It is a sector that has enjoyed significant growth in recent years, as homeowners decide to spend more money on improving their gardens and extending their homes into their garden area.
Business opportunities in this sector range from lawn and garden maintenance to conservatories and canopies. Many are mobile or van-based opportunities with low overheads and scope for expansion to multi vehicle operations. Others are run as a management franchise, where teams of staff are employed to carry out the work.
Franchisees with TruGreen, part of the ServiceMaster Group, say that working outdoors is one of the major benefits of their job, with opportunities to work in some stunning gardens and get closer to nature.
While an interest in gardening and horticulture is often the starting point for prospective franchisees, it is not essential as the company provides comprehensive and ongoing training to ensure that franchisees can deliver their services to the highest possible standards. All tools, equipment, and products are also included in the franchise package.
There is no need to worry about the seasonal impacts on business, as TruGreen franchisees can offer their customers all year round lawn and garden service, preventing any lull in business, even during the winter months.
Darwen-based Canopies UK insists that the current interest in home and garden improvements is also keeping their distributors busy throughout the year. Founded in 1990, Canopies UK is a leading manufacturer of canopy protection systems that can be used in many different ways throughout the seasons. 
Managing director Elaine Morris said: “When it is very hot, a patio canopy provides shade from the sun, and when it is wet, you have shelter from the rain; which means that you can plan summer parties, or gettogethers, whatever the weather.”
Canopies UK are currently looking to recruit distributors for exclusive areas throughout the UK. Ideal candidates are people with a background in home improvements, good people skills, and the commitment and enthusiasm to make the business successful.
Ms Morris added: “A lot of our distributors take on a Canopies UK business to complement an existing business, and they have been extremely successful. We provide all the sales and product training that you need, all you need is the determination to see it through the early stages and turn it into a thriving business.” 

Information
TruGreen 0116 275 9000 www.trugreen.co.uk 
Canopies UK 01254 777002 www.canopiesuk.com