Drone Franchise Offers Sky-High Potential

SkyTech’s exciting ground-floor opportunity is set for take-off nationwide with agricultural and commercial drone services

Around the world, state-of-the-art drone technology is creating efficiencies across a wide range of sectors – especially agricultural services as drones develop greater precision and carrying capacity. Leading this exciting new industry in New Zealand are Mark Lusby and Glen Daniel, who have drawn upon almost 60 years’ combined experience in international commercial aviation and training to create the SkyTech franchise.

SkyTech’s opportunities come in two categories: agriculture (rural work such as applying fertiliser, frost control and weed spraying) and commercial (urban treatments such as roof cleaning, solar panel cleaning and sanitation), while there’s also potential for expansion with national and local government work.

Mark says drones offer multiple advantages for farmers and horticulturalists. ‘Take weed spraying, for example. It’s currently a slow and laborious process involving expensive manpower, with all the health and safety implications that go with that. Drones can provide much faster, safer and more efficient outcomes, with a lower carbon footprint too – something that’s becoming increasingly important in agriculture.

‘Meanwhile, high-tech drones are also enabling the development of what is called “precision farming”. Crop health imaging uses high-powered infrared cameras to detect areas for treatment, enabling farmers to improve crop yields and crop management efficiencies.’

And in the public arena, drones offer great potential for sanitisation management in the wake of the Covid pandemic. ‘A drone can be deployed to safely spray and sanitise all manner of public spaces, from sports stadiums to schools to playgrounds. All that adds up to significant business for our franchisees.’

Based on experience

Having grown up on a dairy farm in South Auckland, Mark brings grassroots knowledge of the agricultural and farming sector to SkyTech, while his vast experience as an airline instructor ensures comprehensive training programmes for SkyTech franchisees. Co-founder Glen is a senior captain on Boeing 777 and 747 aircraft and has been flying drones for over seven years.

‘As a result, we provide a very high standard of oversight and training which enable the franchise to appeal to people from all walks of life. Franchisees might be former aviators affected by the airline industry downturn, people who have some drone experience but not the business background or marketing reach of SkyTech, or anyone who can see the potential of the drone industry but doesn’t know how to get started.’

While franchisees need a certain degree of hand/eye co-ordination as owner/operators, Glen and Mark say all necessary skills can be learned. ‘Computer literacy is important, as is flexibility and a reasonable level of management and organisational skills. Above all, what we’re looking for are people with a passion for drone technology who also have the ability and determination to grow a profitable business of their own.’

Perfect timing

The timing is absolutely perfect for a SkyTech franchise, Mark says. ‘With farmers dogged by rising production costs, extreme weather events and increasing legislation, drone technology offers affordable and infinitely more flexible solutions.’

SkyTech’s drones are leased to franchisees, meaning there’s no up-front equipment cost for franchisees and reducing the risk posed by changing technology. ‘Our drones already offer greater capacity (with tanks up to 72 litres) and performance than the drones of many one-man operators, and leasing means franchisees will be automatically upgraded to the latest equipment after just three years. With future advancements such as AI (artificial intelligence) expected to continue fuelling demand for drone services, it’s important not to invest in outdated machines.’

Up and running in three months

SkyTech agriculture franchises are priced at $85,000 +gst, while commercial franchises are $65,000 +gst. ‘We are in the process of building a company with a national brand and reach so, as an incentive, there’s a $20,000 fee reduction for the first two franchises sold in each division,’ Mark offers.

‘Each franchisee will have their own exclusive territory supported by the franchisor team, enabling them to work together with each other and with us to develop new services and handle national clients.’

Both Mark and Glen will be involved in training people in the comprehensive SkyTech business systems, with third-party operators handling all relevant licensing. Glen says the entire process should take three months, meaning you can be up and running fast. ‘We are totally committed to supporting you and helping you find your first customers as you establish a business of your own.’

Enormous potential

Mark and Glen say it will pay to register your interest in your preferred area early. ‘With awareness of drone technology higher than ever, demand for SkyTech franchises is expected to be strong. We invite enquiries from anyone passionate about building a sustainable and highly-profitable business in an exciting new hi-tech industry.

‘Reap the rewards of your own hard work in an aviation business with a difference. Purchase a lifestyle franchise with a great income and a future asset, and start your journey to a successful and rewarding career with SkyTech. ‘Contact us now to find out more.’

Advertiser Info

SkyTech

www.skytechservices.co.nz

Contact Mark Lusby

P 0800 SKYOPS M 021 0221 2683

franchises@skytechservices.co.nz