From family shop to franchise success
How Gagandeep Basainty built a thriving retail business with One Stop
We had the pleasure of attending the grand opening of our new franchise store on Garth Avenue in Pontypridd. There, we caught up with Gagandeep Basainty, a dynamic young entrepreneur who is making impressive strides in the convenience retail sector with the launch of her third One Stop franchise.
During our visit, we spoke with Gagandeep about her journey with One Stop Franchise and the positive impact the brand has had on the growth and success of her business.
Meet Gagandeep Basainty: The female entrepreneur from Wales opening her third One Stop Store
1. Can you tell us a little about your background and what inspired you to go into retail?
“Retail has always been part of my DNA. I was just 12 when my family opened our first convenience store in Wales. My parents had moved to the UK from India with nothing but determination and a dream. They worked incredibly hard to build something of their own, and I grew up watching that work ethic first-hand. Helping out in the shop after school and on weekends quickly turned into a passion. It was more than just a family business—it was a way of life, and I always knew I’d follow in their footsteps.”
2. What was your journey to becoming a One Stop franchisee — how did it all start?
“I opened my first store at 25, my second at 29, and now at 32, I’m proud to be opening my third One Stop. Each store has been a new chapter in my journey, and every step has taught me something valuable about the industry—and about myself.”
3. What made you choose One Stop as your franchise partner?
“We initially ran a Family Shopper store but started hearing great things about One Stop from friends in the industry. So we did our homework—visited successful One Stop stores in places like Birmingham, Swansea and Manchester—and we were genuinely impressed.”
“What stood out was the backing from Tesco, the well-thought-out franchise model, and the level of ongoing support available. From help with the initial setup to ongoing business reviews with our BDM, and even having the Franchise Action Line available during our trading hours, One Stop offers support that’s both practical and accessible. It felt like a no-brainer.”
4. Who or what has been your biggest inspiration in business so far?
“My dad has always been my biggest inspiration. His drive, his resilience, and the sacrifices he made to build a future for us have shaped everything I do. Watching him succeed in business inspired me to chase that same success in my own way.”
“From day one, One Stop gave me a clear process and a team that actually cares. I’ve never felt like I was on my own and that’s what gives you confidence to keep growing.”
5. You’re now opening your third store — what lessons did you learn from the first that you’re taking into this new chapter?
“With each store, I’ve gained more confidence. Now I know how to get everything up and running efficiently—from using the systems to daily routines like stock checks and performance indicators. Once you’ve built a solid foundation, it becomes easier to take that leap again.”
6. What does a typical day look like for you running a One Stop store?
“Every day starts with placing orders within the set timeframes, followed by checking in with staff to make sure everything’s ticking along—daily checks, markdowns, labelling, PI stock counts—it all matters. Before closing, I make sure everyone’s followed through with their end-of-day routines. It’s about consistency and teamwork.”
7. What has the support from One Stop looked like throughout your journey?
“The support from One Stop has honestly been a game-changer. From day one, we’ve had a clear process and a team that actually cares. Our Business Development Manager checks in regularly, not just to tick boxes, but to give us advice and make sure we’re on track. The Franchise Action Line has saved us countless hours—it’s open whenever we’re open, which means help is always just a phone call away.”
“Whether it’s technical, operational or something else, there’s always someone at One Stop ready to help. I’ve never felt like I was on my own, and that’s what gives you the confidence to keep growing.”
“It’s hard work – but you’re your own boss, you’re in control, and you get to make a difference. I’ve found real joy in giving back to my community through my stores.”
Women in Convenience & Representation
8. What does being a woman in the convenience retail industry mean to you?
It’s empowering. I think women often bring a different kind of creativity and emotional intelligence to the table. We think outside the box, communicate well, and bring a sense of confidence to customer interactions and team management.
9. How do you think the landscape is changing for women in this space?
It’s definitely evolving. More and more women are stepping into convenience retail, and brands like One Stop are making that possible by offering the kind of support and structure that helps you succeed. Yes, it takes hard work and dedication at the start—but once you’re in, the confidence and sense of achievement are incredible.
10. Why do you think it’s important to have more women in leadership roles in retail and franchising?
Women tend to lead strong, motivated teams. We’re also more aware of the wider impact of our decisions—on staff, on customers, and on the community. That kind of leadership is vital in retail.
Challenges & Triumphs
11. What’s been your biggest challenge as a franchisee — and how did you overcome it?
“The biggest challenge was probably getting used to the scale of responsibility that comes with running multiple stores. At first, I found it tough to balance my time, especially when something went wrong in one store while I was working on another. But I overcame that by building strong teams I could trust.”
“Delegating, training, and empowering my staff has made all the difference—and now I can focus more on growing the business, knowing that the day-to-day is in good hands.”
12. What’s been your proudest moment to date?
“Without a doubt, today—opening my third store. The building was in a terrible state when we took it over. We put in a huge amount of work to completely renovate it, and now it’s a vibrant community store. Seeing that transformation, and knowing it will serve local people for years to come, is incredibly fulfilling.”
13. Have you ever faced any misconceptions or stereotypes as a young woman in business, and how did you tackle them?
“Not really, I’ve been lucky in that sense. But I’ve always believed that actions speak louder than words—if you do the work and lead with confidence, respect follows.”
Community & Impact
14. How do you see your store(s) playing a role in the local community?
“We offer everyday essentials right on people’s doorsteps, and we also create local job opportunities. Our stores are a part of the community, not just businesses within it.”
15. What do you enjoy most about being part of the One Stop network?
“I genuinely enjoy the day-to-day of shop life—going from store to store, seeing growth in action, and solving problems as they come up. There’s a real sense of satisfaction in overcoming challenges and keeping things moving forward.”
Advice and the future
16. What advice would you give to other women thinking about becoming franchisees or entering the convenience sector?
“Go for it! It’s hard work, especially in the beginning, but the rewards are worth it. You’re your own boss, you’re in control, and you get to make a difference. I’ve found real joy in giving back to my community through my stores.”
17. Where do you see yourself and your business in the next five years?
“Retired! (laughs) Joking aside, I’d love to open another two stores. I’m always looking for the next opportunity.”
18. If you could give one message to your younger self before starting this journey, what would it be?
“Believe in yourself. I used to lack confidence, and if I could go back, I’d tell myself to trust in my abilities more. You’re capable of so much more than you think.”
Just for fun
19. One thing people would be surprised to learn about you?
“The only other job/work experience I have had was in China!”
20. Power song that gets you pumped?
“Malwa Block by Sidhu Moosewala”
21. Favourite aisle in your store?
“Beer cave”
22. Best way to unwind after a busy day in-store?
“Ginger tea”
23. Best piece of business advice you’ve ever received?
“If you are going to do something, do it from the bottom of your heart!”
Gagandeep Basainty with the One Stop team after a successful opening of her family’s third store.
