Becoming my own boss has given me a lot of freedom

In his fourth year as an Ecocleen franchise owner, 30-year old Paul Tiltman is on target for a £400,000 turnover. 'I really enjoy every aspect of running my own business,' reveals Paul, 'from liaising with customers to selling and negotiating contracts and planning. Becoming my own boss has given me a lot of freedom - I work hours to suit my lifestyle from the comfort of my own home and earn a good salary so I am still able to go out clubbing with my friends at the weekend.'

Before Ecocleen Paul worked in retail management. 'I liked the idea of running my own business and being in control,' reflects Paul. 'However, at the time I was only 25 and had no experience of running a business. Investing in a franchise made sense as I would have access to support, training and a proven business model, which would help me find my feet and help me up the ladder.

'The commercial cleaning sector appealed because it is relatively recession-proof and Ecocleen does not require you to have any previous experience of working in the sector. An advert for environmentally friendly commercial cleaning franchise Ecocleen caught my eye in The Franchise Magazine. I liked the business model and could see myself operating a business as part of the Ecocleen network. When I met the head office team in person, I was impressed with their openness and so decided to purchase the Kent territory.'

Established in 1993, Ecocleen is a management franchise with a group turnover in excess of £35 million. As part of the franchise package every franchise owner is placed on an initial two-week training course - which includes one week at Ecocleen's training facility where prospective franchise owners are taught everything required to run their franchise including the basics of cleaning to sales and marketing. The second week involves on the job training. All franchise owners are given a laptop and SAGE accounts software to use. 'Obtaining the finance was difficult,' remembers Paul. 'However, I sold my car and a few other items to raise the money. I have a fantastic relationship with Ecocleen - the head office team has never let me down. If I have any problems, I know I can just phone them for advice.'

Ecocleen chases invoices and debts for franchise owners leaving them free to focus on building up their businesses. The company also organises an annual franchise owner conference where all of the franchise owners are able to get together and share ideas. 'Since I took the plunge and became my own boss, my confidence has grown enormously. My long term plan for my Ecocleen franchise is to continue building up the business as there is plenty of untapped territory within Kent!'

Interview by Jess Sturman