East London Small Business Centre

He enrolled onto the four-day training course,  which gave  him the confidence and knowledge needed to embark on his new venture. He was then referred to East London Small Business Centre’s dedicated franchise advisor who supported with the evaluation of a Subway franchise opportunity.

Eight years later, Abiy’s success story is both inspirational and heart-warming. He owns four Subway franchise outlets, three in the West End and one in Tower Hamlets and employs 56 full and part-time staff. Abiy has seen steady growth across his four outlets and still continues to see his business counsellor.

Abiy said: “From day one I’ve been extremely happy with the support I’ve received from East London Small Business Centre. Not only did they guide me in the right direction, but I've also received a £20k loan to help me with the last Subway Franchise I opened in .”

Having reached his business goals, Abiy set up a charity dedicated to helping Ethiopian street children and their families. According to Abiy, he would not have been able to make this difference if he hadn't decided to become self-employed.