Forging Ahead: Neighbourly UK Franchise Owners Gather for Reunion 2026

Hundreds of franchise owners from across our six brands came together in Birmingham for Reunion 2026, one of the largest franchise gatherings in the UK home services sector. With the network back together for the first time in two years, there was a real buzz around the event from the start.

The event brought together franchise owners from Drain Doctor, Bright & Beautiful, Greensleeves Lawn Care, Dream Doors, Countrywide Grounds Maintenance and Pimlico Plumbers, alongside our support team.

It was a chance for the network to reconnect, share experiences and set the direction for the year ahead. Across two days of sessions, discussion and celebration, one theme ran throughout. Forging Ahead.

Facing the Market Head On

Across the home services sector, businesses are operating in a tough economic environment. Customers are more careful with spending, costs remain high, labour is still difficult, and competition continues to grow.

These realities were addressed head-on throughout the event. The message was clear. While conditions may be demanding, it’s how businesses respond that defines their performance. Forging Ahead isn’t just a strapline. It reflects a genuine commitment across the network to keep moving forward with focus and intent.

A Network Built on Standards

The first day of Reunion focused on brand-specific sessions where franchise owners met with their brand teams. These sessions looked at performance across each network, the priorities for the year ahead, and the practical steps owners can take to strengthen their businesses.

A consistent message came through all six sessions. Results come from doing the right things, repeatedly and well. Growth doesn’t tend to come from one big initiative. It comes from the habits and routines that sit behind every strong business. Good customer service, tight operations and getting the basics right every day.

Learning from High Performers

The second day brought all six brands together as one, with a focus on the shared opportunities across the group.

Global CEO Mike Davis joined the event and shared his perspective on Neighborly’s continued international growth and the role our UK network plays.

The event also welcomed a number of guest speakers. Alex Polizzi, known for her work turning around hospitality businesses and her no-nonsense approach to running them well, shared her insights on delivering great customer experiences. Olympic legend Sir Chris Hoy, in conversation with broadcaster Lee McKenzie, spoke openly about what it takes to perform at the highest level and come back from setbacks.

For many in the room, those conversations reinforced something that applies as much in business as it does in sport. That long-term success comes from showing up, staying focused and putting the work in when it matters.

Recognising Outstanding Performance

Reunion also provided a chance to recognise franchise owners who have delivered standout results over the past year. When market conditions are tough, strong performance doesn’t happen by accident. It comes from focus, leadership and a real attention to what matters inside a local business.

This year’s Franchisee of the Year awards were presented to:

• Richard Scandrett (Birmingham North & Wolverhampton), Drain Doctor Franchisee of the Year
• Adam Passfield (Derbyshire), Countrywide Grounds Maintenance Franchisee of the Year
• Jamie and Lesley Clark (Doncaster and North Yorkshire), Greensleeves Lawn Care Franchisees of the Year
• Mike Callaghan, Pimlico Plumbers Franchisee of the Year
• Simon and Charlene Herbert (Gloucester), Dream Doors Franchisees of the Year
• Kelly Parums and Wayne Mace (Colchester), Bright & Beautiful Franchisees of the Year

Each of these businesses reflects the qualities that were talked about throughout Reunion. Taking ownership, paying attention to the details and always putting the customer first.

Energy Across the Network

While Reunion is a moment to take stock, its real purpose is to build momentum. Across the two days, franchise owners shared ideas, strengthened relationships and pushed each other to keep improving.

The atmosphere reflected the strength of the network. Experienced owners sharing what they’ve learned with newer franchisees. Brand leaders laying out clear expectations and direction. And a genuine sense that there is more to go after across every brand.

Franchise owners left Birmingham with fresh ideas, renewed energy and a belief in what can be achieved across their local markets. Across six brands and hundreds of local businesses, our network continues to grow and push forward.

Neighbourly is forging ahead.