Chris Reynolds, a former manager in the automotive supply chain, has launched oven valeting service Ovenu Rugeley – fulfilling a long-held ambition to run his own business.
The 50-year-old spent 27 years in the manufacturing sector, including 22 years with West Bromwich-based alloy wheel manufacturer Rimstock, where he progressed from Quality Control Inspector to Production Manager, and later Materials Planning and Logistics Manager. Following redundancy in 2023, he secured another job, but the experience sparked a career re-think.
Birmingham-born Chris, who has lived in the area for more than two decades, said: “My focus is on delivering a fantastic service that will quickly establish Ovenu Rugeley and build a loyal client base. Eventually, I want to grow the business to the point that I can take on another oven technician and expand into a neighbouring territory.
“I’ve always wanted to be my own boss, and Ovenu’s franchise model provides the perfect balance of independence and support. It’s a trusted brand with a proven formula, which gives me real confidence, and being van-based means I don’t have the added expense of premises.
“I’m a people person and having worked in both quality control and planning and logistics, I appreciate how important attention to detail is, skills that I believe will serve me well in my new venture.”
Rik Hellewell, founder and managing director of Ovenu, said: “Chris has a wealth of professional experience and the determination to succeed, and I’m delighted to welcome him to the Ovenu network. He has all the attributes needed to build a thriving business.”
Ovenu Rugeley covers the WS15 and ST17 postcodes. As well as the market town, it includes Abbots Bromley, Armitage, Brereton, Cannock Wood, Handsacre, Colton, Longdon, Mavesyn Ridware, Hill Ridware, Blithbury, Bednall, Brocton, Milford, Walton-on-the-Hill, Weeping Cross, and surrounding areas.
The Ovenu process involves dismantling key oven components – such as doors, panels, fans and shelves – and cleaning them in design-registered tank equipment using safe, non-caustic and biodegradable products. The service leaves ovens in near showroom condition, and also covers hobs, extractor hoods, microwaves and range cookers.