“I would never go back to an employed job”

Former social worker Vikki Ingram now runs her own thriving Sparkle Cleaning franchise

Sparkle Cleaning delivers efficient and thorough commercial cleaning across the professional services, industrial space, hospitality and education sectors.

The business says it’s unique because it’s more than just a group of people who are cleaning - it’s a family who mix fun with professionalism and always support each other to offer the best possible service to customers and franchisees.

We spoke to Vikki Ingram about making the transition from employee to Sparkle Cleaning franchisee:

Tell us about yourself

I worked as a social worker and in social work management for the past seven years in total. I got stuck in the ‘rat race’ of working hard, burning out, then taking annual leave. That was my life.

I’d got to the point where the pressure of the job was making me resent it. When I became pregnant, I knew something had to change. I wanted a better work-life balance and a career I loved. I started my Sparkle Cleaning business while on maternity leave with my six-month-old baby.

What was it like during the early stages of being a franchisee?

At first, I had serious reservations about starting the franchise. The company wasn’t as established as other cleaning franchise options I could have considered. I had much self-doubt about whether I could do ‘business’, as I had worked in the corporate world and in a steady income job for a number of years.

How do you feel now?

Looking back, I can see I made the right decision. I’ve got more control over my life, I’m earning a great income, I can give my family more time and Gareth Sanders, the owner of Sparkle Cleaning, has inspired me to keep growing the business.

How did you find out about Sparkle Cleaning?

I knew Gareth had Sparkle Cleaning for a few years and I trusted him. I’d watched him grow the business, so I had witnessed his success.

What appealed to you about the business the most?

The amount of support and access to processes. The team has helped with implementing start-up processes, recruitment, onboarding and prospecting. My future plans are to continue to grow the business, so it can function without me.

What’s your advice to others looking to start a franchise?

Believe in yourself. I love it and would never go back to an employed job. Gareth has created a monster!

At a glance Sparkle Cleaning

Established:

2016

Number of franchised outlets:

6

Location of units:

Bristol, Bath, Newport, Swindon, Birmingham central and Birmingham north

Investment range:

£10,000

Minimum required capital:

£5,000

Contact:

01172 591456