Hatch Warren businessman is not blind to opportunity (From Andover Advertiser)

Hatch Warren businessman Derry Walker has taken on the Apollo Blinds franchise for Basingstoke

5:16pm Thursday 7th March 2013 in Hampshire Business By Richard Garfield

A BASINGSTOKE businessman has a dazzling future after signing a franchise deal with Apollo Blinds.

Derry Walker initially joined the country’s biggest blind store as a sales agent in the summer of 2012.

But he liked the business so much he bought the rights to own and operate his own franchise, which he has just launched.

Derry, from Hatch Warren, believes there is a huge opportunity for his new business, where he offers a wide range of window blinds, awnings, plantation shutters and accessories to customers in and around Basingstoke.

Initially operating from a mobile showroom, the 47-year-old will cover areas such as Overton, Whitchurch, Tadley, Hook and Hartley Witney, Derry, who is a carpenter and previously ran Basingstoke Double Glazing Repairs, said: “As soon as I started working for Apollo Blinds, I saw the scale of the opportunity as it’s a company with a great reputation for the quality of its products, which are actually at affordable prices.

“There was an opportunity to buy the franchise and I took it with both hands because it’s something I’m very comfortable with and I know I can build a business that is based on helping homeowners make the most of every window in their home.

“I’ll be offering a consultative service providing homeowners with inspiring ideas and stunning products that will make them go ‘wow’.”