AN OVEN cleaning company has been recognised as a 'rising star' for being an 'outstanding' franchise in the UK.

Ovenu in Wokingham was founded by Rik Hellewell in 1994 and has since gone on to attract and recruit hundreds of successful franchisees throughout the country.

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The valeting specialists has been named as a 'Rising Star' in the UK's franchise sector by industry bible Elite Franchise.

As well as being awarded the accolade, Ovenu increased its standing in the publications Top 100 Franchises in 52nd place.

Rik said: “To improve on last year’s standing and be named a Rising Star of the industry is a real accomplishment and an acknowledgement of the many years of hard work that has gone into making this a leading brand with more than 100,000 satisfied customers every year.

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"There are more than 1,300 franchises operating in the UK, so to even make it into Elite Franchise’s Top 100 is a huge achievement, especially considering some of the household names we are up against."

A panel of expert judges recognised the Wokingham based company for providing customers a good service with support and outstanding knowledge.

Andrew Brattesani, HSBC head of UK franchising, described Ovenu and said: "What differentiates Ovenu from the many similar companies in the sector is the outstanding knowledge, help, support and practical guidance on offer to franchisees through every stage of their business development.