An Australian Franchisee Case Study
Ovenu franchisees, Richard and Melissa Ramsey purchased their franchise in 2008. Richard said, “We wanted to start our own business, but wanted to do something that was already tried and tested. We wanted to see real examples of how the business would run and have backup support from the franchisor where we needed it, as we had no prior experience with running our own business.”
Richard and Melissa were interested in oven cleaning and investigated an initial franchise system. They were not comfortable with the level of information given, or the income potential.
They then approached Ovenu. “We met with the Master Franchisors, Janet and Bernard Bannon, and the Queensland State Director, Toby Bowes and his wife Carolyn.
“The information given to us was very concise and it seemed there was good earning potential to be made. They showed us the financial information we wanted to see and we were given a very clear idea of how things worked,” said Richard.
“We knew what support we would be given and there was a low start-up cost. We also sensed a high level of professionalism from those we met.”
Richard said the support given by the franchisor was excellent. “Initial support was with setup and marketing in our local area. We had help from the Queensland franchisors in holding a business launch in our local shopping centre. We were given advice on how to get editorials with local publications. Our editorial and launch soon gave us six weeks of solid work!
“Support was provided very promptly over the phone and onsite training was given over a two week period. We had assistance with setting up the work vehicle. The franchisors always make themselves available to answer any questions we have and they promptly fill our orders for cleaning and marketing supplies,” Richard said.
The Ovenu franchise is a family business for Richard and Melissa. Melissa does the administration work while Richard focuses on the hands-on side of the business.
Sharing the duties involved allows the couple to run a successful business together.
According to Richard and Melissa, one of the great benefits of running the Ovenu franchise business is the flexibility they have. “We take holidays when we want, or take a day off to attend our children’s special events at school.”
Richard said, “I can be very flexible around the times that our customers request and I am working less hours than I was in a full-time job. I also get to spend quality time with my wife and two children – which was one of the main reasons for wanting to change careers.”
Richard and Melissa would like to bring a subcontractor in to share the increased service demand in their current business and hope to expand their franchise area as a further investment in their future.