Unique Business Ideas You Might Not Have Thought Of
Becky Martin, writer
Published at 13/04/2019, Updated on 04/05/2022 , Reading time: 5 min
Originally posted on 17/11/2017. Updated on 13/04/2019.
If you’ve always dreamed of starting your own business and being your own boss, there are so many different industries out there - each with their own pros and cons - which can make choosing the right one a daunting feeling. But if you do plenty of research and ensure that you are making an informed decision, then it’s an exciting opportunity for you to reach your potential and turn your ambitions into a way of making money.
Starting a franchise with a well-established brand name might be easier initially in comparison to the independent start-up option. According to research carried out by the British Franchise Association and NatWest, in 2018 there were nearly 50,000 franchise businesses operating in the UK, contributing over £17 billion and 710,000 jobs to the economy. Therefore, with franchising offering so much to the UK, and with the potential to run a lucrative business, why not give it a go? Take a look below at some unique franchise ideas you might not have thought of.
Unique Franchise Ideas
Ableworld
Ableworld opened their first franchise in 2008 and this was the beginning of its journey to becoming the UK’s largest retailer of mobility and homecare equipment. Ableworld set out on its expansion mission after realising that there was a demand for its products within a rapidly growing market that was underserviced by retailers.
There are 34 stores across the UK, with half of these adopting the franchise model. The predicted population of over-60s is set to reach 20 million by 2030. Selling products in a market with an aging population has made sure that the brand has ample potential for future growth.
Ableworld has also been careful not to deter potential franchisees with a high initial investment cost. At just £29,950, Ableworld’s franchise fee is one of the lowest in the industry. Instead of profiting on the initial fee, the franchise has focused on providing franchisees with an affordable initial investment so they can get off to a great start. Interested applicants will need £80,000 in total.
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Signs Express
One sort of franchise that you perhaps wouldn’t think of straight away is starting a signage franchise. Signs Express is the largest signage franchise in the UK and Ireland. The brand has been established for nearly 30 years and there are over 65 centres, each offering quality products and outstanding customer service.
The company claims that its franchisees can benefit from an earning potential 47 percent higher that the average signage business. Those who are keen to join Signs Express don’t necessarily need to have any experience in the industry but need to be motivated and dedicated to the success and expansion of the brand.
Training in all areas of the business will be provided and franchisees will have access to a dedicated marketing support scheme that assists with publicity and brand awareness. In order to invest, a minimum investment of £40,000 and a total investment of £115,000 is required, as well as a franchise fee of £20,000.
Tubz Brands
Another unique franchise is Tubz Brands; the number one tower vending franchise in the UK and Europe, with over 300 franchisees. The brand is looking for potential franchisees to join the brand and become instrumental in its national and international expansion.
The company operates a very flexible franchise model, as you can run the business on a full or part-time basis, and it requires such little storage space that it can be run from home. As there are no business rates to be paid on your sites, which also have 24/7 operating capabilities, franchisees should soon see profits from their investment. If the location of your vending tower declines in popularity, you can move it somewhere else. It’s as simple as that.
The franchise package consists of a two-year guarantee on equipment, a dedicated customer manager, a specified number of vending towers, site locations, branded product stickers, marketing, training package, ongoing support and 24/7 engineer support.
In order to invest you will need just £2,995.
Angela’s Swim School
This franchise offers swimming lessons to people of all ages and abilities. There is a large range of classes to suit all requirements, whether its for professional or leisure purposes. The swim school encourages anyone with a passion for swimming to get involved, with it offering lessons for disabled children and adults.
The company boasts that profits can grow by up to more than 300 percent in the space of three months. This is not only great in terms of cash flow, but it also means a large number of people can benefit from the lessons.
The benefits of investing in Angela’s Swim School include securing an exclusive territory with a pool contract, a five-year renewable license, financial support and flexible working hours. Having some control over your working hours allows you to have a better work-life balance and should help improve your overall happiness.
The BFA-accredited brand is looking for franchisees with who have a love of swimming and is dedicated to seeing others achieve their goals. It is also important to have an interest in working with children, being able to follow the business model and brilliant customer service.
In order to invest you will need £22,000.
Techclean
This franchise is a leader in the office hygiene sector. Techclean provides specialised cleaning services for computer data rooms, communication centres and workplace desktops. Founded in 1983, the company’s current clients are big brands like Disney, EDF and Porsche.
With more and more companies starting to value the cleanliness and hygiene of offices, there is scope for companies dedicated to providing these services to see profits quickly.
Franchisees will have access to a marketing launch programme, essential cleaning supplies, website, finance software and much more.
The ideal franchisee is someone with a strong work ethic who has people skills and is business-minded.
Interested franchisees will need a total of £19,500 to invest but the initial investment is £7,500.
Becky Martin, writer