Member Article

Drew re-opens oven valeting business Ovenu Taunton in response to customer demand

Drew Bennett, who runs oven valeting business Ovenu Taunton, has returned to work after receiving increasing numbers of customer enquiries over the past few weeks.

His decision follows an Ovenu poll that found almost half the public would invite tradespeople into their homes if measures were in place to reduce any possible spread of coronavirus.

Drew is accepting bookings at his discretion, with the strict stipulation that both parties observe the two-metre social distancing rule, along with guidelines on hygiene and cleanliness. PPE may also be worn.

In addition, with payment only being accepted electronically, it is possible to complete the whole process with minimal or zero customer contact.

He said: “I, along with many other tradespeople across Somerset, temporarily mothballed my business when lockdown was imposed - a very difficult thing to do when it is your livelihood.

“Since then, I’ve been preparing to re-open at the appropriate time with the correct measures in place. It feels great to get back to work but my priority is to keep myself and my customers safe.

“Given how much time people have spent cooking and baking during this lockdown period, I would imagine there is quite a bit of work for me to do!”

Rik Hellewell, founder and managing director of the Ovenu franchise, said: “Drew has taken a very responsible approach to reopening his business and has clear guidelines in place.

“I hope this provides reassurance to his customers and allows him to preserve the future of his business and make a contribution to the local economy.”

The poll, involving a sample of 2,110 people, was conducted by independent market research group DEG for Ovenu at the beginning of May. It found that 46 per cent of respondents would consider allowing tradespeople into their home to carry out work.

As well as Taunton, Drew also covers Minehead, Chard, Wellington, Tiverton and Cullompton.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by News Gathering .