Franchise Focus
Olympian Heights
Wilkins Chimney Sweep is expanding its network and seeks practical, business-minded individuals
investment level: £14,000
franchise with a long history, the original Wilkins began trading in Newbury in 1895. Franchise sales have been brisk since
L
husband-and-wife team Peter and Louise Harris began offering territories in 2010. With spring being the perfect time for a new sweep to begin their training, franchise director Louise is thoroughly looking forward to the show. She says: “Chimney sweeping isn’t glamorous
ow-cost van-based franchise Wilkins Chimney Sweep is packing up its brushes and heading to the British & International Franchise Exhibition at Olympia in March. A new
Steven Gallacher, Mark Frost, John Parker
work, but it’s good, honest graft, perfect for someone who enjoys meeting members of the public, is practical and business-minded and doesn’t mind getting their hands a bit grubby. We currently have four franchisees and would like to take on another five in 2012, with flexible
opportunities for new franchisees starting up.” With more people using fires and wood-
burning stoves to beat rising energy bills, the demand for chimney sweeping has never been higher and the business has some big plus points to consider: • Annual ‘repeat’ customers • A ‘need’ rather than a ‘want’ service – a clean chimney is a safe chimney
• No ‘hard sell’ necessary – work is driven primarily through referral and promotion • Almost entirely debt-free – pay on the day
Franchisee Dave Connolly, who took on his Black Country territory in August 2011, says: “The support I have received from Wilkins
has been brilliant. They have never let me down, they have been there every single time I have needed them.” Wilkins Chimney Sweep, the only bfa-
accredited chimney-sweep operation, fully police-checks all sweeps to offer peace of mind to customers – especially the elderly. n
wilkins chimney sweep
Website:
www.wilkinschimneysweep.co.uk email:
franchise@wilkinschimneysweep.co.uk Phone: 01635 551 454 classification: Property maintenance
72 |
Businessfranchise.com | April 2012
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