An entrepreneur who swapped sweeping chimneys for cleaning ovens is celebrating a sparkling milestone – just two years after launching Ovenu Winchester, Barrie Neilon has already earned an impressive 217 maximum five-star client reviews.
The 42-year-old father-of-three, who lives on the outskirts of the cathedral city, launched the franchised business in 2023 and quickly built a reputation for quality and customer service now reflected on review platform Trustist.
Barrie said: “To receive more than 200 top-rated reviews within two years is something I’m extremely proud of. It’s a big vote of confidence in the service I provide and reassures me that the business is going in the right direction. I’m incredibly grateful to all those who took the time to share their feedback.”
His rapid success has been driven by a combination of high standards, personal recommendations, and the marketing support provided by the Ovenu franchise. As a result, he is now experiencing strong demand, with a rising number of repeat bookings and a full schedule several weeks in advance.
“I’m focused on continuing to grow the business,” he added. “Eventually, I’d like to take on an additional oven technician. That said, I won’t let these reviews go to my head – as a former chimney sweep, I’m determined to keep my feet firmly on the ground!
“I haven’t looked back since starting the business. The flexibility of being my own boss means I can now be there for school runs and sports days, things I used to miss. At the same time, I have the safety net of a trusted franchise behind me which means it never feels like you are going it alone.”
Rik Hellewell, founder and managing director of the Ovenu franchise, said: “Barrie’s success is a fine example of what can be achieved through a strong work ethic, diligence, and a proven business model.
“To reach over 200 maximum five-star reviews in such a short time is a remarkable achievement and speaks volumes about his professionalism and dedication.”
As well as the city, Ovenu Winchester covers the SO21, SO22, and SO23 postcodes, including Cheriton, Hursley, Owslebury, Sparsholt, and surrounding areas.
The Ovenu process involves dismantling key oven components and using safe, non-caustic, and biodegradable products to clean them, leaving ovens in near showroom condition. In addition to conventional ovens, it also covers hobs, extractor hoods, microwaves, together with range cookers and ovens.