Sales of Colourfence’s unique ‘fit and forget’ boundary fencing have doubled in the last 18 months. Made from innovative Colorbond steel – high-tensile, durable and with an anti-corrosive coating that won’t rust – the product has been snapped up by homeowners searching for a maintenance-free and weatherproof alternative to timber fencing.

Developed in Australia, and accounting for 40 percent of the marketplace over there, Colourfence was launched into the UK more than a decade ago. Now manufactured in South Wales, all surveys and installations are handled by a network of more than 40 locally owned franchises.

One of the latest franchisees to join, Bolton-based Steve Beaumont, picked up six sales in his first three weeks: “I was attracted to Colourfence as its an exciting business model with brilliant USPs. And I couldn’t have asked for a better start,” he says. “There are great people behind this business, and the whole launch process has been superb. I’m loving every minute of it!”

Seasoned franchisees are also seeing an upturn in sales: Richard McDonald from Colourfence North London has doubled his turnover, while James Hunter from Buckinghamshire, who joined back in 2005, is up 150% year-on-year. Total retail sales are just below £3.5million for the year.

Company founder, Mark Stewart-Woods, isn’t surprised the nation has taken to Colourfence, and believes it is even more suited to our damp climate. “This product is a household name in Australia and it soon will be here in the UK as well,” says Mark. “With timber fences lasting just a few years before they rot and collapse, customers are crying out for a long-lasting substitute. Colourfence is guaranteed to remain unspoiled for 25 years. Whats more, it also withstands gusts of up to 130mph – so will still be standing after every winter storm.”

Colourfence holds regular Open Days at its factory in Newport for prospective franchisees. The franchise, which can be run as a management or hands-on business, costs £13,995 + vat