When Warrington-based entrepreneur Andy Phillips decided it was time to take control of his career, having spent more than 12 years as an estate agent, he made sure he didn’t start from scratch and started smart. Rather than building a business from the ground up, he opted to invest in a franchise resale, taking over the reins of an Ovenu territory in Warrington.
For Andy, the decision was about more than just brand recognition or buying into a proven system. It was about combining flexibility with security and stepping into a business model that was already driving results.
And he’s not looking back.
“In the Warrington area, the Ovenu brand is head and shoulders ahead by way of 5-star reviews on both Google and Trustist platforms,” says Andy. “The Ovenu branding has just been applied to my van – and it looks really sharp!”
The advantage of an established brand
For many prospective franchisees, brand awareness is a critical factor. In Andy’s case, acquiring a resale meant taking over a territory with a built-in reputation and established trust among local clients stretching back over many years.
There was no need to build credibility from zero. Warrington residents are already well aware of the Ovenu name and what it stands for. This, Andy says, has given him a head start in building his customer base.
Proven systems equals instant traction
A major draw of the Ovenu franchise resale was his ability to plug into a tried-and-tested business model. With tools like an enterprise-class CRM system, a comprehensive operations manual, and effective marketing frameworks, he was able to hit the ground running.
“My induction training week flew by,” he explains. “There’s a lot to remember, but everything is backed up in a comprehensive operations manual that I can access at any time. Plus, I inherited all the client data from the previous franchisee – so I have real insight into where my bookings come from.”
Support That Feels Personal
For Andy, who was new to the oven cleaning sector, support was non-negotiable. Ovenu’s ongoing training and guidance, delivered by its experienced Head Office team and peer franchisees, meant he never felt like he was on his own.
“It’s great to be part of a network that embraces technology and keeps us ahead of the game. I’ve met everyone at Head Office, and the community of franchisees is always there to share advice. It’s very reassuring.”
Inheriting Local Knowledge
Buying a resale has also given him access to valuable market intelligence. Unlike a brand-new territory, this one came with history, customer insights, media performance data, and pre-built awareness.
“Our CRM has reporting tools that show exactly where each client originated, who’s a repeat customer, and so much more. It’s all rolled into our management fee, so there’s no extras, just business clarity.”
Flexibility with Structure
What makes franchising such an appealing model is the balance it offers between support and autonomy. For Andy, that balance has been a game changer.
“Flexibility in my new venture is priceless. I have personal commitments early in the week, so being able to shift my schedule and work Saturdays if I choose to is ideal. And I don’t need permission to take time off – it’s my business.”
Lower Risk, Faster ROI
The biggest draw of a franchise resale? Momentum. Andy didn’t just buy a brand, he bought a business with bookings.
“I asked Head Office to handle client calls for a few weeks before I started, and they were happy to. I booked my first job during my training week, and by Thursday I had nearly £3,000 in advanced bookings. At this pace, I might be putting a second van on the road sooner than expected!”
Strength in Numbers
As part of the Ovenu network, Andy enjoys something many solo entrepreneurs lack: a community. Whether it’s a technical query or a marketing idea, he’s never more than a message away from support.
“Having someone to lean on – via phone, WhatsApp, video call or email – is what franchising is all about. You’re in business for yourself, but you’re never by yourself.”
Franchise Resale: A Smart Route In
For would-be business owners exploring franchising, Andy’s story is a compelling case study. Investing in a resale offered the structure of a franchise, the reputation of a trusted brand, and the ready-made opportunity of an existing customer base.
With his sights already set on growth, Andy’s journey proves that franchising, especially through a resale, can be a smart, low-risk route into business ownership.
“It’s the best of both worlds. I’ve got the freedom of being my own boss, with the backing of a system that works. It’s been a brilliant decision.”