Clearview installs, on average, 60 conservatories a month with a sales value of £7.5 million last year through its established branches in Leyland, Lancashire and Holmes Chapel, Cheshire. The Warrington branch opened earlier this year is confidently expected to boost the company’s sales by a further £2.5 million in its first 12 months.

Such growth would be impressive under any conditions but with conservatory sales falling off a cliff over the past three to four years, it is quite remarkable. And yet according to sales director Chris Mitchell there are no miracles behind such prodigious growth: “Sorry to disappoint you but there are no big secrets behind our success; and to use a cliché it is down to professionalism – doing what any company should be doing but, I guess, doing it very well. Our combined experience has allowed us to avoid the pitfalls and growing pains that other start ups may experience, which means of course that there has been no learning curve.”

Another key element in the company’s success, says Mitchell, is its membership from day one of the Conservatory Outlet network: “We needed a first rate marketing and promotional campaign. Obviously we had several options including of course the development of our own strategies. We also looked around the market place to see what others were doing, what was successful and of course, what was not. We were aware of Conservatory Outlet and that it was a sort of networking operation and we were very impressed with what we saw.

“It appeared to be a sort of franchise, although on closer inspection there are no fees or tie-ins and we were able to retain our own identity as well as utilising the Conservatory Outlet brand. Our commitment to Conservatory Outlet was to buy product from them – all of our windows – for which in return we could tap into what we believe is in many respects the best retail marketing operation in the UK window and conservatory business.”

Clearview supplements the marketing it receives as part of the Conservatory Outlet network with its own television advertisements and extensive promotional activity across the region, in addition to local support for each store. “We do spend a considerable amount of advertising and promotion,” says Mitchell. “Advertising still works, although the way in which we advertise and promote ourselves is very different from when I began in the industry. The Internet is now a major factor in our lead generation.”

One of the key benefits that Clearview and other network members enjoy from Conservatory Outlet is the main national web site, in addition to an individually styled and hosted site that is customised – and importantly, optimised – to their company, in their specific area. This follows the strong and clear corporate identity of Conservatory Outlet but will also carry specific messages and design elements that are specific to each network member. Much of this is provided free of charge to members of the network.

“It is not the web site itself that is the key element here; a number of companies will provide this,” explained Mitchell. “What makes the Conservatory Outlet web site so effective is the back office work that means if you type ‘conservatories’ into Google, Conservatory Outlet will consistently be one of the top names listed; few of the big national retailers do this as effectively. And, perhaps more importantly, when someone is looking a little more specifically, dropping the area into the search, then the web site of the dealer in that area will enjoy their name popping up at the top of the list for thousands of key words entered by homeowners. We get hundreds of high quality sales leads from this.”

Installation boss Andy Ross says that the sales leads translate to better business and more satisfied customers: “Because many of the people that come to us through an Internet search have carried out a lot of research as part of the process, they are better informed and understand the key issues better. Our installation process is structured, using installers that are the best in the business and we communicate what is happening and when it is happening. And this all leads to very happy customers, who tell their friends and family. Again,” adds Ross, “this is a traditional approach but applied very effectively.”

The showrooms themselves are also a key part of the Conservatory Outlet dealer network requirement. Clearview’s latest is located on a large retail park in Warrington, surrounded with such retail giants as Toys ‘R’ Us in addition to a host of other home improvement outlets, such as tile centres. With a large car park it is destination shopping at its best. An investment of £150,000 has ensured that there is plenty for the visiting homeowner to become excited about, with interiors that are inspiring in themselves to offer Mr and Mrs Jones plenty to get the creative juices flowing for their stylish end of terrace, or the Ponsonby-Smythes for their country seat.

New styles abound, including examples of Orangeries with both brick and preformed pilasters. Ultraframe’s intriguing ‘Verandah’ is also to be found as well as the ever popular bi fold doors, something that Conservatory Outlet has recently begun manufacturing.

The objective therefore is very simple: all efforts are directed at driving traffic to the showrooms because once there, any reasonably interested homeowners will have difficulty in walking away. And with Conservatory Outlet’s market-beating online effectiveness and, in the North of England at least, regular television advertising, it is an unbeatable package. That there is no premium charged by Conservatory Outlet for such powerful marketing is extraordinary.

Says Mitchell: “It was a no brainer to use Conservatory Outlet when we began Clearview simply as our investment went into the first showroom and infrastructure. But now we have a choice, we could market ourselves quite comfortably. But why would we when we have the best marketing package in the country, free of charge?”

