Giles Layton, who launched oven cleaning service Ovenu Eastleigh amid the uncertainty that followed the Covid pandemic, has renewed his franchise agreement having seen his business go from strength to strength.
He began trading in the first week of August 2021, days after the final lockdown restrictions were lifted, when Covid precautions – including wearing a face covering in clients’ homes – were still part of daily life.
Five years on, the business has grown year on year, attracting new clients alongside a loyal base of repeat customers, with Giles’s diary already almost fully booked for the busy Christmas period.
The 53-year-old, from West End, said: “I’ve been really pleased with how the past five years have gone. When I started, we were just coming out of the Covid restrictions, and you never quite knew how things might work out.
“The fact I’m now almost fully booked for Christmas is a good reflection of just how far the business has come.”
Having previously worked as a car delivery driver, Giles was looking for a fresh challenge and a better work-life balance when he decided to become his own boss.
Ovenu Eastleigh serves the SO18, SO30, and SO50 postcodes, including Eastleigh, Chandler’s Ford, Colden Common, Fair Oak, Horton Heath, Harefield, Midanbury, West End and surrounding areas.
“I’ve loved the flexibility of working for myself,” added the rugby fan, who spends much of his spare time with his family. “The effort you put in is helping to build your own business, so you benefit directly from your own hard work.
“It’s also really enjoyable to meet so many different people and to build relationships with clients. It’s particularly satisfying when they ask you back or recommend you to someone else.
“I’ve also had the backing and ongoing support of Ovenu, so renewing my franchise agreement was an easy decision.”
Rik Hellewell, founder and managing director of the Ovenu franchise said: “Giles has worked hard to establish Ovenu Eastleigh, and five years on, he has a strong base of loyal clients and continues to attract new business, which is testament to the quality service he provides.”