Former builder Andy Neal has taken over the oven valeting franchise Ovenu Southampton from its previous owner, Terry Nash.

Neal will now manage and direct the operations of the business that serves customers throughout the West of Southampton and the New Forest areas.


He takes on the franchise after nine years working within the building trade in London. After hearing that former franchise owner Terry Nash was looking to retire, Neal asked for first refusal on the business as he was looking for a new challenge.

As an Ovenu franchise owner Neal will provide an environmentally friendly oven valeting service for his customers. The valeting service involves dismantling key components of an oven and placing them into design-registered equipment, which uses non-caustic products to clean the oven parts.

The whole process takes around three hours and leaves the oven, hob and exterior in immaculate condition. Neal said: “After spending many years working within the building trade in London, I wanted a change and began to look for opportunities for local work in my area. I knew Terry through friends and heard that he was looking to retire so took the opportunity to ask him for first refusal on the business. I’m used to visiting people’s houses as a builder and enjoy being mu own boss so I’m looking forward to the challenge.

“The business is well established and has great potential. I hope to expand the customer area within the next six months.”

Rik Hellewell, Managing Director of Ovenu, said: “Andy is a hardworking man and it’s great to have him join our team. His sound business knowledge can be transferred across to running a franchise.


“Franchising is about starting a new business with the support, back up and advice of a large network behind you. Our franchise network continues to thrive. Andy’s experience will set him in good stead for developing a strong and successful business.”

Published: 9 December 2011

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