When Less is More

LOW COST & HOME-BASED FRANCHISES ON THE COVER

As a Renew Crew franchisee, Philip Howe enjoys more time with his wife, Kelli, and their sons, 10-year-old Cannon and 8-year-old Hunter.

Phillip poses with his father and partner, Wayne Howe.

When Less is More

Phillip Howe finds the sweet spot for his Renew Crew franchise

by Jill Abrahamsen

Renew Crew™ franchisee Phillip Howe knows that bigger doesn’t always mean better. At one time, he owned a booming portrait studio. He loved the work but put in more hours than he wanted, especially on the weekends. Howe’s wife, Kelli, also had a demanding job, and the combination just wasn’t family-friendly. “Something had to give. One of us needed a more flexible schedule,” Howe says.

Between the changes in the photography industry and his lack of work-life balance, Howe looked at franchising as a next career step. “I knew I could run a business, and I liked the support system that comes with franchises. So all I needed to do was find a good fit,” he says.

Howe wanted a flexible schedule but not a huge staff. “There’s a ton of headaches that come with managing a lot of employees,” he says. So in 2002, Howe invested in Renew Crew and became the second franchisee in the system. The outdoor surface cleaning company rejuvenates decks, fences, patios, siding, and walkways at homes and businesses.

“I haven’t worked for anyone else since 1996 and never will again.”

BEFORE

The outdoor surface cleaning company rejuvenates decks, fences, siding, patios and more

Originally branded under a different name, the franchise was renamed Renew Crew in 2012 when Outdoor Living Brands purchased it. “With the acquisition came more streamlined procedures, an investment in technology, and better marketing and support,” Howe says. “I couldn’t have been happier.”

Howe grew his Olathe, Kansas, business to four vans and eight to 10 employees, which he considers the perfect size. He could have easily continued scaling up, but explains that “it’s a lot easier to find 10 great guys than 40 great guys. You could actually make more money with a smaller crew. There are fewer problems and it’s easier to manage. Sometimes less is actually more.”

He has no regrets. “I haven’t worked for anyone since 1996 and never will again. With Renew Crew, I have the perfect work-life balance. Now I can spend more time with my family. Isn’t that what it’s all about?”

For more information, visit www.renewcrewfranchise.com.