Entrepreneur Chris Charnley has launched his own oven cleaning business after calling time on a 37-year career in sales.
The 58-year-old has established Ovenu Preston North, serving homes across the PR2 postcode, after deciding the time was right to fulfil a long-held ambition to be his own boss. The county pool player, who represents Lancashire at eight-ball pool, previously spent 37 years with a Bamber Bridge-based aluminium stockist before making the move into self-employment.
Chris, who lives with his partner in Preston, said: “Becoming my own boss was an ambition I’ve had for several years, but I’d just reached a point where it was now or never – and in many ways, I wish I’d done it much earlier. “My priority is to deliver an outstanding service so people use me again and recommend me to others. I’d like to think I can grow the business to the point where I can bring another oven technician on board.”
He researched a variety of business opportunities before deciding an established franchise offered much greater security than starting on his own from scratch.
Chris added: “Ovenu provides the reassurance of an established brand and business model while giving me the independence of working for myself. I’ve spent most of my working life dealing with people, and I’ve always enjoyed that side of the job. Hopefully, that experience will help me build up a loyal customer base.”
Rik Hellewell, founder and managing director of the Ovenu franchise, said: “Chris has given a lot of thought to becoming his own boss and is approaching this new chapter with plenty of experience and enthusiasm. “A franchise provides a proven blueprint for building a successful business, but it still requires hard work and determination. Chris has both in abundance and I’m confident he’ll be a real success.”
Ovenu Preston North covers the PR2 postcode, which includes Ashton-on-Ribble, Brookfield, Cadley, Fulwood, Grimsargh, Haighton, Ingol, Larches, Lea, Ribbleton, Riversway, Sharoe Green, Tanterton, and surrounding areas.
The Ovenu process involves dismantling key oven components and cleaning them in design-registered tank equipment using safe, non-caustic and biodegradable products.
