Ovenu Wirral South has marked 20 years in business after surpassing £1m in sales, underlining the sustained growth of the oven-cleaning franchise.
Since launching the business in 2006, owner Simon Kirkby estimates that he has personally restored the sparkle to more than 10,500 ovens, building a loyal customer base that continues to drive repeat business across the area.
The business, which has operated as a two-person team since 2014, reached the £1m sales milestone last year, reflecting sustained growth and strong demand for its specialist cleaning services.
Looking to build on that success, Simon recruited technician Colin Gilbert in 2024 and is now aiming to put a third van on the road to support continued expansion.
Customer loyalty has been central to the company’s growth, with Simon estimating that up to 90% of his own work comes from repeat customers.
“I think clients trust the Ovenu name, and they know we deliver a premium service. When people come back year after year, it shows you’re doing something right.”
That reputation is reflected in more than 2,500 positive online reviews, with the vast majority awarding the business a five-star rating.
Despite spending 20 years tackling one of the household chores many people prefer to avoid, Simon says he still enjoys the work.
“People laugh when I say I enjoy cleaning ovens, but I genuinely do. There’s real satisfaction in bringing a dirty oven back to life and seeing customers’ reactions never gets old!”
Ovenu Wirral South serves customers across Ellesmere Port, Bromborough, Heswall, Neston, Bebington and surrounding areas.
Before launching the business, Simon followed a varied career path. He began as a trainee bank manager before moving into positions with British Aerospace and later the print industry, where he spent 17 years working as an account manager.
However, a long-held ambition to become his own boss ultimately prompted him to make the move into franchising.
Looking back on his decision, Simon says he wishes he had done it sooner.
“It took me a while to take the leap, but once I did, I realised I should have done it years earlier. Being part of a franchise gave me support and structure while still giving me the independence of running my own business.
“It’s been rewarding both personally and professionally, and I’m excited about the future.”
Rik Hellewell, founder and managing director of the Ovenu franchise, praised Simon’s achievements and commitment to customer service.
“Reaching 20 years in business is a tremendous achievement and Simon should be incredibly proud. He’s built a highly successful venture through hard work, consistency and outstanding service.”
Ovenu’s specialist cleaning process involves dismantling key oven components, including doors, panels, fans and shelves, before cleaning them in design-registered tank equipment using safe, non-caustic and biodegradable products. The service restores ovens to near-showroom condition and also covers hobs, extractor hoods, microwaves and range cookers.
