Trends and opportunities for 2024

In recent years we have experienced a number of changes Home service industry caused by changes in consumer preferences. These market trends are redefining the status quo and presenting both challenges and opportunities for home service companies.

Such a business is HorsePower brandsa franchising company whose portfolio includes home services brands such as Mighty Dog Roofing, Gatsby glass And Bumblebee blinds. 1851 Franchise recently spoke with the Chief Marketing Officer of HorsePower Brands Laura Vodvarka Here are some insights into these industry trends and their impact on home services franchises.

The focus is on comfort and efficiency

That shouldn’t be a surprise Convenience and efficiency are top priorities for consumers. That’s why home service franchises are leveraging technology and optimizing their processes to meet this demand and provide their busy customers with conveniences like easy scheduling and “hassle-free” experiences.

“We continue to see increasing booking rates for our locations,” Vodvarka said. “It’s clear that customers want the ability to organize their lives when they have time. Often outside of business hours and on weekends. We’ve seen our online booking rates increase every month for the last six-plus months. Up to 10-20% of our leads book directly with us rather than calling and filling out forms.”

As the bar for customer expectations continues to rise, convenience and choice are no longer novelties, but rather a must for every home service business. For example, it is no longer enough to simply book an appointment online.

“[T]“They want to book with us through social media or through a Google search directory without having to go all the way to our website,” Vodvarka explained. “We have also expanded our opening hours so that customers can call 24 hours a day to better assist with their needs. Responsiveness to customer needs and ability to meet customer schedules are frequently mentioned in our Google reviews, indicating a customer-focused approach to service.”

Sustainability and eco-friendly practices

A trend that has come to the forefront in the last decade or so has been green, sustainable companies. Consumers – and Millennials in particular – have become more environmentally conscious and are now looking for purpose-driven brands that are committed to environmental sustainability.

This is a challenge (and opportunity) that has been embraced by the home service franchises operating under the HorsePower Brands umbrella. Bumble Bee Blinds, for example, has made a point of working with providers who prioritize sustainability and energy efficiency.

“Environmentally conscious forestry practices, sustainable manufacturing methods that include recycling, water conservation, minimal packaging and a commitment to using Greenguard certified materials are all ways that Bumble Bee Blinds suppliers provide value to environmentally conscious customers,” stated Brand President Luke Schwartz. “In addition, several providers offer products that significantly reduce consumers’ energy consumption. These products qualify for the Federal Energy Efficiency Tax Credit.”

Gatsby Glass, on the other hand, has actually integrated consumers’ desire for sustainable solutions into its services. “Energy efficiency is becoming increasingly important to consumers as they begin to recognize the benefits of glass in their designs,” said Brand President Kelley Hoven. “Daylighting, an eco-friendly building trend, utilizes glass walls in the overall design, allowing more natural light to flow through an interior space, reducing the need for electric lighting and therefore energy costs.”

By embracing sustainability and offering eco-conscious options, home service franchises can attract these environmentally conscious consumers and align with their evolving values.

Making the most of home services market trends

There is no doubt that the home services industry is undergoing change, driven by changing consumer expectations. Franchises that successfully adapt to these trends and prioritize convenience and sustainability will be well positioned to thrive in the ever-changing marketplace. By embracing these changes in the industry, home service franchises can thrive in this increasingly competitive market.

For more information about home service franchises, check out the following articles on the 1851 franchise: