Fast-fit chain HiQ is looking to swell its 137 centres to 275 over the next three years and expects 500 jobs to be created as a result.

HiQ is now extending its franchise model to more towns and cities with 41 franchisees now operating 137 HiQ centres, compared to just 15 franchisees operating 33 centres in 2007.

Juergen Titz, HiQ retail director, said: “The objective is to grow the business with new open points in towns and cities. The plan is to get 170 centres by the end of this year and 275 by 2012.

“The franchisee network is investing more than £2 million into improved customer environments in 2009, and this franchise concept will increase transparency and certainty for our customers.”

HiQ has invested heavily in developing a bespoke training programme for its employees as part of its new concept for fast fit in the UK.

Titz added: “To promise fast fit you can be sure of requires significant investment and a clear understanding of our core beliefs within our franchise business structure. We know that franchisees are aligned with this belief which is key in out-performing our competitors.

“The increased profile of HiQ, and our long term commitment to the network, has played a major role in attracting quality franchise investments.”

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