If you’re thinking about starting your own business, you’ve probably wondered whether to go it alone or join a franchise. It’s one of the biggest decisions you’ll make, and it’ll shape everything about how your business operates and grows.
With 745,000 self-employed workers in the UK construction industry as of 2024 (making it the largest self-employed sector in the economy), you’re certainly not alone in considering independence. But before you make that leap, it’s worth understanding what each path really offers.
The Reality of Going Solo
The appeal of going solo is obvious. You keep all the profits, make your own decisions, and build something that’s entirely yours. No franchise fees eating into your earnings, no corporate rules about how to operate, no one telling you what to charge or which suppliers to use.
But here’s what the numbers reveal: around half of all non-franchised new businesses fail within five years. That’s not because these people aren’t skilled at their trades; it’s because running a business requires completely different skills than fixing boilers or installing kitchens.
Most tradespeople spend years perfecting their craft, then suddenly find themselves dealing with marketing, accounting, insurance, legal compliance, and customer service. Many discover they’re spending 20-30% of their time on paperwork rather than actual trade work.
The UK construction industry needs an additional 251,500 workers by 2028, so there’s definitely demand for skilled tradespeople.
The challenge isn’t finding work, it’s building a sustainable business around that work.
The Franchise Alternative
Joining a franchise means you’re buying into a proven business system. You get the brand, the processes, the training, and ongoing support in exchange for franchise fees and following their established methods.
Proven Business Model
The statistics here are compelling. According to the British Franchise Association, 93% of franchisees reported profitability, compared to only around 60% of independent businesses. Even more striking, only 0.9% of franchised start-ups end in commercial failure, compared to the 50% failure rate for independent businesses.
Immediate Brand Recognition
Instead of spending years building your reputation from scratch, you inherit an established brand that customers already trust. This is particularly valuable in the trades, where customers often feel anxious about letting unknown contractors into their homes.
Comprehensive Training and Support
Most franchises provide extensive training covering not just the technical aspects of the work, but also business management, customer service, pricing strategies, and marketing. This ongoing support continues long after you’ve opened your doors.
Marketing and Lead Generation
Rather than struggling to find customers, many franchises provide leads, handle national advertising, and give you proven marketing materials. This can be particularly valuable in the early stages when you’re trying to build a customer base.
Bulk Buying Power
Franchises often negotiate better rates with suppliers, equipment manufacturers, and service providers. This means lower costs for materials, insurance, and other business essentials.
| Aspect | Independent | Franchise |
| Failure Rate | 50% in 5 years | 0.5-0.9% |
| Profitability Rate | ~60% | 93% |
| Initial Setup Time | 6-18 months | 2-6 months |
| Marketing Support | DIY | Provided |
| Brand Recognition | Build from scratch | Immediate |
| Business Training | Self-taught | Comprehensive |
| Ongoing Support | None | Continuous |
| Territory Protection | None | Usually included |
Where Franchises Excel for Trades
Customer trust is huge in the trades industry. Homeowners worry about cowboy builders and poor workmanship, so they’re naturally cautious about unknown operators. A recognised franchise brand immediately provides credibility and peace of mind, something that can take years to build independently.
Franchises also handle the compliance headaches. The construction industry faces increasingly complex regulations around health and safety, waste disposal, and building standards. Rather than trying to keep up with all this yourself, franchises typically provide updated procedures and documentation.
Then there’s the marketing advantage. Instead of struggling to find customers, many franchises provide leads, handle advertising, and give you proven marketing materials. This is particularly valuable when you’re starting out and don’t have an established customer base.
Current Market Conditions Favour Franchises
Several factors in today’s market make franchising particularly attractive for tradespeople:
- Rising Costs Construction costs in the UK are predicted to rise by 3.8%, following a 4.1% increase in 2023. Franchises’ bulk buying power helps mitigate these cost pressures.
- Skills Shortage With 300,000 carpenters and joiners employed in the UK in 2024, and continued high demand, skilled tradespeople have excellent opportunities. Franchises help you capitalise on this demand more effectively.
- Regulatory Complexity The construction industry faces increasing regulatory requirements. The Building Safety Act and other legislation create compliance burdens that franchises are better equipped to handle than individual operators.
- Economic Uncertainty With economic challenges affecting the construction sector, the support and stability of a franchise system become even more valuable. Independent operators are more vulnerable to market downturns.
Different Franchise Models for Trades
Not all trade franchises are the same. Understanding the different models can help you choose the right approach:
Service-Based Franchises
These focus on providing specific services like plumbing, electrical work, or home improvements. Examples include drain cleaning, heating maintenance, or handyman services.
Product + Service Franchises
These combine selling products with installation services, such as fitted kitchens, bathrooms, or flooring. The product sales often provide additional profit margins.
Maintenance Franchises
These focus on ongoing maintenance contracts rather than one-off jobs, providing more predictable income streams. Examples include facilities management or property maintenance services.
Making the Right Choice for You
The decision ultimately depends on your personal circumstances, risk tolerance, and business goals:
Choose Independent If:
- You have significant business experience and marketing skills
- You want complete creative control over your operations
- You have sufficient capital to sustain yourself through the difficult early years
- You’re confident in your ability to handle all aspects of business management
- You want to keep 100% of profits long-term
Choose Franchise If:
- You want to focus on your trade skills rather than business management
- You prefer lower risk and a higher probability of success
- You value ongoing support and proven systems
- You want to start earning income more quickly
- You’re comfortable following established procedures
Ready to Explore Your Options?
If the franchise route sounds appealing, it’s worth exploring what opportunities are available in your trade and area. The combination of your trade skills with a proven business system could be the perfect formula for success.
More Than Loft Ladders Franchise offers an established business model in the growing home improvement sector. With proven systems, comprehensive training, and ongoing support, we provide everything you need to build a successful trade business while minimising the risks that come with going it alone.
