Made to measure

Just Shutters has designed and installed a staggering 94,000 square metres of shutters in the UK

Chris Rocker founded Just Shutters in Dorset in 2006 with the aim of becoming the region’s top provider of beautiful plantation shutters.

Chris achieved this goal quickly and after a meeting with entrepreneur, philanthropist and author Duncan Bannatyne, decided that through franchising Just Shutters could become the national market leading specialist. Since then, the company has expanded to 19 successful franchises covering 175 towns and cities in the UK.

Not just another franchise

Just Shutters is not just another franchise. It values a can-do attitude and willingness to learn. In return, the company provides an industry leading training programme, a branded van, all the tools and samples required, expert in-house marketing support and guidance, ongoing business support, plus a marketing launch package worth £9,000.

It can also put potential franchisees in contact with third party financial assistance if necessary.

Andy Cox-Peel runs the Birmingham franchise and says of Just Shutters: “I receive excellent ongoing support from headquarters in terms of admin, lead generation, follow-up and appointment booking, loads of behind the scenes stuff that goes unnoticed that I’m grateful for.”

A solid reputation

Just Shutters only does plantation shutters - hence the name. The company prides itself not only on the quality of its products but on its expertise - every shutter is made to measure, designed to enhance the customer’s home and expertly fitted.

Just Shutters has built a reputation and brand affection you cannot buy. With five-star reviews, as well as a near perfect Checkatrade rating, Just Shutters is always the highest rated shutter company in the UK.

And despite its size, the company doesn’t do corporate or faceless - it’s human, approachable and dedicated to ensuring customers are thrilled with their new shutters.

Paul Wells, who runs the Yorkshire and Humberside franchise with his wife Lisa, says:

“The brand, system and support was really appealing and after meeting the head office team Lisa and I knew it was the right fit for us. There’s a real family feel, with understanding and support clear and evident.”

Every day is different

Every day is different because every customer is different. Franchisees make design visits to measure for installation and discuss the array of options open to the homeowner, including colours, louvre sizes and shutter styles, to create a visual wow for their home.

Franchisees then create the quote using Just Shutters’ systems and deal with any follow-up questions. Then they install the shutters, ensuring customer satisfaction. Time must also be set aside for office paperwork and marketing activities.

Hours are flexible and can fit around family responsibilities; most franchisees work a five-day, Monday-to-Friday week, with occasional evening and weekend work if required.

Paul is delighted with his new work-life balance: “I never saw my family before, now I spend every weekend with them and do some morning school runs and some school pick-ups.”

At a glance Just Shutters

Established: 2006
Number of franchised outlets: 19
Location of outlets: England and Wales
Investment range: £27,000
Minimum capital required: £27,000.
Contact: Simon Osterloh. simon.osterloh@justshutters.co.uk. 01202 233744 shutter-franchise.co.uk