Business Models for ATB Success

Every Approved Training Body (ATB) operates uniquely, with various business models shaping its structure and strategy. These models range from complete ownership to franchise-based operations, and many variations in between.

Each model comes with its distinct advantages and challenges. Your choice depends on your specific goals and vision for your ATB. Let’s delve into these options to find the best fit for your aspirations and business style, ensuring you make an informed decision that aligns with your objectives and sets you on the path to success.

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Shaping Your Dream – Create Your Own Adventure

The journey to establishing an Approved Training Body (ATB) is a personal adventure, tailored to your vision and goals. Each decision, from setup to operation, reflects your individual aspirations.

Begin with the DVSA’s guide, your first step in this exciting process. But don’t stop there; this is just the start of shaping an ATB that’s a true extension of your passion and drive. Your unique journey to success starts now.

Elevate your business - 12 Step Plan
Training Instructors

Owning Your Own Business

Business Ownership refers to the control over an enterprise, providing the power to dictate the operations and functions, you make all the decisions and the buck stops with you.

Sole Trader

The individual is the exclusive owner of a business, entitled to keep all profits after tax has been paid but is also liable for all losses that occur.

This can be a lonely place to be with the weight of the world on your shoulders when things are not going well. You may feel better with a mentor or a person to act as a bouncing board if you need any advice.

Partnership

A partnership is a form of business where two or more people share ownership, as well as the responsibility for managing the company and the income or losses the business generates.

You should fully trust anyone you enter into a partnership with and have a strong focus on the business direction. A legal contract is advised in the event of any future conflict.

Limited Company

A Limited Company is a separate legal entity. Shareholders have limited liability, which safeguards personal assets. The company pays corporation tax on profits before distributing dividends.

This model offers financial security but requires compliance with more regulations. Strategic planning and expert advice are essential for effective corporate management.

The Franchise Model

A route for those who want constant support with established systems and brand recognition, a downside is you don’t keep all your profit.

A franchise arrangement legally states that the owner of a business (the franchisor) permits a third party (the franchisee) to operate a business and distribute goods and/or services using their business’s name and systems in return for a fee.

This route is not for everyone as you pay to join a franchise and then make regular payments to stay part of that franchise. It may be a route into a business that creates the feeling of security but in the motorcycle training sector profits are not abundant.

Not For Profit or Charity Status

There are a number of hoops to jump through to create one of these organisations.

A not-for-profit organisation is a business that aims to do something other than to make a profit for the owners, such as providing a public service or helping people. It needs to make enough money to cover its costs, but any surplus is reinvested into the business or used in other ways.

A charity is an organisation with specific purposes defined in law to be charitable and is exclusively for public benefit. This means a charity has to fall into one of a number of categories defined as charitable, such as prevention or poverty relief.