CASH GENERATOR, the second-hand goods retailer, is looking for talented entrepreneurs to start up a new franchise store in York.

Once an entrepreneur has been found and trained, the new outlet in York will take Cash Generator's portfolio of franchisee-operated stores to a total of 81.

Brian Lewis, founder and chairman of Cash Generator and current chairman of the British Franchise Association, said: "It's a very exciting time.

"We plan to open a further 175 stores in the UK by 2010.

"York has been identified as a key market for expansion and we are looking for talented local business people who are dedicated to making a success of their own business and not afraid of a hard work. Cash Generator offers enormous potential for driven and ambitious self starters."

The local economy would also benefit, he said, pointing out that each store can create up to seven jobs, while local people will have the opportunity to recycle their unwanted goods for cash.

Research commissioned by Cash Generator demonstrates both significant growth in the sale of quality second-hand goods in the UK and its increasing acceptance by consumers as a high-street purchasing option.

Internet-based auction sites, such as e-bay, and an increasing desire to recycle goods for cash, means British consumers are now happy to consider purchasing quality second-hand alternatives.

Some 78 per cent of people questioned as part of the research said they would be willing to buy used items such as electrical goods, CDs and DVDs.

Franchisees will need to invest minimum of £150,000 (of which £45,000 must be liquid) but, claims the company, they can expect to earn up to £60,000 in the first year of trading with potential to earn £100,000 in the third year - a short time in which to recover the initial investment and make significant profits.

Franchisees will be provided with "comprehensive training, full corporate support and help through national marketing and brand building activities for the potential 20 years of the franchise," said Mr Lewis.

For further information, he suggests, phone 01204 574444.

Updated: 11:36 Monday, January 31, 2005