We are targeting all the tier II and III cities pan-India. By Jan 2015, we will start expanding our branches overseas. Initially the countries which we have identified are Mauritius, Kenya, Philippines and Thailand. 

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