Q&A: Does PestForce Franchise in the UK?

Alice Tuffery, writer

Published at 19/01/2018, Updated on 04/05/2022 , Reading time: 5 min

Q&A: Does PestForce Franchise in the UK? — Photo © pestforce-franchise-information.jpg

Pest control businesses offer a vital service and there’s money to be made by starting your own company in the sector. But if you don’t want to go it alone and set up your own operation from scratch, it’s worth considering franchise opportunities. Here, we’re asking: Does PestForce franchise?

PestForce is one of Britain’s leading pest control firms, with more than 100 vans supporting customers up and down the UK. But can you invest in the company and start your own PestForce franchise unit? Let’s find out.

Does PestForce franchise?

Yes, PestForce uses franchise partners to set up new branches across the UK and expand into new territories.

If you choose to join the PestForce franchise network, you’re likely to see a consistent level of high demand, no matter the state of the economy. Unfortunately, rats and other unwanted guests will always cause trouble, but franchises like PestForce can help customers get rid of unwelcome creatures.

PestForce offers a relatively low-cost investment opportunity with the prospect of earning an impressive income, as well as achieving impressive growth potential. The franchise only authorises one branch per town, so you can rest assured you’ll be the go-to PestForce representative in your area.

History of PestForce

PestForce was formed in 2014 by entrepreneurs Paul Smith and Sean Taylor. It operates under its parent company, The Forces Group, and prides itself on its high-quality, 24-hour pest control services.

In 2017, Sean won Entrepreneurs Circle’s National Entrepreneur of the Year award, which recognised his hard work.

Today, there are PestForce franchise units in more than 50 locations across the UK. The business has also earned a 5-star reputation across thousands of customer reviews.

In my first three months, my turnover has been over £20,000, which is higher than I could have ever anticipated. —Gary O’Connor, PestForce North London franchisee

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Starting your own PestForce franchise unit

PestForce is looking for energetic, hardworking and self-motivated investors who have a real determination to succeed. You don’t need to have a background in pest control to be approved as a franchisee, as you’ll be taught everything you need to know in the franchise’s training scheme.

Thanks to PestForce’s recognisable brand identity and high level of professionalism, investors have an immediate advantage over their competitors in the industry.

Plus, the head office seeks out big opportunities and regularly wins national contracts to keep franchisees busy. Rather than focus on residential call-outs on a case-by-case basis, you’ll have the chance to take a share of the franchise’s larger projects.

When your business is up and running, you’ll also be able to choose the hours you work. You can even go part-time to fit your job around other commitments.

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Becoming a PestForce franchisee:

To start your own PestForce franchise unit, you’ll need to be comfortable handling rodents and other creatures. From time to time, you may also need to enter unpleasant environments, so this investment opportunity may not be right for you if you’re squeamish.

You should also enjoy working outdoors and have a driving licence. To be successful in your application, you will need to be committed to developing a profitable business and delivering excellent customer service.

To find out more about PestForce’s franchise opportunity, you can book your place on one of the business’s discovery days.

How much you need to invest:

PestForce offers a relatively low-cost franchise opportunity. To launch a business unit, you should be prepared to part with around £16,500 plus VAT, plus working capital to cover expenses until you break even.

Once your business is up and running, you’ll pay the franchisor a regular fixed fee, and after two years, you can expect to see a turnover of roughly £40,000.

What you get for your investment:

PestForce provides a comprehensive induction programme, complete with three weeks of high-quality training. Your learning journey will follow the RSPH Level 2 syllabus and include a visit to a rodent farm. Both classroom-based and on-site sessions will give you the chance to develop a rounded knowledge of the franchise’s operations.

Within a year of starting your training programme, you’ll have the opportunity to gain the RSPH Level 2 qualification and apply for BPCA membership. These official accreditations should help you gain more customers and develop a reputation for excellence.

As a franchisee, you’ll also benefit from a starter pack worth £2,000. It includes support building up your website and social media channels, as well as managing Google Adwords. You’ll even be given branded stationery and uniform. Plus, all investors are given an initial batch of stock and materials on day one so they can get started right away.

But the franchisee support doesn’t end when you finish your initial training period. Once you’re up and running, you’ll have access to online health and safety documents with all the latest information.

You’ll also be able to use PestForce’s operation management system, which takes your calls and books appointments to help you run your business more efficiently. And the PestForce head office is always ready to help with online and telephony based support and advice on everything from sales and marketing to technical issues.

The training was intense but it needs to be. I particularly enjoyed the Firearms course and I’ve learnt so much already. There’s been a lot of help and support, really good training and I feel ready to crack on. — Ryan Burton, PestForce South Nottingham franchisee

Running your own business

If you like the sound of starting a franchise business in the personal and home care services sector, PestForce could be the company for you. But if its model doesn’t quite suit your ambitions or lifestyle, you might be interested in looking at some alternative investment options.

Browse the personal services franchises currently looking for new franchisees in the UK for more investment inspiration. Or use the search box to find other relevant business guides and boost your franchising knowledge.