Tom makes new career connection with launch of Ovenu Tilehurst
A former broadband engineer has launched oven valeting business Ovenu Tilehurst after a routine clean of his own cooker inspired an unexpected career change.
Having accepted redundancy from his office-based role, Tom Trethewey was searching for a business opportunity that would allow him to return to the face-to-face customer interaction he had enjoyed for much of his career.
The 39-year-old, who lives in Tilehurst, had spent more than 20 years installing broadband in customers’ homes before moving into a largely desk-based planning role.
He said:
“I’ve always found fulfilment in practical work, so moving to an office role made me realise just how much I missed being out and about and interacting with customers.
“I was offered redundancy and saw it as a chance to start my own business. I was looking for inspiration when I happened to clean my own oven at home, which was surprisingly satisfying. It got me thinking that I could do it professionally.
“Now I’m doing what I enjoy most - providing a service that makes a difference. It may be a completely different industry, but it’s still all about people.”
Having long harboured ambitions of running his own business, Tom was drawn to Ovenu’s franchise model due the extensive training, guidance and ongoing support.
“I’m not sure I’d have had the confidence to start from scratch,” he added. “A franchise gives you a proven business model to work from, which removes a lot of the uncertainty.”
Ovenu Tilehurst was established following the reorganisation of the Ovenu Reading territory, operated by Gareth Turner. The new territory reflects growing demand for Ovenu’s services and will allow franchisees to provide a more responsive service.
Tom, who is married and also has a cat called Maggie, added:
“My long-term goal is to grow the business to the point where I can employ another oven cleaning technician within the next five years.”
Ovenu Tilehurst covers the RG30 and RG31 postcodes, including Tilehurst, Southcote, Calcot, and Burghfield.
Rik Hellewell, founder and managing director of the Ovenu franchise, said:
“Tom’s combination of practical experience, customer service skills and entrepreneurial drive makes him an excellent addition to the network.
“Having spent many years working in customers’ homes, he understands the importance of professionalism, reliability and earning trust - qualities that are invaluable in our business.”
Ovenu’s specialist cleaning process involves dismantling key oven components and restoring them using safe, non-caustic and biodegradable products. The service also covers hobs, extractor hoods, microwaves and range cookers, leaving appliances in near-showroom condition.
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