Shuttercraft is taking franchising to the next level
Occasionally there are times when products or services seem to come of age and suddenly enjoy significant market uplift as consumers catch on. Much like a musical ‘overnight sensation’, Shuttercraft has been successfully refining its products and systems for years, but is now rocketing up the charts.
Sean Goldsmith, the company’s franchise manager, says: “We have invested heavily to improve on an already great franchise. The positive financial position of the company allowed us the time to develop next generation systems that will give our franchisees every advantage in the market.”
Shuttercraft’s management model allows franchisees to build a successful business in a market that is still in its infancy. As you are not physically installing shutters, you can focus on sales, customer service and the general management of your business.
Add to this the hands-on business coaching support and a bespoke business software programme and Shuttercraft franchisees enjoy a level of support and nurturing that puts it among the best in the franchise industry.
The market for interior window shutters has exploded over the last five years and, as a company, Shuttercraft has seen consistent year on year growth of over 30 per cent per annum. This is being driven by growing consumer demand due to the increased awareness of wooden shutters and desire for a clean, modern alternative to traditional window coverings.
Kirstin Monk, Shuttercraft’s marketing manager, says: “The demand for shutters is effectively going viral and we have invested heavily in all elements of our brand in order to maintain our leadership in the market.”
Because of the popularity of the product, Shuttercraft’s franchisees consult rather than ‘sell’.
“Our customers are intelligent and savvy and have done a ton of research prior to seeing our franchisee,” Sean says. “This means we can provide value to our client by giving them sound advice on which product would best suit the window.”
There is no doubt plantation shutters have a powerful ‘wow’ effect on customers, as well as their friends and family. This is evidenced by the fact Shuttercraft franchisees enjoy a high level of repeat and referral business, which helps keep marketing costs lower than other industries.
Shuttercraft is a master partner of S:CRAFT and only sells its window coverings as they’re the best in their field for both craftsmanship and engineering. S:CRAFT shutters and blinds, installed with care by a Shuttercraft specialist, are from sustainable plantations and a manufacturing facility dedicated to reducing their carbon footprint.
Shuttercraft franchisees have come from a variety of backgrounds, but this management opportunity is suited to individuals who want to rapidly grow a business with revenues in excess of £500,000. Given its ambitious targets, Shuttercraft’s approach to business is calm, relaxed and confident.
“The consumer experience is at the heart of everything we do,” Sean says. “We offer a ‘no hard sell’ promise to our consumers, which means our franchisees are in a position where they can take a natural, consultative approach to selling.”
By combining a high quality product with motivated franchisees and a nationally trusted brand, Shuttercraft is set to make big waves in the industry.