This is your opportunity to invest in an established Countrywide Signs franchise territory in North Devon, which has huge potential for growth; with over 255K properties inside the territory there the capacity to support a two to three van business.
The existing franchisee, in the Cornwall area, is looking to consolidate his territory which is why he is selling the North Devon part. Based in Southern Cornwall he has developed a multi van territory there over the last 10 years supplying, installing and managing estate agent signage within the territory. He will also be on hand to assist the new person coming in, not only during the early stages of business growth, but also, in the long term, to build a partnership across the area.
The North Devon territory encompasses all EX postcodes:
- Exeter (EX1–EX6)
- Dawlish & Exmouth (EX7–EX9)
- East Devon including Sidmouth, Honiton and Seaton (EX10–EX14)
- Mid Devon including Cullompton, Tiverton and Crediton (EX15–EX19)
- West Devon including Okehampton and Holsworthy (EX20–EX22)
- North Devon including Barnstaple, Bideford, Braunton, Ilfracombe and South Molton (EX31–EX39)
- Northern Cornwall around Bude (EX23)
The main client base is currently centered in Exeter and turns over £10,500 annually. In addition to this is the National Account work is another £4k per year. Total of £14,500 annual sales.
Countrywide Signs was established in 1998, and now has a strong nationwide presence, supporting independent, regional and national agents with reliable, professional board management services. The brand won the Continuous Improvement Award at The Best Franchise Awards 2026
Why is the North Devon Territory is Attractive?
- Access to several thousand property transactions each year.
- A significant private rental and holiday-let market.
- Large numbers of independent estate agents alongside national chains.
- Commercial signage opportunities in Exeter, Barnstaple, Tiverton and Exmouth.
- Affluent coastal markets such as Salcombe-adjacent North Devon villages, Croyde, Woolacombe and Instow.
- A broad spread of market towns that can generate recurring sign management income.
The territory benefits from a diverse property economy:
- Exeter provides the largest concentration of estate agents and commercial property activity.
- North Devon delivers strong lifestyle, second-home and holiday-let demand.
- East Devon benefits from affluent retirement and coastal markets.
- Mid and West Devon offer lower competition and extensive geographical coverage.
The Countrywide Signs - North Devon franchise also offers the incoming franchisee exclusive coverage across a large geographic area, with strong relationships with independent agents in the area. There is also less intensive competition than major urban centres which has opportunities in both residential and commercial signage.
There are also the lifestyle benefits associated with operating in one of the UK's most desirable coastal regions.
As this is a working franchise territory you will inherit:
- Existing customers
- Established estate agency relationships
- Immediate turnover
- Ongoing recurring work
- Local reputation and operational infrastructure
Your Investment & Financial Potential
The franchise offers one of the most accessible entry points into the property sector:
- The cost of this territory is £30,995, and covers the Franchise Fee of £24,995, plus the inherent brand reputation, customer loyalty (goodwill) (Funding available (up to 70% subject to status)
- Low working capital requirements
- No premises costs
Your Investment includes:
- Exclusive five-year trading license
- Existing Customer database
- Online board management system including driver app.
- Operations manual on line
- Training: Theory, Practical, Marketing, Health and safety, accounts
- Loan application support
- Corporate clothing
- First year’s public liability insurance
- Specialist fixing pack
- Vinyl cutter
- Corporate van graphics
- Specialist tools and equipment
- Specialist starter slip pack
- Automated online invoicing
- Head office credit control and accounts support
- Stationary pack
- Bespoke website page and social media platforms with ongoing support
- Marketing materials
- VAT registration and 1st quarter VAT return
- Data protection registration
As this is a van-based operation, you will also need a van. However, you do not need to source or design it independently from scratch. Countrywide Signs provides full support, and the professional vehicle graphics (livery).
Financial performance is a key attraction:
- Typical single-van sales: £5,000–£6,000 per month
- Profit margins: approximately 55–65%
- Multi-van potential: £250,000+ annual turnover
With recurring work from estate agents and the ability to scale, the model is designed to deliver strong ROI and long-term business value.
Countrywide Signs is looking for motivated, practical individuals who are:
- Self-driven and organised
- Comfortable working outdoors and independently
- Keen to build relationships with local businesses
- Ambitious to grow a scalable enterprise
No prior experience in signage or property is required—just a willingness to follow a proven system and deliver excellent service.
