This has attracted prospective investors to franchise and business opportunities within the sector, including Canopies UK, which manufactures canopy protection systems and door canopies.

The company, based in Darwen, Lancashire, offers a range of self supporting canopies that can be used for a variety of purposes, including sheltering for a car and creating extra space for outdoor gatherings and occasions that might otherwise be spoiled by bad weather.

Sales have been strong, with turnover up by 15 per cent on the previous year, and recruitment ongoing for new people to take on a Canopies UK business and help expand the network nationwide.

Commercial sales manager Matthew Eastwood said: “Ideal candidates range from husband and wife teams to small and medium-sized conservatory firms, who have been very successful at taking on our product and trading within an exclusive area.”

People often spend large sums on their driveway or front garden to improve their home’s external appearance, only for it to be let down by an old or unsightly garage door. However, these can now be transformed by restoration techniques, without having to be replaced.

Garage Door Restore has developed a glass-reinforced plastic (GRP) garage door skin that can be attached to an existing garage door, saving customers money and requiring no annual maintenance.

Demand has been growing along with product awareness, and the company is looking to recruit more people to provide the service.

Business development director Damian Webb said: “Our appointed agents have joined us from many different walks of life, from former IT consultants and senior managers to experienced trades people, attracted to a business opportunity with an innovative, unique, and environmentally friendly product.” 

Recent investment in product development has allowed the company to offer customers a bespoke door complete with fitting kit with next day delivery.

“Our agents can now benefit from a reduction in installation time of around 30 per cent, while ongoing product research and development is allowing us to penetrate the international marketplace,” added Mr Webb.

Information

Canopies UK 01254 777002 www.canopiesuk.com

Garage Door Restore 0845 602 7192 www.garagedoorrestore.co.uk