Aspray Franchisee, John Strange, named finalist for Community Focus Award

For many of our franchisees, Aspray is more than just a business. It’s a chance to help people, often at a time of great need. This has never been truer than for Aspray (Glasgow West) owner, John Strange, who has been named a finalist for the Community Focus Award at the upcoming BFA HSBC Franchise Awards.

Starting with a Mission

John joined Aspray 6 years ago. During his career in the property maintenance industry, he saw the problems faced by homeowners, landlords and tenants when their properties had been damaged. When he came across the Aspray franchise, John knew the business aligned with his skill set and beliefs. Becoming a franchisee gave him the opportunity to put his knowledge into practice and help policyholders throughout his territory.

More than Sport

Sponsoring both the local ice hockey team, The Glasgow Clan, and local football team, St. Mirren, has seen John become involved with various projects within the community.

It was during covid that Aspray (Glasgow West) became the title sponsor of The Glasgow Clan. A time when matches could not go ahead and most of the team had temporarily disbanded during the cancelled season. Knowing that the club was such a focus in the community, John wanted to ensure that they were able to continue once restrictions were lifted. Two years later, John is now heading into his third year as the title sponsor.

St. Mirren is a local, fan owned football club who was looking for sponsors that wouldn’t just provide funding but would get involved in the community programmes the club run. For John, this was a perfect alignment for him and his business.

Making it Personal

Not all John’s charity work is business related. The Glasgow East Alcohol Awareness Project (GEAAP) has a personal meaning to John, who is now chairman of the charity. Since 1991, GEAPP has been working to reduce the harm associated with the use and misuse of alcohol.

One of his biggest achievements to date was helping to secure the building where the charity is based. This gave the charity the opportunity to continue providing support to the thousands of people who need it.

Community Focus Recognition

John will be battling it out against two other nominees to bring home the trophy. The award recognises those business owners who care about more than just profits but are focused on making their business matter in the local community.

Pip Wilkins, CEO of the British Franchising Association, congratulated finalists:

“This category showcases the breadth of impact that business owners operating franchises can have on their communities. It is a common myth that franchises are large faceless organisations, this really isn’t the case and most owners will have invested life savings to open their business and boost their local economies, providing opportunities for local people.”

The awards evening takes place on 24^th November in Birmingham and is known as the ‘Oscars’ of the franchising industry.

John Strange, Owner of Aspray Glasgow West, said:

‘I am thrilled to be named a finalist for the Community Focus Award. Through Aspray, I’ve been able to get involved in various programs and sponsorships across the community that have made a real difference to local people.’