Award-winning design...with a winning franchise

With growing international recognition for its standard of workmanship and designs, David Reid Homes is expanding its franchise network in the UK. Stuart Anderson reports

With around 30 franchises operating in Australia since its launch there in 2004, David Reid Homes' profile in the country has been raised still higher with the announcement that its 'Baja' show home in Queensland won the award for 2007 National Display Home - Over Aus$500,000 in the 2007 National Building & Construction Awards. Presided over by Master Builders Australia Inc - the major Australian building and construction industry association - the award recognises the spectacular design and standard of workmanship of the company's latest show home (pictured), which is contributing to a reported 100 per cent success record throughout its international network of franchisees.

'After only three years in Australia, this prestigious national award is a major achievement for David Reid Homes, and re-affirms what we have achieved in New Zealand where we are already the most accredited home builder,' says company founder David Reid. 'The award proves that although founded in New Zealand, David Reid Homes has the capability to replicate our quality and high standards in new markets... and we're coming to the UK where you could be part of the success story.'

Founded in 1993 when David built his own dream home and then turned it into his first show home, the company enables customers to have a home designed and built to their specific requirements, completely managing the project from initial designs to the finishing touches such as interior decoration and landscaping. The company began franchising its unique business model in 2000 and expanded its operations to the Australian market in 2004. With a successful and substantial network established there, David Reid Homes began expansion in the UK and Ireland in 2006 and launched its first British franchise last year.

'David Reid Homes believes that operating through a franchise system is a good way of maintaining standards because every franchisee is running his or her own business and is, therefore, dedicated to the company's success,' reflects UK Master Franchisee Martin Pick. 'Franchisees project manage bespoke new builds on behalf of the individual homebuyer, ensuring the final product meets the highest quality standards and the tastes of the client. All franchisees are trained to our high standards and must be in tune with our philosophy, which is being passionate about providing a premium service.'

Adds David Reid: 'Our service is set to turn the new homes industry in the UK on its head. Given a choice, people don't want to have an identical home to every other home in the neighbourhood. Our service offers discerning clients a chance to have the home of their dreams designed and built to suit their own individual tastes, lifestyle and budget.'

The first David Reid Homes UK franchisee has launched his business and with a second preparing to sign, the home building franchise is quickly building momentum. 'Duncan McEwan, our first UK franchisee, brings with him many years of experience in the IT industry where client relationships are all important,' reveals UK Territory Director David Marsden. 'As a property investor himself, he already has a very good understanding of the market and coming out of corporate life is now determined to build a successful business in the industry. We are delighted to welcome Duncan onboard and will be fully supporting him to ensure the success of his business.'

David Reid Homes is aiming to set up around 50 franchises in the UK and individuals interested in getting involved would need around £150,000 to set up - this figure includes an allowance of £50,000 for working capital. 'We are not looking for people with building skills,' explains Martin. 'The most important attributes we look for in potential franchisees is the ability to manage a business and its cash flow, as well as a good understanding of the importance of customer relationship management, a passion for property and a strong desire to build a long term profitable business that will have a significant value in its own right.'