Entrepreneur Reignites Business Ambitions With Ovenu Littlehampton

After the pandemic forced the closure of his removals business, entrepreneur Steve Luckett is making a fresh start with the launch of Ovenu Littlehampton – marking his return to self-employment and reigniting his passion for business ownership.

The 52-year-old spent years working in customer facing and management roles before achieving his dream of becoming his own boss in 2011, when he set up a thriving removals company. However, like many small business owners, the arrival of Covid-19 in early 2020 dealt a heavy blow, bringing the market to a standstill.

A subsequent spell as transport manager for an accident repair company only reinforced his determination to take back control of his working life. That led to his decision to invest in an Ovenu franchise, offering professional oven valeting services across the BN16, BN17 and BN18 postcodes, covering Littlehampton, Arundel, Angmering, East Preston, Rustington, Arun, Yapton, Amberley, Fontwell, Burpham, Houghton and surrounding areas.

“I really enjoyed the freedom of working for myself, but going back to a salaried role didn’t sit well,” said Steve. “A franchise gives me the independence of running my own business, with the reassurance of a trusted brand and ongoing support.”

With a new territory to develop, his initial focus is on building a loyal client base and delivering a first-class service, with plans to expand the business and recruit an additional technician in the future.

“I’ve spent much of my career in both customer-facing and managerial roles, so this is the ideal job for me,” he added. “I’m friendly, reliable and take pride in doing a thorough job – qualities I hope people will appreciate.”

Originally from London, Steve began his career as a postman, rising to become a Royal Mail office manager before moving into logistics as a branch manager for a truck rental company. Having holidayed in West Sussex since childhood, he and his wife moved to Arundel three years ago.

Rik Hellewell, founder and managing director of the Ovenu franchise, said: “Steve has a strong background in customer service, along with the experience of previously running his own business, but most importantly, he has the drive and work ethic to succeed.”

The Ovenu process uses non-caustic, biodegradable cleaning products and involves dismantling key oven components – such as doors, panels, fans and shelves – to restore them to near showroom condition. The service also covers hobs, extractor hoods, microwaves and range cookers.