Dream Doors Limited

Company Overview

Dream Doors specialises in kitchen facelifts. This involves swapping the old doors and drawers with made-to-measure replacements, adding new worktops, a sink and taps. We also provide full kitchens, appliances, bedroom doors and innovative storage solutions.

A facelift is half the cost of a new kitchen, and takes as little as one day to install. With much less disruption in the home, Dream Doors has always appealed to an older demographic, with 90% of customers over the age of 50.

Franchise Overview

Dream Doors was established in 1999, opening its first showroom in 2001. The company retains its own outlet in Hampshire, while franchise showrooms stretch from the west country into Scotland.

As a mature brand, some resale opportunities arise, but with just over 40 showrooms now open, only a third of the UK is covered.

Franchise territories are determined through a mix of geography (postcodes) and demographics (homeowners aged 45+).

Key Information

• Network Size: 26-50 units
• Franchise Type: Management
• Typical Start-up Cost: £70,000
• Minimum Personal Investment: £30,000
• Franchise Location: Retail unit
• Market: B2C

To understand exactly what is, and what is not, included in this financial information, click here (opens in a new window).

Training

The induction course is one week and covers all aspects of the business, from marketing and sales through to product terminology and project management. There are no practical skills required, but training is given in kitchen surveying and measuring.

Franchisees and their staff attend regular business coaching courses. Field support is ongoing throughout the franchise, beginning with a weekly visit. There is no charge for the business coaching or support.

Daily Life of a Franchisee

There are two defined roles for a busy Dream Doors franchise: sales and management.

Many franchisees are couples; one partner will sell, visiting customers in their homes (mostly daytime appointments), while the other will manage the showroom and the administrative tasks.

For single owner-operators, either a salesperson or a showroom manager can be employed.

Sub-contracted kitchen fitters (or employed for more established franchises) look after the installations.