The Winning Franchisee | Local Cousins Join Forces to Take Over Ownership of TWO MEN AND A TRUCK® in Chicago’s West Suburbs

Rikki Forgwe has been a loyal employee of TWO MEN AND A TRUCK*® in North Aurora for the past 15 years. He began as a mover in Michigan and worked his way up to general manager of North Aurora locations. When Forgwe was a mover, the franchise owner of the two stores gave him his word he would sell the business to him when the right time came. After a few conversations, Forgwe convinced his cousin Erik Andersen to join him in this new business venture. It didn’t take much convincing Andersen, who was tired of commuting into the city to practice law for the past 24 years. The two men officially became business partners in November of 2021.

Both men agree family is at the core of their new business adventure. As both cousins and fathers, the men understand creating a culture of community and family within the business. Growing up together in the area, they have seen the changes the community has endured. They have plans to expand and evolve their businesses to better serve community needs and bring more jobs to their respective communities.

1851: What did you do before franchising?

Forgwe: We are first cousins. We’ve known each other all our lives. Professionally, I was the general manager of the two locations I own now for 14 years. I worked my way up through the company after I started as a mover at the age of 18. I’ve been with TWO MEN AND A TRUCK® my entire working life.

Andersen: I was a partner at a law firm in Chicago. I’ve been an attorney since 1998. When the opportunity to go into business with Rikki arose, I couldn’t help but be attracted by the idea of not commuting into the city on a daily basis and working crazy, long hours. Traffic is exhausting after working long days in the office. 

1851: How did you initially learn about franchising?

Andersen: I learned the ins and outs of franchising through Rikki’s relationship with the franchise. I knew of his career path over the years, and I would learn more about the business through casual conversation and meeting up over beers.

1851: When did you start looking for a franchise? How long until you signed?

Forgwe: I moved out to the area for a change of scenery with a young family. I didn’t have money at the time to buy the franchise when I spoke with my boss at the time. My boss kept his word that he would sell me the business down the road, and I’m so thankful for that friendship and promise all those years ago. I would say around a year ago, talks between us got more serious. Erik was tired of commuting to the city, and things sort of fell into place logically. We had an initial conversation with the owner four years ago and would discuss taking over from him over occasional beers throughout the years.

1851: How did you decide you wanted to be a franchisee?

Andersen: TWO MEN AND A TRUCK® was the perfect combo of good business that served the local community. I wanted to continue serving the public and my community while transitioning into my new role. Rikki made that transition seamless for me. It was simply a unique opportunity I couldn’t pass up.

1851: How did you perform your research/due diligence?

Andersen: Rikki has an established relationship with his former boss and he taught him everything. Rikki already knew the day-to-day operations, so he was my main teacher throughout this whole process. Rikki’s former boss remains a consultant to us and answers any questions that we have. He’s been a valuable resource to have getting started and someone we know we can rely on. We studied the financial aspects of the job over time and researched our market and audience extensively, so we are well-equipped.

1851: How many brands did you look at? 

Forgwe: I’ve been with TWO MEN AND A TRUCK® all these years and my loyalty is to them in this new chapter of my career and life.

1851: What made you say yes to TWO MEN AND A TRUCK®? 

Forgwe: The relationships I’ve created and 15 years of business built up are why I am still with the company. When my former boss was finally ready to hand over the business, I knew it was my time.

1851: What could have scared you away? 

Andersen: Nothing could have scared us away; we were all in from the get-go! I understand hiring movers right now is hard, but it's a challenge we are willing to take on. Every industry is fighting that battle, but that won’t last forever.