Success in Sheffield: Aspray announces its Franchisee of the Year 2025

Winner Steve Robinson overcame the challenges of the Covid pandemic to build a thriving business that continues to grow

Aspray has marked its 20th anniversary in style with a conference at the stunning Gran Hotel Miramar in Málaga, Spain, where franchisees from across the UK came together for an unforgettable event. The highlight of the evening was the announcement of Steve Robinson of Aspray Sheffield as the winner of Aspray Franchisee of the Year 2025.

Steve launched his Aspray franchise five years ago, building it from a standing start with no customer base into a thriving, profitable operation. He opened for business just one week before the UK went into its first Covid-19 lockdown, in March 2020.

With the country shutting down and uncertainty at an all-time high, many new businesses struggled to survive. But Steve refused to let the circumstances define his future. Instead, he adapted quickly, built trusted relationships remotely and focused on delivering support to customers when they needed it most.

His business now turns over more than £800,000 a year, placing Aspray Sheffield among the top-performing franchises in the network. This award recognises his outstanding growth, resilient leadership and dedication to delivering exceptional customer service.

“To win Aspray Franchisee of the Year was an amazing feeling to be honest,” Steve commented. “It was so unexpected, when we were sat around the table, and when the three nominations came up and my picture was up there, it was unbelievable. When Hayley and Kim announced the winner, I was just completely surprised. To get the main award was a fantastic feeling.”

When asked what it takes to achieve the same level of success and win Franchisee of the Year, Steve keeps his advice simple but powerful. For him, the foundation of a successful business begins with one priority above all else: putting the customer first.

He believes strong results are built on a combination of commitment, teamwork and discipline. Surrounding himself with skilled, reliable people has been vital to the growth of Aspray Sheffield: “You can’t build a business alone. Having a great team around you who share your values makes all the difference.”

Steve also emphasises the importance of communication and reliability. Keeping customers informed at every stage and delivering on promises are key principles in his approach. “Be professional, be honest and always keep your customers updated. That builds trust, and trust builds your business.”

Above all, Steve credits the proven Aspray business model as a major part of his success. “Follow the model. It works,” he commented. “If you put in the time, effort and dedication, the results will come.”

A vision for future growth

With strong momentum behind him, Steve is confident about what lies ahead. With his second territory now secured, he has his sights firmly set on continued expansion and long-term business development.

Looking ahead, his focus is on scaling sustainably while maintaining exceptional customer service, the foundation of his success to date. Steve plans to grow his team further to increase capacity across South Yorkshire, ensuring that every customer continues to receive the personal attention and professional expertise that Aspray is known for.

He is also committed to strengthening relationships with introducers, including insurance brokers, property professionals and local businesses. By building a wider network of referral partners, Steve aims to increase brand visibility and expand the reach of Aspray Sheffield even further.