The UK Franchise Directory

0800 Handyman is a franchise that provides seasoned DIYers who possess the ambition of being their own boss with exactly the opportunity they've been looking for.

We're already well established in the London area, where we are the leading player with an acknowledged reputation for service excellence. We started trading in 2001. Now, with a highly experienced franchise management team, 0800 Handyman is expanding, creating exciting and rewarding business ownership opportunities based on a winning service formula.

About the service

0800 Handyman is effectively equipped to handle the many small repairs and maintenance tasks that home and business owners regularly need to have carried out. Repairing dripping taps, assembling furniture, fitting curtain rails, changing light bulbs are the type of routine tasks that we deal with. They are jobs that home and business owners don't have the time or inclination to do, and often are of no interest to specialist contractors.

The work is varied, being of a non-specialist nature. We operate on a 'Fit 4 U' basis, which means that usually we will only fit items or parts that the customer already has. In metropolitan areas the service is provided using motor scooters/bikes. These are able to carry all of the general tools that are needed and importantly ensure productivity isn't compromised by traffic congestion and parking problems. Outside metropolitan areas a van is used (franchise owners in metropolitan areas may choose either a van or scooter, but a scooter is recommended).

The business model is simple; deliver first class service to build a base of regular customers. Our philosophy is to never compromise on quality, and this is reflected in the structure of the franchise. We are creating a trusted and respected brand and the contribution that franchise owners make towards this aim will help them to build a successful business.

The Market Opportunity

We operate in a fragmented market. Handymen are established in all communities, but service standards are inconsistent and lethargic. 0800 Handyman is professionalizing the market, applying a dynamic approach to customer service and the certainty of good job at a sensible price. Basically, 0800 Handyman is capitalizing on the growing demand for services with recognized standards

The handyman market comprises all property owners, so it's potential is substantial! There are however key sectors that we target in which demand is particularly strong - senior citizens, professional couples, women living alone, home movers, letting agents, companies with less than 25 staff. Our marketing programme includes promotions tailored to these markets.

About the Opportunity

As a 0800 Handyman franchise owner you'll run your own business, with our support to help you shape it for success. The benefits are huge:

• work from home, and achieve a better work:life balance
• enjoy a varied working day, being out and about, not tied to an office
• enjoy the immense satisfaction of delivering a service that leaves customers impressed and delighted
• be using your practical skills that will have been perfected by our technical and business training programme, which lasts for up to 5 weeks. On-gong training is also provided
• have the option of using a motor scooter/bike in metropolitan areas to maximize productivity
• be part of a network of business owners that share ideas and experiences
• receive intensive local and national marketing support to drive customer enquiries - directory and web advertising, direct mail, PR, leafleting campaigns
• be supported by our Call Centre, which will handle customer enquiries and book jobs into your work schedule
• use a bespoke software package that will help towards ensuring the efficiency of your business
• benefit from preferential buying arrangements that we've negotiated
• be continually guided by an experienced support team, who will help you make the right business decisions
• be building an asset that may be sold at a premium in the future
• be using a dynamic corporate image and trademark that command attention
• be on your own, but not alone

0800 Handyman offers a well-proven system that, if followed, has the potential to provide an exciting, satisfying and rewarding business ownership opportunity. We are currently seeking applications for franchises in the Greater London area, but we also invite those interested in other areas to contact us.

Is it For You?

Building on the businesses successful track record, 0800 Handyman is now in the process of making its service available as a franchise opportunity. We are quite clear about the attributes that will be required; drive, determination and energy combined with good practical skills and a commercial attitude. Our franchise owners may be seasoned DIYers who are motivated by the prospect of using their practical expertise to carve out a new future as a business owner. But, even those with limited practical experience are encouraged to apply - we have a comprehensive technical training course that will enable novices to develop the required level of competence.

Above all, attitude is key. If you possess the right character, enjoy being with people and empathise with our values then you may well meet our selection criteria. Providing you can demonstrate you have the integrity that's necessary to become a trusted ambassador of 0800 Handyman we will want you as a franchise partner.

Finance

Franchise fee = £14,950 plus vat. Includes initial training, business launch programme, signwriting of van/scooter, initial stationery pack.

Tool & equipment package = £2,550 plus vat. Includes initial set of tools, downpayment for scooter (add £500 for a van based business) and purchase of PDA and accounts program.

Additional charges will be incurred for telephone and broadband connection, motor cycle training and review of the franchise agreement by a lawyer. Working capital will also be required.

Typically 70% of the initial investment for a 0800 Handyman franchise can be obtained from one of the major banks.