Franchisee Name: Kobus Schoeman 

Franchise Name: Digit Tracecor 

Location of Franchise: Centurion 

1. Why did you go down the franchise route?

I chose the franchise route because it provided me with a proven business model, established brand credibility, and a structured system to run my business efficiently. Digit FMS has a strong reputation in the fleet management and vehicle tracking industry, and joining a franchise allowed me to minimise risk while maximising business potential.

2. Why did you choose your franchise?

Digit FMS stands out in the industry due to its own innovative products, strong franchise support system, and recurring revenue model. The company’s cutting-edge technology – including real-time fuel tracking (DFuel), bulk fuel monitoring (D-Bulk), and advanced tracking solutions – gives franchisees a competitive edge in the market. Additionally, Digit FMS provides its franchisees with extensive training, operational support, and marketing assistance, ensuring long-term success.

3. How did you raise the finance?

I secured financing through a combination of personal savings and internal investor contributions. The Digit FMS franchise model is structured in a way that allows for low initial overheads while ensuring steady income generation through subscription-based services.

4. What training and support did you receive initially and ongoing?

Digit FMS offers comprehensive initial training and continuous support, including:

• Technical training on installing and managng tracking devices.
• Software training to navigate Digit FMS’s tracking and fuel monitoring platforms.
• Sales and marketing training to helo franchisees grow their customer base.
• Ongoing support, including updates on technology, troubleshooting assistance, and guidance from the Digit HQ team.

This support system ensures that franchisees stay ahead of the competition and effectively manage their operations.

5. What is a typical day for you as franchisee? 

A typical day as a Digit FMS franchisee involves:

• Client consultations and sales meetings to introduce potential customers to Digit FMS’s innovative solutions.
• Managing installations and system intergrations for new clients.
• Providing customer support and troubleshooting for existing clients.
• Monitoring vehicle tracking data and generating reports for fleet managers.
• Engaging in marketing and business development activities to expand the customer base.

6. What challenges have you faced? 

Like any busisness, challenges arise, including:

• Educating customers on the value of tracking and fuel monitoring solutions. 
• Competing with larger players in the market while demonstrating the superior local service and unique features of Digit FMS.
• Managing operational logistics, including installations, support, and administrative tasks.

However, Digit’s strong franchise support system has helped me navigate these challenge effectively.

7. Has becoming a franchisee changed your life, if so how? 

Absolutely! Being a Digit FMS franchisee has provided me with:

• Financial independence and a stable income stream.
• The flexibility to manage my own business while receiving strong support.
• A growing network of business contacts in the fleet management industry.
• A sense of achievement in helping businesses prevent financial losses and improve operational efficiency.

8. What advice would you give to someone thinking of buying their first franchise?

• Do your research: Ensure the franchise has a strong support system and a profitable business model. 
• Choose a franchise with a growing market: Fleet management and vehicle tracking and various security solutions is a high-demand industry.
• Leverage the franchise support: Digit FMS provides excellent training – use it to your advantage.
• Focus on customer service: Retaining clients ensures steady recurring revenue.

9. What are your plans for the future? 

I plan to expand my client base, explore new business sectors, and possibly open additional franchise locations to serve more businesses needing fleet tracking and fuel monitoring solutions. 

10. Would you do it again? 

Without a doubt! The Digit FMS franchise model has proven to be profitable, sustainable, and rewarding. The indusrty continues to grow, and with Digit FMS’s constant innovation and support, I am confident in long-term success.