Leading high street kitchen franchisor In-toto is launching a new store concept in Leicester to support its national franchise network and respond quickly to consumer trends.

The Leicester store is owned and managed by In-toto and will serve as a test bed for new products, ranges and software while operating as a showroom and training centre for new franchisees.

Due to open in August 2012, In-toto has spent over £80k refurbishing the store and installing the latest contemporary, handleless and traditional kitchens.

In-toto kitchens is the country’s biggest group of independent kitchen retailers. Established in 1980, In-toto has 45 stores across the UK, spanning from Scotland and Northern Ireland to Exeter. In-toto prides itself on such an extensive national network, with the average franchisee serving nine years with the brand.

The new Leicester store has been welcomed by current In-toto franchisees and heralded as a new era in business support and insight.

In-toto Poole franchisee, Lynn Foster, said: “The new store is a fantastic idea from a business development point of view. I believe it will truly benefit new franchisees, especially if they haven’t worked in this field before as it offers a base for additional training and consumer observation that will enhance the existing franchise experience.

“Having the correct environment and support to learn the day to day running of a showroom will be a great confidence boost for new businesses.” 

Headed by kitchen expert Derek Bell who has over 25 years experience as a designer, installation manager and kitchen sales executive, In-toto Leicester will operate on exactly the same terms and conditions as other In-toto outlets and demonstrate the performance of the In-toto business model.

The store boasts 1,200 sq ft for retail space with additional space for an office and training area that will be extremely beneficial to new and existing In-toto franchisees. The store will offer training and support in CAD design soft wear, business and showroom management.

Managing director Jonathon Wagstaff said: “The Leicester store marks a significant step in the In-toto business strategy. We have a track record of 32 years as a leading high street kitchen franchise offering mid to high end contemporary German and traditional British kitchens and operate so successfully that 15% of store owners have had the confidence to invest in multiple In-toto stores.

“We have wanted to support our franchisees even further by truly understanding the franchisee experience and the only way to do this is by owning and managing our own store.”