The rise of remote working in the UK has made starting a home-based business more appealing than ever. By choosing the right work-from-home franchise opportunity, you can build a profitable income stream, reduce overhead costs, and enjoy the flexibility of working on your own terms—all without ever leaving the comfort of your home office.
According to the British Franchise Journal (2024), 47% of UK franchise systems now operate from home offices—a number that climbs to 56% when sectors like retail, hospitality, and catering are excluded. Just a few years ago, that figure stood at only 29%. The trend reflects a clear shift in how and where businesses can thrive in the modern economy.
Types of home-based franchise businesses
Home-based franchises come in various forms, each suited to different skills and goals. Here are some of the most popular types:
Professional services franchises: Ideal for those with a background in finance, consulting, recruitment, or marketing. These B2B franchises let you deliver expert services from your home, often via video calls and digital platforms.
Online tutoring and education franchises: With remote learning more popular than ever, education franchises are booming. You can teach students of all ages in subjects like maths, English, or even coding, all from your living room.
Pet care franchises: From dog walking to pet sitting and grooming, this type of franchise appeals to animal lovers. Many pet care franchises offer flexible hours and minimal setup costs.
E-commerce franchises: These involve selling goods or services online through a franchise-branded website or marketplace. They offer global reach with relatively low start-up costs.
What is hybrid working?
Hybrid working refers to a blend of home-based and in-person work. As a franchisee, this might mean running your business from home most of the time, while occasionally visiting clients, attending events, or collaborating with other franchisees face-to-face.
Can I run a franchise while travelling?
Yes, it's possible to operate a franchise as a digital nomad, but you’ll need to manage expectations. Most franchisors will require you to remain in the UK during your training and launch phase. Once operational, some businesses can be managed remotely—provided you stay compliant with UK tax laws and have stable internet access.
If travelling, make sure you're transparent with the franchisor about your intentions. Also, check time zone compatibility and local legal requirements before working abroad. You can find updated information on HMRC and digital nomad taxes on the UK Government website.
How to find home-based franchise opportunities
There are several ways to discover franchise opportunities that support remote working:
Franchise exhibitions: Events such as The British & International Franchise Exhibition are excellent for meeting franchisors face-to-face.
LinkedIn: Follow franchise brands and recruiters to discover new opportunities.
Industry publications: Magazines and websites often feature rankings and updates on the best performing home-based franchises.
Benefits of buying a work from home franchise
There are multiple advantages to starting a home-based franchise business:
Work-life balance: Avoiding the daily commute allows for more flexible scheduling—ideal for parents, caregivers, and those seeking better lifestyle integration.
Cost savings: With no need to rent an office, you’ll save significantly on overheads. Plus, HMRC offers tax relief for remote working expenses.
Comfort and convenience: Set up your workspace how you like, improving both comfort and productivity.
Disadvantages to consider
Despite the benefits, home-based franchises come with a few challenges:
Isolation: If you thrive in team settings, working solo may feel lonely.
Distractions: Sharing space with family members during the workday can reduce productivity unless boundaries are clearly set.
Limited storage: Businesses involving physical products may struggle with space limitations at home.
Networking hurdles: Building business relationships will require proactive efforts, including attending virtual or in-person networking events and maintaining a presence on platforms like LinkedIn and X (formerly Twitter).
Choosing the best franchise for home working
The best home-based franchise for you depends on your lifestyle, budget, and professional goals. Here are key questions to ask:
What sector do you want to operate in?
Who will your clients or customers be?
Does the franchisor offer sufficient support for remote operations?
Are you required to work set hours or can you choose your schedule?
Can you manage the business while travelling, or are you restricted to the UK for compliance?
Evaluating these factors ensures you invest in a business that fits your circumstances and aspirations.
How to succeed as a home-based franchisee
Rachel Ray, founder of the Bright & Beautiful cleaning franchise, shares her top tips for running a franchise from home effectively:
Prioritise your day: Plan your schedule in advance. Allocate time blocks for different tasks and always put the most urgent jobs at the top. Include regular breaks for fresh air—your wellbeing is part of your productivity.
Minimise distractions: Designate a specific room or area of your home as your office. Communicate with family members about your working hours to avoid interruptions. Treat your home office like a real office.
Stay organised: Keep detailed records of tasks, deadlines, and performance metrics. Whether it's customer appointments or invoicing, a good tracking system will keep your business running smoothly and prepare you for future growth.
Seek expert help: Outsource where necessary. Hiring an accountant, for example, can save you time and ensure compliance. Focus your energy on tasks that generate the most revenue.
Manage email effectively: Limit email checks to a few times per day to avoid constant interruptions. Unsubscribe from unnecessary mailing lists and organise incoming messages into folders for quick reference.
Is a home-based franchise right for you?
Working from home offers an exciting route to business ownership with lower costs, more freedom, and the potential for a better work-life balance. However, it requires discipline, planning, and the right support from your franchisor. By choosing a model that suits your lifestyle and putting systems in place early, you can create a profitable and rewarding remote business.