Ex-policeman Phil’s cleaning up grime
SPRING is the traditional time for a big clean, but it is a year-round business for franchisees such as Phil Bateman.
The former police detective inspector is always in demand with his Oven Wizards franchise.
The 51-year-old says: ‘It can be messy, but the end result is what counts — a clean, shiny oven and a happy customer.’
Phil once worked on murder investigations and with the Anti-Terrorism Unit, but an accident forced him to retire from his high-pressure role.
‘Being an Oven Wizards franchisee is a world apart f rom my old career,’ he says. ‘These days I have no real stress and meet nice people.’
He chose the franchise from a shortlist of five after reviewing stress factors, overhead costs, management fees and his ability to do the job.
‘Oven Wizards gave a week’s on-the-job training with an experienced operative,’ he adds.
The £12,500 franchise package also includes business and marketing training, plus on-going business support and mentoring.
Oven Wizards managing director John Graham s ays: ‘ You need no previous experience — we look for people with the right attitude.’
Sanondaf franchisees provide disinfection and decontamination services for hospitals, schools, nurseries, care homes and other institutions.
Former physiotherapist Claudia Grant, 34, now the Sanondaf franchisee in Watford, Herts, says: ‘I enjoy introducing this new concept in protecting the working environment.’ Investment starts at £15,000.
The British Franchise Association’s In Business By 30 campaign aims to encourage more young people into franchising. See the bfa.org.uk or search #InBusinessBy30 on Twitter.