After 25 years in the corporate world, David Christian decided it was time for a change and followed his dream of launching his own business. 

Two months on - and with help from Business Gateway in East Renfrewshire – Europe’s first Mr Handyman franchise (www.mrhandymanservices.co.uk), is racing along with customers from across Renfrewshrie and Glasgow signing up for David’s range of domestic and small business maintenance and repair services. 

“The reaction to the service has been great,” says David.   “I had been thinking about the franchise option for a while and after doing some research I came to the conclusion that the US based Mr Handyman franchise was a fantastic proposition and would fill a gap in the market for an organisation that could provide day to day maintenance services.”

Kitted out in smart uniforms The Mr Handyman Service Technicians not only make a
great first impression but with a minimum of 15 years experience behind them, this impression is backed up with a range of top quality skills.

A Disclosure Scotland check on all employees means that safety is a top priority whilst David’s guaranteed arrival time and ability to carry out multiple tasks on each visit is proving a major draw for customers.

Although David was clear about how he wanted to develop the business he also understood that he needed some support to help him get the business off the ground.

“I think it’s important to have a second pair of eyes to look at your plans and Business Gateway has more than filled that role.   Not only did my adviser help me in the early stages but she has continued to provide invaluable support and advice on a range of issues.

“I also attended a Business Gateway health and safety workshop which was extremely helpful.”

Mr Handyman may only have been trading since April, but already David has his sights set on expansion and is looking to take on another five service technicians and an admin assistant over the coming months.

“If you are thinking about starting a business it is certainly worth considering the franchise option,” says Business Gateway Adviser, Jen Smith.  “David did the right thing by researching the opportunity thoroughly and seeking some specialist advice from Business Gateway which has helped his new venture make a very positive start.”