care franchise Home Instead Senior Care is dealing with a surge of new franchise owners and increasing enquiries for its franchise opportunities. The company, which reported an £18 million turnover across the UK and Ireland in 2008 is forecasting this figure to reach £30 million this year, specialises in the non-medical care of older people.

The company is currently in the process of launching nine new franchise owners across the country, enquiry levels are up by 200 per cent year on year and hits on its website have trebled.

'There is no doubt that interest levels in franchise businesses increase during a recession,' said Managing Director Trevor Brocklebank. 'Many people face redundancy but walk away with a lump sum, giving them the option to explore business opportunities they would otherwise not have considered, and for many, setting up their own business is a dream come true.

'I also think that during difficult times people take a step back from what they are doing and re-evaluate their work-life balance, and also their own impact on society. It is a common thread with all our franchise owners that they want to give something back. Not only is there a huge demand for care as a result of an ageing population, but there is simply not enough resource in the current health system to deliver the care required.'

Published: 1 May 2009

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