To find out more about Clearview Home Imporvements visit www.theconservatoryoutlet.co.uk or yopu can click on www.conservatoryoutlet.co.uk.

Ideally located on a new Warrington retail park adjacent to other home improvement retailers and major retail brands from all sectors, the new Clearview showroom is the result of a £150,000 investment to create what is believed by Conservatory Outlet to be ‘the best retail conservatory showroom in the North of England and probably the UK’.

The showroom contains 8 fully featured conservatories in a range of styles, including a number of orangeries constructed using traditional brick and others using the latest modular components. A range of colours also illustrates the options open to customers, with bi-fold doors bound to provide an attraction to visitors. Every conservatory is fully furnished in a range of styles, designed throughout by a professional interior designer.

Clearview, which was formed just two years ago and a member of the Conservatory Outlet network from day one, has leapt to become the region’s leading retailer installing 60 conservatories a month with a sales value of £7.5 million last year through its existing branches in Preston, Lancashire and Holmes Chapel, Cheshire. The Warrington branch is confidently expected to boost the company’s sales by £2.5 million in its first year.

“Clearview Home Improvements fully embrace the ideals and professionalism that we aspire to at Conservatory Outlet,” commented Matthew Glover, the company’s managing director. “It is a superb operation that significantly builds upon the marketing support that we provide by creating its own television and other regional advertising; the rapid growth enjoyed by Clearview is the result of total professionalism.”

Clearview sales director Chris Mitchell believes that the marketing might of being a part of the Conservatory Outlet network has been a keystone in the success of the company: “Between us the directors of Clearview have more than 40 years in the business. But the superb marketing support, including television advertising and the industry’s best internet advertising & marketing team, has helped us become the region’s number one retailer in just two years.”

Readers interested in further information on Conservatory Outlet should visit a special website: www.conservatoryoutlet.co.uk

We are now offering up to 30% off our conservatories, with low rate finance available, so that you can continue to save money when it matters most. The only difficult thing you have to do is choose which of our range you want installed.

Our conservatories can add a touch of grandeur that most extensions will not provide. Designed so natural light can burst into the room, you will find it be a most elegant addition to your home. A Sunroom conservatory can provide a great link between your home and your back garden and are perfect for those with a bungalow. Just because you have bungalow doesn’t mean you should be denied the enjoyment and healthy living of a conservatory.

Just when you thought things couldn’t get any better, we are also offering 30% all our windows and doors, we promise we haven’t gone mad! Our windows consist of double glazing and are some of the most technically advanced in the market, guaranteed to impress even the most disinterested of passers by.

Our doors are designed to keep your home or conservatory wonderfully warm, quiet and totally secure. Each door is custom made so you need not worry about your new door not fitting in with the look of the rest of your home. They are also made of the very best in uPVC and are energy efficient, guaranteed to result in noticeable heating bill reductions.

Why not obtain a free quotation by taking just a few minutes to fill in our online form at www.conservatoryoutlet.co.uk. Alternatively call us on freephone 0800 915 8844 to further discuss your needs.

With this in mind, in the unlikely instance that you manage to find any equivalent quality uPVC product for less anywhere else within 7 days we will match or refund the difference. We also offer affordable and convenient easy payment finance options on all our products.

With many years experience in the industry, Conservatory Outlet offers the highest quality windows, doors, orangeries and conservatories at affordable prices.

The addition of new windows to any home can help brighten up the appearance of a property, as well as add value. Our windows incorporate a multi chamber construction to control noise and heat loss and come with a 10 year guarantee as standard.

Our collection of doors are not just designed to be aesthetically pleasing, but are created to keep your home totally secure. All our doors are built to be custom made so they will suit any property and can be guaranteed to last for years to come.

For those looking for an area to unwind or who just need to create valuable extra space within the home, the installation of a conservatory or orangery is the ideal solution. Not only can they be used all year round, but they can become the centre piece for all those party and dinner occasions. All our conservatories use the very best in energy efficient windows, ensuring continued warmth whatever the weather.

We would urge you to come and visit our stylish indoor showrooms so you can ‘try before you buy’, as well as ask any of our helpful team any questions you may have.

What are you waiting for? Freephone Conservatory Outlet today on 0800 915 8844 now or arrange a free showroom appointment online – simply click here and complete our appointment form.

What will your conservatory be used for?
By identifying what you plan to use your new conservatory for it will help you to make some important decisions such as how big it needs to be, where it is going to located and what materials it will be made from. Conservatories can be used for a variety of different purposes such as living areas, dining rooms, studies and playrooms to name but a few of the possible uses.

