While this is a tried-and-tested route, there is another option that is growing in popularity – established territories.
As franchising has become so successful, franchises are in business for many years and there comes a time when the owner decides to sell their business and capitalise on their investment. This often happens when the owner is approaching retirement, personal circumstances or wishes to pursue a new venture. Rather than closing down, the business is sold and continues under new ownership, ensuring continuity for clients, the team and the wider community.
At Home Instead, we have seen a steady increase in demand for established territories, and with good reason. With an established territory, you gain a trained and dedicated team, an existing client base, an immediate income stream and the ability to build on what is already a known, respected and profitable brand. It also allows for faster growth as with foundations already in place you can focus on growth and expansion more quickly.
A testament to longevity
Established territories are also a sign of strength within the home care franchise sector. At Home Instead, most of our established territories come to market due to retirement, from franchisees who have enjoyed being with the company for many successful years. This is a natural process for brands like Home Instead, who in 2025 is celebrating 20 years in business, providing outstanding home care for older people here in the UK.
This longevity is not only a credit to the individuals who built their businesses but also a reflection of the resilience of the home care sector and Home Instead’s proven business model, presenting an exciting opportunity for the next generation of entrepreneurs.
With an established territory you are able to utilise your strategic, management and people skills to grow the business further, as you will be heading up a team and franchise which is already up and running.
Funding an established territory
If you are considering an established territory you need to take into account the higher price of buying the business, as opposed to the lower cost of a start-up franchise. Funding for a franchise is generally looked on favourably by the banks, as they have a proven track record. Banking partners will often look to contribute in the region of 70% of the total investment and for an established territory this may be offered over a longer period of time than a new franchise.
Luke Spellman, Franchise Development Manager at Home Instead, explained: “We have reached a stage as we celebrate 20 years in business, where we see established territories coming available each year mainly due to retirement, and they tend to sell quickly.
Established territories can often be in highly desirable areas, where they may have been in business for 10-15 years or more, and where there are limited or no new territories available. These can often be substantial franchises with turnovers exceeding £1M, this enables people keen to own a franchise access to an area previously not available. So, it is always advisable to contact franchisors to check what they have available, or if they know of any established territories which may be coming to market.”
The support of a recognised brand
Established territories offer a compelling opportunity: a business with a proven track record, a loyal customer base, and a team already in place, and at Home Instead, you will benefit from all the support and training which a start-up franchise owner receives.
You will also have a dedicated Business Development Consultant to guide you – they will have a wealth of knowledge of your business to help take you to great success. You’ll also enjoy the comprehensive ongoing support from our 70+ team at National Office, ranging from care standards, marketing and IT support.
For ambitious individuals looking to combine commercial success with making a genuine difference in their community, established territories are a pathway worth considering.
This article comes courtesy of Home Instead, the UK’s largest home care company.
