Provide an overview/ description of your industry. Include reasons why it’s a great industry to start a business in today.
The home improvement industry is over a $400 Billion dollar a year segment, and growing. With people now staying at home more than ever in the past, small projects, repairs and improvements are on their minds.
How has your industry changed in the last 10 years? 20 years?
The trends in home ownership and home improvement spending are compelling for our segment of the industry. The Do It Yourself (DIY) client is declining because the Baby Boomer generation who knows how to work on their homes is aging out of being able to actually get on a ladder and do the work. They are turning into Do It For Me (DIFM) clients out of basic need. On the other end of the homeowner generations, the Millennials have begun purchasing homes at a greater rate, and their basic value proposition of how to spend time does not include spending all weekend working on their homes.
What trends do you see in your industry over the next 5 years? Next 10 years?
There will be a trend of continuing to repair and improve what has become the "safest" place for people within this crazy Covid environment.
What is the biggest concern about your industry that a franchisee candidate should be aware of and investigate?
Some states require additional qualifications such as a General Contractor’s license to operate a handyman business. If you are in CA, NV, FL or SC you should be aware of these additional requirements.
Why do you think your company stands out in the industry?
Simple, our relationship with Ace Hardware is a game changer in the home improvement industry. While Home Depot and Lowes offers "installation services" they are through unrelated third party sub contractors, so there is no quality control. We are Ace.
What makes your franchise/ business opportunity more attractive than your competitors?
The name brand with the national marketing opportunities through the Ace Hardware relationship makes this compelling. We are able to advertise to Ace Reward Members both through email and marketing pieces, and we also advertise inside the local Ace Hardware stores where we have handyman coverage.
Describe the ideal candidate. Do you think your requirements are any different than your competitors?
Construction experience is not necessary. We are looking for solid business experience, strong leadership qualities, and someone who wants to make a difference in their community.
What’s the strongest skill you require in a candidate?
Leadership is the strongest skill we require. This is not management, you are not managing craftsmen. You are leading a team of talented professional.
Describe the working environment of your franchisees (indoors, home office, mobile, etc). Is your environment typical of other companies in your industry.
Ace Handyman Services requires a small office space (150-600 sq ft) to operate out of for your dedicated Office Manager who is answering the phones and for a place to meet regularly with your craftsmen employees.
Why has your company been successful?
Failure has never been a possibility for Andy Bell or the team he’s built around him. He had a vision way back in 1998 to be the best handyman in the world, and now with the Ace Hardware relationship, we are well on our way. Join us!
What advice would you give someone interested in buying a franchise in your industry?
Just like any other industry, we recommend people do their homework. Research, learn about the industry, the competition and then make the best decision for you and your family.
How much experience in this industry should a franchisee candidate have should they consider buying a franchise in your industry?
You do not need home improvement or construction experience at all. Business skills including leadership are much more important. You will hire craftsmen to do the work, you do not perform any of the trades yourself.