StumpBusters

About StumpBusters

StumpBusters specialises in the removal of tree stumps using a range of modern machinery that minimises disturbance to the ground immediately surrounding the stump.

The machines used by the company can tackle stumps up to 14 feet in diameter, grinding them into a mulch, which is left on site for the customer to use as they wish.

StumpBusters opened for business in 1994 in the Thames Valley, south east England. It services both the domestic and commercial markets through its network of 33 franchisees, who cover 40 territories, making it the only company of its kind that operates UK-wide.

The company’s managing director is Darren Taylor, who became a StumpBusters franchisee in 2006, eventually managing four territories. This experience gives him a valuable insight into what it takes to make this business a success.

StumpBusters prides itself on being an organisation that aims to minimise its impact on the environment. It complies with environmental legislation, codes of practice and guidance from regulatory bodies that’s applicable to its business.

It also attempts to incorporate environmental best practice into all areas of the business, prevent environmental pollution, minimise waste that needs to be deposited in landfill and keep fuel usage to a minimum.

StumpBusters is a full member of the British Franchise Association.

The brand is part of Taylor Made Franchising, which also owns the Wilkins Chimney Sweep and PVC Vendo franchises.

How does the StumpBusters franchise model work?

This is a predominantly van-based franchise opportunity that requires franchisees to be hands-on in the business, at least until they become established. It can be run on a part-time or full-time basis (between three or five days a week, depending on the time of year).

Trading territories are exclusive to each individual franchisee and the opportunity requires no staff or commercial premises, just a secure storage area to keep the equipment that’s needed to run the business.

As StumpBusters’ method of removing tree stumps is mechanised, no hard manual work is necessary. Franchisees are required to take part in regular sales and marketing activities to establish and build their businesses. Customers are attracted by StumpBusters’ local and national marketing campaigns, while leads from the franchisor’s website are distributed to the franchisee network.

The service complements the work undertaken by tree surgeons and contractors working in the landscaping and construction sectors, resulting in referrals coming from these sources.

While in the start-up stages of the business, franchisees are required to remove tree stumps themselves, although they can invest in more machinery, which will require taking on operatives to work in their territories. They can also take on additional franchise territories once their original businesses are established.

What skills do you need to become a StumpBusters franchisee?

Like many franchises, no previous experience of the sector is required to become a StumpBusters franchisees.

However, candidates must be self motivated, enthusiastic, have good organisational skills, be commercially aware, enjoy working outdoors and have the ability to follow a system of working that has been tried and tested throughout the UK.

Why is the StumpBusters franchise a good investment?

Franchisees joining the StumpBusters network become part of a nationally recognised brand, which would not be the case if they were setting up their own independent businesses. They also benefit from a proven method of working and a comprehensive packaging of training and support provided by the franchisor.

As the ongoing costs of running a StumpBusters franchise are relatively low, profits can be high, with the company stating that experienced franchisees can earn up to £600 a day.

Did you know?

StumpBusters has an expected revenue of £45,000 after 2 years!

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In addition, the customer base is wide, as the company works for both commercial and domestic clients.

As StumpBusters is a mature franchise network (some of its franchisees have been with the company for nearly 20 years), it has a number of franchises that have been up and running for some time for sale.

Called franchise resales, these businesses give investors an income from day one, as they have an already established customer base.

What locations or territories is StumpBusters looking to operate in?

StumpBusters has franchise opportunities available in the following areas:

• England - North West, East Kent, Shropshire, Berks, Bucks and Oxon.

• Scotland - Glasgow North, Edinburgh, North Scotland.

• Ireland - Northern Ireland and Connacht, Leinster and Munster.                             

Where in the UK is the StumpBusters franchise based?

StumpBusters’ headquarters are in Semley, Wiltshire.

What training and support do StumpBusters franchisees receive?

Initial training lasts for approximately one week. Conducted on a one-to-one basis, it teaches franchisees about operations/administration, machinery use and maintenance, health and safety and sales and marketing.

StumpBusters staff based at the company’s head office support franchisees with national marketing, sales advice, equipment sales and machine spares. The franchisor can loan spare machines to franchisees if for some reason theirs need to be repaired.

Also included in the franchise package is a specialist stump grinding machine, a fully functioning website, a telephone answering service, an 0800 freephone number and an operations manual.

To promote networking among franchisees and the sharing of best practice, StumpBusters organises regular regional and national meetings.

What are the StumpBusters franchise’s terms of agreement and renewal?

The licence to trade using the StumpBusters brand and know-how lasts for an initial five-year period, which is renewable.

What is the earnings potential of a StumpBusters franchise?

StumpBusters states franchisees can earn around £350 per day and potentially up to £600.

It also provides the following financial information as an illustration of the opportunity’s earnings potential, based on the company’s pilot franchise:

• Year 1. Turnover: £37,000. Net profit: £28,000.
• Year 2. Turnover: £45,000. Net profit: £33,000.
• Year 3. Turnover: £60,000. Net profit: £45,000.

How much does a StumpBusters franchise cost?

The StumpBusters franchise package has a total cost of £29,000 (plus VAT). This figure includes the ownership of the specialist machinery. Franchisees are also required to pay an annual fee of £3,600 to the franchisor. This kicks in after month three of trading.

Banks are willing to part finance the start-up cost of a StumpBusters franchise, subject to status.

How can I get started on setting up my own StumpBusters business?

The StumpBusters franchisee recruitment process puts you under no obligation to make a financial commitment to the franchise.

After an informal chat, prospective franchisees are provided with a franchise information pack, which is followed by a meeting with the franchisor, where all aspects of the business and your suitability to join the network will be discussed.

StumpBusters assists franchisees with their research into the business and the sector in which it operates, compiling a business plan and making an application for finance if required.

Once the above has been completed, training commences and franchisees are ready to begin trading.

To find out more or to request further information on franchising with StumpBusters, complete the enquiry form on this page.