A Q&A session with Ovenclean

After 16 years working in the prison service, Graham Kerridge that it was time for a career and a lifestyle change. In September 2013, he took the opportunity to invest in an Ovenclean franchise and hasn’t looked back since.

What appealed to you about running a business with Ovenclean?

I never anticipated that I would own my own business and be working for Ovenclean. It just happened that I was looking through a business magazine and there was an Ovenclean advert. I liked what I saw so I booked myself onto one of the open days. I was even more impressed once my wife and I had attended – we left with huge grins on our faces and were eager to get started.

What was the standard of training like?

I began my training with a business mentor – an established franchisee – which was extremely useful. The team at head office have provided me with emotional support, technical support and marketing advice, which made the transition from employment to self-employment very easy. They know what you need to be doing in order to get the phone ringing.

How has business been so far?

I’ve been fortunate enough to be very busy; it’s always been a steady increase in work. It’s hard work but you don’t mind putting the effort in, as, at the end of the day, you’re the one reaping the rewards.

No regrets about the move into franchising, then?

The positive feedback and remarks that you receive from customers are really rewarding and make the job worthwhile. I get a huge amount of repeat and referral business. Many of my customers are now not just customers, but they have also become good friends. I just wish I’d done it sooner!