Q&A: Does Shuttercraft Franchise in the UK?
Alice Tuffery, writer
Published at 20/01/2018, Updated on 04/05/2022 , Reading time: 5 min
If you’ve thought about joining the home improvements industry, you may have considered starting a window coverings business. You could sell curtains, blinds or shutters, or a combination of the three. Here, we’re asking the question: does Shuttercraft franchise?
Shuttercraft is the UK’s biggest distributor of interior plantation shutters. The company specialises in made-to-measure shutters and blinds, selling an exclusive range of high-quality products. It’s been up and running since 2002 and now has branches across the UK.
Does Shuttercraft franchise?
Yes, Shuttercraft franchise opportunities are highly regarded by entrepreneurs. In fact, Shuttercraft delivers such an impressive service, up to 60 percent of its franchisees’ leads come from customer referrals.
History of Shuttercraft
After a decade of success in the window coverings industry, the team behind the thriving Shuttercraft brand decided to implement the franchise model in 2012 to aid its future growth. Since then, the business has placed more than 20,000 separate orders worth a total of over £10 million.
Shuttercraft is proud of its considered approach to customer service. Its employees are on hand to discuss projects and never use “pushy sales tactics” or pressurise potential clients. What’s more, the franchise only works with premium S:CRAFT shutters, one of the most respected brands in the industry, and offers a wide range of different colours, frames and hinges. When Shuttercraft team members visit customers, they bring samples along with them to help people visualise the end result in their home.
Despite economic uncertainty, the shutter market is growing and proving itself to be a secure investment opportunity. The rise in sales has been enormous in the past few years and can be attributed to the power of the ‘wow factor’. Thanks to Shuttercraft’s high level of referral rates, franchisees can be confident their investment will pay off.
Starting a Shuttercraft franchise unit
Shuttercraft is on the lookout for savvy entrepreneurs who are keen to launch a successful business, develop a team of skilled workers and deliver excellent customer service. Its network of existing franchisees have come from a variety of different business backgrounds, so don’t be put off applying for a partnership agreement if you don’t have industry experience.
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Becoming a Shuttercraft franchisee:
If you choose to invest in the Shuttercraft franchise model, you’ll take on the role of managing and developing your business unit. When you become a franchisee, you effectively represent the Shuttercraft brand in your area and should always embody the values of the whole franchise network. You’ll be responsible for marketing, providing customer quotes and managing a team of installation professionals.
To operate a successful management franchise unit through Shuttercraft, you should focus on building a robust and sustainable business through lead generation. Ideally, you should have some sales and management experience, but this isn’t strictly a requirement. The franchisor will provide a comprehensive training package, so you’ll be able to develop your industry know-how before you start welcoming customers through your doors.
To be a successful Shuttercraft franchisee and deliver the business’s trademark customer service, you’ll need to have excellent communication and interpersonal skills. You should also be prepared to work hard and follow the franchise model to the letter. Being fully committed to the Shuttercraft brand will help you build a successful business with the backing of an experienced and knowledgeable franchise team behind you.
How much you need to invest:
The cost of opening a franchise unit with Shuttercraft is £27,495 plus VAT. You will also need a good level of working capital as well. After two years, you can expect to generate a revenue of roughly £100,000.
However, your earning potential will depend on the amount of effort you put in and the work you complete. If you’re ambitious and have a great work ethic, you may be able to break even in your first six months and earn £30,000 to £40,000 in your first year.
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What you get for your investment:
Once you’ve invested in the Shuttercraft brand, you’ll be allocated an exclusive territory with enough homes to provide plenty of income. When establishing geographic regions, the franchise team uses demographic information based on real customer profiles, so you can be sure you’ll have good revenue potential.
Your franchise fee also covers a wide range of other benefits, including use of the Shuttercraft trademark for five years, an operating manual and promotional materials. All franchisees are given tools, uniforms, mobile devices and access to handy software. And, of course, you’ll have the chance to take part in Shuttercraft’s comprehensive training scheme.
The initial induction package covers everything a Shuttercraft franchisee would need to know, including information on the business’s set-up, technical training, admin support and help with marketing.
The franchise even gives every investor a local mentor in the form of an existing franchise partner. They’ll work alongside you and offer guidance as you launch your business unit. You’ll also get a business advisor, who will help you understand, evaluate and develop your franchise unit.
With such a high level of support on hand, you’ll always have someone to turn to if you’ve got a question or concern.
Join the home improvement industry today
If you dream of running your own business and helping people create their perfect homes, an interior decorating franchise could be for you. Take a closer look at the Shuttercraft franchise opportunity on its Point Franchise profile page, or browse our other window dressings franchises to see great alternatives.
To widen the net even further, why not explore our entire selection of home improvement franchises? We have a diverse range of business opportunities, covering everything from furniture repair to kitchen design, landscaping to renewable energy suppliers. You can sort the list by the popularity of each franchise or its investment costs.
Alice Tuffery, writer