Alan Franks considers himself a lucky business owner. Firstly, he makes money. And secondly, he gets to tap into the wisdom of his counterparts on a daily basis.

For the past six years Alan has owned and operated a Bedshed franchise in Mornington, Victoria in partnership with his son Elton.

At 62, Alan has a wealth of retailing experience, having worked for a large electrical retailer before making his way into the furniture and bedding sector. He is also a former owner of a stand-alone furniture business, which by his own admission, "was very hard going".