Heading to Namur, with a new face of entrepreneurship Avenir Rénovations!
Today, we introduce you to our new franchisee in Namur, Sébastien Renaud. He is setting up in the Walloon Region, specifically in Namur, to explore all the challenges of entrepreneurship with Avenir Rénovations. In this interview, he shares his journey, motivations, and ambitions for this new chapter within the Avenir Rénovations network.
Can you tell us about your professional background?
I studied management and marketing before working for 26 years in the retail sector for various brands.
Throughout my career, I held several positions: store manager, trainer, internal communications manager, buyer, and then sales director.
At the same time, I have another passion: photography, which I have pursued for six years.
Why did you choose to shift to a different field?
After more than two decades in retail, I felt I had explored it fully. I needed something new and, above all, wanted to become my own boss.
A health issue that arose a year ago was the trigger for me to take the leap and embark on a new professional adventure.
Why did you choose renovation?
I had already worked for eight years on my own in renovation, alongside my main activity. I have fond memories of it, enjoying managing projects, planning, and organizing sites.
I also experienced the renovation of my first three houses and the construction of the fourth, which reinforced my interest in this sector. For me, renovation is an exciting field with a promising future in Belgium, especially due to the aging real estate stock.
Why did you choose to open your business as a franchise?
Initially, I wasn't specifically looking to join a franchise. But an ad from Avenir Rénovations caught my attention. After researching, I was impressed by the concept:
- Benefit from the efficient tools of the network,
- Enjoy the support and expertise of an experienced team,
- And above all, minimize risks by being supported from the launch of my project.
Why did you choose Avenir Rénovations as your franchisor?
Several reasons convinced me:
- The quality of support offered from the project preparation stage,
- The relevance and reliability of the tools provided,
- A unique concept in Belgium that meets strong demand: "turnkey" renovation with a single point of contact and a ten-year guarantee.
In Belgium, few players offer this comprehensive model. Given the importance of real estate and the need to renovate an aging stock, the potential is enormous. Finally, the human contact was also decisive: my conversation with Thomas, the development manager, was very positive and reassuring.
How did you learn about the Avenir Rénovations network?
I discovered Avenir Rénovations through an ad on LinkedIn. Their strong presence on social media, especially YouTube, allowed me to better understand how the franchise works through clear and concrete videos about the reality on the ground.
Can you describe the initial training in a few words?
The training was rich and essential. It allowed me to:
- Thoroughly understand the Avenir Rénovations tools, which are particularly well-designed,
- Acquire the essential foundations to transition from salaried work to entrepreneurship,
- Deepen all aspects of business management and the daily life of a franchisee.
The exchanges with Benjamin, our trainer, were particularly valuable: he conveys his knowledge with clarity, efficiency, and a lot of pedagogy.
The training was also an opportunity to meet other franchisees, both those already active and newly integrated, which enriched the experience.
Do you think you have all the means to launch your agency?
Yes, I feel ready. Of course, there will be daily challenges, but with the support of the headquarters and the solidarity among franchisees, I am confident.