One of the UK’s leading pet franchise organisations, The Pets, Homes and Gardens Company, has just hit a whopping 30 franchisees. Recently taking on franchisees in Torbay, Haywards Heath, Lewes, Southampton and Thetford, the pet-sitting organisation is going from strength to strength.

One of the factors to achieving this, and which is appealing to people looking for a pet franchise, is the low cost entry level. To secure a territory costs just £995 + VAT * whereas other competitors charge between £6 and £10K for an area.

Peter Maxted, one of the directors of The Pets, Homes and Gardens Company, says: “We have found people put off by the huge upfront fee. We have taken out this cost and although it needs money for marketing in the first few months of operation, we feel that it is our job to help make the franchisees successful and in turn, the franchise becomes successful.  

“A percentage of turnover is also required as part of the franchisee fee rather than a fixed fee every month too, to help accommodate the eb and flow of any small business."

He continues: “We also don’t insist on a livered car or van to start with. Most franchisees use their existing vehicles as long as they are safe and roadworthy and can put metallic signs on to help promote the business when they are working. Many franchisees do tend to take on a purpose vehicle after several months anyway.”

Sarah Heal, of PHG Torbay, was made redundant earlier this year from a well-known brewery chain and decided to change career completely.

She says: “Becoming a PHG franchisee has been the best decision I have ever made. Having worked in the corporate world for many years, I have seen a vast improvement in my work life balance.

"I have the freedom to run my business the way I wish, with the reassurance that I can ask for help whenever I need it. Peter and Julie’s training and knowledge is second to none and has given me the confidence to set up the business I have always wanted and to make the step into self employment.”

Other franchisees have been with PHG for several years now, including Debbie Brownlow, who runs PHG Bolton. She says: “A big thank you to both you and Julie for all the support and encouragement you have given me. I consider myself to be so lucky looking after all the lovely animals in my care. Running PHG Bolton is the best job I have ever had.”

*plus £2K allowance for initial marketing costs.