STARTAFRAN LTD

Executive Summary

StartaFran Ltd operates as a niche franchise consultancy within the broad professional and technical services sector, leveraging established brands in pest and bee removal. Financially, it exhibits typical early-stage characteristics with negative equity improving over time and a focus on franchise growth supported by a lean structure. While not an industry leader, the company is positioned to capitalize on franchising trends, though its long-term creditor exposure warrants close management.

STARTAFRAN LTD - Analysis Report

Company Number: 13147543

Analysis Date: 2025-07-20 13:40 UTC

1. Industry Classification
   StartaFran Ltd operates under SIC code 74909, categorized as "Other professional, scientific and technical activities not elsewhere classified." This sector is broadly defined and typically includes specialized consulting, franchise management, and niche professional services that do not fit neatly into other SIC categories. Companies here often provide bespoke services such as franchise consultancy, technical advisory, or unique service delivery models. The sector tends to have low fixed asset intensity and relies heavily on intellectual property, brand value, and franchise networks.

2. Relative Performance
   StartaFran Ltd is a micro to small-sized private limited company incorporated in 2021, with a very modest share capital of £1. Its latest financials show net assets of -£14,785 (an improvement from -£33,963 the previous year), indicating accumulated losses but a trajectory toward reducing negative equity. The company’s fixed assets are minimal (£852), consistent with a service-oriented business model. Current assets increased significantly to £47,360, largely driven by debtors (£41,153), while current liabilities are low (£6,073). However, the company carries significant long-term creditors (£56,924), which suggests reliance on external financing or related-party loans. Compared to typical companies in professional technical consultancy sectors, StartaFran’s negative net asset position is concerning but not uncommon for early-stage franchise or consultancy firms investing in growth. Its working capital position is positive, suggesting near-term liquidity is sufficient.

3. Sector Trends Impact
   The professional, scientific and technical activities sector has been influenced by growing demand for franchise and consultancy services, especially in niche markets such as pest control and environmentally sensitive services like live bee removal (as indicated by the company’s previous branding around PGH Beegone). Industry trends include digital transformation of service delivery, increased franchising as a growth strategy, and heightened regulatory scrutiny around environmental and health standards. StartaFran’s franchise model aligns well with these trends, leveraging brand franchising to expand market reach without heavy capital expenditure. However, competition in the franchise consultancy space is intensifying, and continued investment in brand development and franchisee support is critical to sustain growth. The sector’s typical challenges include cash flow management during rapid expansion and maintaining franchisee satisfaction.

4. Competitive Positioning
   StartaFran Ltd appears to be a niche player focusing on franchise opportunities in specialized pest prevention and bee removal services. Its strength lies in operating two well-established brands and offering franchise territories—a business model that allows scalability with limited capital outlay. The company’s negative equity position reflects early-stage investment and possible losses typical in franchise development phases. Compared to larger or more established players in professional consultancy or franchise management, StartaFran’s modest asset base and financial leverage suggest it is still in a building phase rather than a market leader. Its reliance on a single director and minimal staff (average employees = 1) points to a lean operational structure. The positive net current assets and growing debtor balances imply active sales and franchise development, but the long-term creditor burden could restrict operational flexibility if not managed prudently. Overall, the company’s financials are consistent with a small, growth-oriented niche franchise operator rather than a broad industry leader.