Few businesses have grown as swiftly as Oltco. The company, which install resin bound driveways throughout the UK, recently celebrated the unveiling of its 50th franchisee. Bearing in mind that the company only launched its franchise scheme in 2019, this was quite an achievement.
Starting out in 2004, Oltco recycle waste plastic to create resin driveways, pathways and patios. And from their Cornwall-base of Newquay, they are now a successful national enterprise with 50 business partners across the UK and Channel Islands. Since becoming a franchisor in 2019, Oltco has grown quickly and are hoping to reach 100 franchisees by the end of 2025.
Co-director Johnny Pearce said: “Hitting the 50-franchise mark is something we are incredibly proud of. It shows how far we have come since starting out as two friends in Cornwall. We aren’t stopping here, as we look to continue our expansion across the UK and internationally.”
Johnny formed Oltco with friend Tom Stringer and the business has already enjoyed national recognition. In 2021, the company was named in the Elite Franchise Top 100 list, and also received the Sustainability Warrior gong at last year’s British Franchising Association Awards’ ceremony.
Nick Carnes, Oltco’s franchise director, added: “I have been in the franchise industry for eight years and I rarely witness growth like this. I’m incredibly proud to be a part of this amazing network and I cannot wait to see it continue to grow.”
The company developed the world’s first ‘Recycle Bound’ driveway, which utilises waste plastic that is already in circulation. This was designed to help combat the problem of plastic waste around the globe.
So far, across the UK and Channel Islands, this project has recycled the equivalent of over 200 million plastic straws. Thanks to its commitment to the environment, Oltco has attracted many like-minded individuals to its franchising network. Among their many accolades was being named as runner-up in the category ‘Recycled Product of the Year’ at the National Recycling Awards.
To provide an example of what Oltco has achieved regarding sustainability, an average-sized driveway measuring 70 square metres could offset a tonne of carbon dioxide, which is the equivalent of planting six trees.
Because of the company’s rapid growth, they have had to find new headquarters in Pargolla Road, Newquay. They now have 16 employees at HQ which forms part of a hub for local businesses, and includes a yoga studio, coffee store and a barbers shop.
Oltco’s co-director, Tom Stringer, says: “Since launching our first franchise in 2019 we have achieved many things, and celebrating our 50th franchised area was definitely one of the highlights. We are proud to have so many passionate franchisees in our network and we are excited to see them grow along with us.”
About: Oltco is the UK’s leading sustainable resin-bound driveway company which offers solutions for domestic and commercial markets alike. Their range of services includes resin bound driveways, patios, pathways, balconies and pool surrounds.