What style of conservatory would you like?
There are a number of different styles of conservatories to choose from and some of the most popular include Victorian, Edwardian and Mediterranean. A major influence when choosing a style is that it is important that your new conservatory will fit in and compliment the current style of your property. Do your research and find out about the different styles available to ensure that you find the right conservatory for you.

What material do you want your conservatory to be made of?
Conservatories are generally made of wood or uPVC. Over recent years uPVC has become very popular as it is far cheaper and requires very little maintenance unlike wood which requires treating every couple of years to prevent it from rotting. uPVC conservatories are also fitted with double glazing as standard which makes them far more energy efficient and cheaper to run.

Will you need planning permission?
The majority of conservatories do not require planning permission. However, it is always best to check with your local planning office first particularly if you are installing a large conservatory or you are in a conservation area.

Will you require building regulation approval?
Most conservatories in England and Wales which are added to residential properties do not require building regulation approval as long as a number of conditions are met including:
• The roof of the conservatory is completely transparent or translucent
• The floor area of the conservatory does not exceed 30sqm
• The conservatory is permanently separated from the rest of the property by a door.

Again if you are in any doubt check with your local council.

How should you furnish your conservatory?
You can furnish your conservatory with virtually any kind of furniture you like. However when choosing furniture is worth considering how hot the conservatory will get and the amount of natural sunlight as some materials will fade. For these reasons wicker and wrought iron furniture remain popular favourites.

What time scales should you allow for the installation of your conservatory?
All conservatories are different and the amount of time it takes to install a conservatory can vary greatly but the average installation time for a conservatory is usually no longer than one week.

Conservatory Outlet specialise in the manufacturing and installation of Conservatories, Orangeries, Double Glazing and uPVC windows and doors. For more information on conservatory installations in your area visit www.conservatoryoutlet.co.uk or call 0800 915 8844 for a free no obligation quote.

Choosing the right home improvement company for PVC conservatories, orangeries, windows and doors is one of the most important decisions you’ll make when thinking about adding a new bespoke conservatory or having replacement double glazing windows fitted. It’s not just about the price, it’s about the quality and value for money of the products themselves.

Planet South Lakes, currently based in Kendal, Cumbria understand that it means so much when you finally find a company who you feel you can trust to do the job properly – first time. It also makes a huge difference if workers are punctual, courteous, considerate and careful with your possessions. Planet’s dedicated craftsmen will install your new bespoke conservatory, custom built orangery or double glazed windows and doors to the highest standards – working with maximum respect for your property and with minimum disruption to your home life.

A properly planned and fitted PVC conservatory, orangery or quality double glazed windows and doors from Planet South Lakes will add lasting value to your home. That’s the way it should be. So that’s what we do.

So, if you looking for a local home improvement company offering the very latest uPVC Conservatories in Lancaster? A tailor-made Orangery in Lancaster? Or a company who installs the very latest ‘A’ Rated Replacement Double Glazing Windows in Lancaster? Make Planet South Lakes your first choice.

CLICK HERE to contact Planet South Lakes online and arrange a free quotation or freephone 0800 615 2255.

And January 2009 has been equally busy with 15% growth compared to the same period of 2008, and last week was the busiest ever week for frame orders at the factory. So, February is looking pretty healthy already!

So, why is Conservatory Outlet beating the recession?

Well, we’re working very hard with our marketing. Our unique TV adverts currently running on Yorkshire and Granada TV are capturing the imagination and bringing in plenty of interest. We are also working very hard with our Conservatory Outlet website and individual dealer sites. January was a record month for leads generated from our websites. We’ve also put in place a customer care centre at our Leeds conservatory showroom, specifically for handling all enquiries efficiently.

Another reason we’re so busy is the efforts we put in to ensuring our conservatory showrooms are well maintained with up to date products, and great displays. Conservatory Outlet has the best range of conservatory showrooms in the UK, with showrooms at Cumbria, Lancashire, Cheshire, Mid Wales, Shropshire, South Wales, York and Harrogate in North Yorkshire, and Wakefield, Leeds and Mirfield in west Yorkshire.

We ensure that our sales staff are fully trained and up to date with new product launches such as the new orangeries, and energy rated windows we are now heavily promoting.

So, in times of recession it is important that you choose the right company to deal with, and we believe you can’t go wrong with one of our Conservatory Outlet dealers!