If you like the idea of running a lawn mowing business but don’t want to start one from scratch, buying a lawn mowing franchise may be worth considering. Availability, location, timing, and personal circumstances all play a role, and these are things only you can assess.
And while we can’t recommend a specific franchise for you, we can outline the key factors you should consider before deciding whether a lawn mowing franchise is the right choice for you.
How to Choose the Right Lawn Mowing Franchise?
The following factors can help you make a more informed choice.
Brand Strength
Well-known franchise brands usually come with a higher price tag, but they can also generate more work through established advertising, name recognition, and customer trust. A strong brand may help you secure jobs faster, especially when you’re starting.
Reputation
Research how each franchise is viewed in the wider lawn care and garden maintenance industry. A simple online search can reveal customer reviews, complaints, and feedback from current or former franchisees. This can give you insight into how the business operates in practice, not just on paper.
Recommendations and Reviews
If you know someone who already owns a lawn mowing franchise, their experience can be extremely valuable. You can also check online forums, social media groups, and industry discussions to hear honest opinions from franchisees.
Upfront Costs
Lawn mowing franchises typically have upfront costs ranging from $15,000 to $50,000. Whether this investment is worthwhile depends on what’s included, such as training, equipment, territory rights, and lead generation. Always compare the cost against the support you’ll actually receive.
Ongoing Fees
Most franchises charge ongoing fees to cover services like call-centre referrals, administration, and marketing. Take time to understand exactly what you’re paying for each month and whether the return justifies the cost.
Your Personal Circumstances
Consider your own experience with lawn mowing, your business skills, available time, financial situation, and long-term goals. A franchise that suits one person may not suit another, so make sure it aligns with your lifestyle and expectations.
Personal Rapport
Your relationship with the franchisor or franchise sales team matters more than you might expect. While much communication may happen via email or SMS, there will be times when you need direct support. A positive working relationship can make a big difference to your day-to-day experience.
So, which mowing franchise is the best?
You will have to make that call on your own. However, here's a list of lawn mowing franchises from the Australian market that you can compare.
The following brands are listed in no particular order. The list is far from exhaustive, and none are endorsed by us in any way.
- VIP Home Services started back in 1979 and are based in SA
- Jim's Mowing dates back to 1989 and is based in VIC
- Express Lawn Mowing & Gardening is based in QLD and is the second biggest home services franchise group.
- Grey Army based in VIC
- