The Ashford-based franchisee of Ovenu, the oven valeting service franchise, has just been approved for the second year running as a member of a ‘safe traders’ directory as part of an initiative by Kent County Council.
Richard Clark, a former trading standards officer, who has operated the Ashford Ovenu franchise for over a year and a half joined the council operated ‘Buy With Confidence’ scheme in order to help reassure local clients that he is a trader that can be trusted.
The scheme exists to help and protect residents by providing a directory of legitimate and approved traders. It also aims to increase customer confidence, especially for vulnerable and elderly people who want to remain safe and independent in their own homes.
Ovenu technicians use a unique and thorough valeting process which involves dismantling key components of an oven. Importantly the process is environmentally friendly and involves no toxic chemicals or fumes.
Sharon Salisbury, project officer for Buy with Confidence, said: “The scheme has been introduced by Kent Trading Standards in order to provide consumers with details of reliable local businesses and trades people who carry out work around consumers’ homes and gardens. The businesses are checked by Trading Standards Officers for trustworthiness and compliance with consumer protection laws.
“The ‘Buy with Confidence’ scheme will encourage Kent residents to use tried and tested reputable traders, putting a stop to the activities of rip-off merchants and cowboys.”
Clark said: “I am pleased to continue to be a member of the ‘Buy With Confidence’ scheme. As a former trading standards officer I believe it is important to ensure businesses are screened and local residents are able to make educated choices about who they do business with in their local area.
“Whilst the scheme has been successful in the local area, providing peace of mind for customers, it is rewarding to be recognised for providing a high level of commitment to fair trading and a quality service to my clients,” he added.