Time to take up opportunities
February 1st 2009

Mike Egerton, MD Host von Schrader, explains why 2009 could be a year of opportunity for those wanting a change of direction

These are challenging times and with the 'R'word constantly being bandied about in newspapers and on the TV, the cleaning industry like so many others faces a difficult year ahead.

However, unlike many industries we are relatively lucky in that both businesses and consumers need to keep commercial premises and homes clean, not only to ensure a better working and living environment but also, in the case of carpets, to protect and prolong the life of one of their most expensive assets – think of the cost of replacing carpet in hotels, large office blocks – even your sitting rooms.

There are real opportunities out there and over the past few months we have been seeing an increasing number of enquiries from people from all walks of life wanting or needing a change of direction.With the Host and von Schrader ranges, backed by our training programme and readily available help,many people are now establishing their own successful business in carpet and upholstery cleaning.

The Host von Schrader Business Opportunities Programme has helped many people change careers and start a carpet and upholstery cleaning business. It is evident that running your own business now appeals to many people.Apart from being your own boss the business can be run from home, and the opportunity can be full time or part time.This enables work to fit around changing lifestyles.

We believe the market for carpet and upholstery cleaning market continues to grow, even in difficult times.The potential is huge, covering all residential and commercial premises.Carpet still covers more than 60% of all floors and almost every home will have a threepiece suite. Cleaning and maintaining these fabric structures keeps up standards and gives the right impression.Many commercial operations are very concerned about the image they portray and often, there is real focus on cleanliness backed by legislation.And, of course, householders want to have clean carpet and upholstery.There is also a growing awareness that cleaning and maintaining carpet and upholstery will prolong its life.

We believe Host's systems are different to the other systems currently available on the market in the way they work. Firstly, 90% of all soil in carpets is dry – vacuuming is the only way to remove this soil and so our system has a built powerful vacuum.The Host and von Schrader systems are designed to use the minimum of water and chemicals.We don't want to use chemicals where they are not necessary. It's wasteful and not good environmental practice and because we use the minimum amount of water our carpet cleaning system will leave most carpets dry seconds after you finish.

We also have proven credentials, including Green Seal Approval and Woolsafe Approval.We also have independent research that shows how we make a great contribution to improving Indoor Air Quality through the removal of dust mites, dust mite allergen, pollen and mould.

After an initial training period, which includes both handling of the equipment and how to charge accordingly, earnings of £30,000 a year should be attainable for most start-ups.Other help available includes: Lifetime advice and training whilst you are a customer, free of charge Induction and machine training, free of charge Advanced training, (usually this is free but we do charge for the specialist Woolsafe training) The Arrangement of lease finance, if required Access to our range of marketing and sales aids Free technical back-up and after sales advice and a fixed cost annual servicing.

Host believes that this business opportunity offers a real chance to change direction, become your own boss and have a flexible and challenging working lifestyle. For more information and an informal discussion call the number below.Mike Egerton and his team will also be at the 2009 Cleaning Show, where they will be able to demonstrate the Host and von Schrader equipment. Stand H42

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