Member Article

Elliott reopens oven valeting business Ovenu Solihull in response to customer demand

Elliott Robinson, who runs oven valeting business Ovenu Solihull, has returned to is work in response to customer demand – and has already received a number of bookings this month.

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.

So far Elliott has received more than 10 new enquiries, along with current customers rebooking appointments cancelled back in March.

Having introduced a range of procedures to ensure he can re-open his business safely and responsibly, he 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.

Elliott, who took over the franchise in 2007, said: “I, along with many other tradespeople across the West Midlands, 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. 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!”

During the downtime, he busied himself by updating his company’s web page to improve the client booking experience.

Rik Hellewell, founder and managing director of the Ovenu franchise, said: “Elliott 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 Solihull, Elliott, also covers Olton, Dickens Heath, Shirley, Dorridge, Hillfields, Tidbury Green, Chelmsley Wood, Elmdon, Meriden, Balsall Common

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