When Paul and Karen Fox made the move from South Africa’s famously picturesque Garden Route to the UK, they sought a new home that combined similar natural beauty with a robust business opportunity. That’s why they chose to focus their search in Devon and Cornwall. “We knew the weather wouldn’t be as good but we wanted to be near the coast and have as similar a lifestyle as possible,” confirms South Hams-based Paul.
Initially the couple weren’t looking for a franchise, having been used to running independent businesses in South Africa, but the chance to take on Minster Cleaning’s Devon and Cornwall branch caused a rethink. “At first we were unsure about a franchise,” says Paul, “but after an in-depth conversation with Minster Cleaning’s Managing Director, Mike Parker, we could see this was a great opportunity. He suggested we talk to some of the franchisees. They were all very inspiring, high-calibre people – it was clearly an organisation we wanted to be part of.”
Under its previous owner, the franchise performed consistently through a variety of economic ups and downs. The recession-resistant nature of commercial cleaning is one reason Paul and Karen had the confidence to invest. “We are so fortunate to have bought into a Minster Cleaning franchise,” Paul adds. “The Network Support Centre holds your hand and gives you as much support as you require. And we required a lot! They made sure we were up and running with all the right accreditations and methodologies as well as supporting us with day-to-day questions and challenges. They really are phenomenal, as well as essential.”
Paul and Karen’s experience as owners of three health clubs and a health spa in Cape Town stood them in good stead. “Our previous businesses were also in the service industry. This business is built on the same principles, just with a different service.”
In terms of turnover, the Devon and Cornwall franchise is one of Minster Cleaning’s smallest, which Paul sees as an exciting opportunity. “We want to push on up that table. Because we’re in a large rural territory we’re focusing our attention on hubs such as Plymouth and Exeter, and on increasing the average value of our customer contracts.”
So far it’s paying off, with 25 new contracts added in their first year – an increase Paul is keen to accelerate. “The business model is so robust and scalable, the potential is almost unlimited. Of course there have been challenges, but 2024 is turning out to be a great year.”
If you’re interested in developing a low-risk business, backed by a respected brand and enjoying unrivalled support, new and existing franchise opportunities can be found on the website.
For new territories, the initial start-up cost is £20,000 plus vat, which covers licence fee, territory, IT equipment and training, plus a comprehensive marketing launch package. In addition, a minimum of £35,000 working capital plus personal drawings is required.