The Franchise Magazine has announced that TruGreen Company’s Karen Burdett is on a short list to win an Encouraging Women Into Franchising (EWIF) award in the New Woman Franchisee of the Year category.
With a franchise in the United Kingdom that covers Milton Keynes and West Northamptonshire, Burdett launched her business one year ago after working in a commercial environment for more than 20 years because she wanted an investment that would offer a career change and a sensible return on her investment.
“If I could find the opportunity in something I had an interest in, then that would be a bonus,” she said. “My passion is the outdoors and I eventually decided on lawn care. I thoroughly researched four lawn care brands but it was TruGreen’s business model and professionalism that stood out, even during my first discussions with representatives.”
When she learned that Steve Welch, a highly respected figure in the turf and sporting industry, was TruGreen’s Network Manager and would provide support, “That’s what really swung it for me,” Burdett said.
As TruGreen’s only female franchise owner/operator in the area, she showed grit, determination and a genuine desire to get started, the company said.
“Karen is a breath of fresh air within our male-dominated TruGreen network and the other franchise owners also agree,” Welch said. “Her success in just 11 months has spurred her neighboring franchise owners on, so keen are they not to let a girl beat them at their own game.”
According to the company, after just a few weeks in business, Burdett reported fantastic figures with an inquiry-to-quote conversion rate of 99 percent. Of the work quoted, 96 percent became customers. Now that she is in her second year of business, Burdett says she already is receiving referrals from her clients, further proof of the excellent customer service she offers.
“I’m delighted to have reached the finals of these awards, especially after such a short time as a business owner,” Burdett said. “TruGreen has ambitious growth plans and is looking for like-minded, driven franchise owners who want to succeed as part of a professional network.”
The EWIF award winners will be announced some time in May.
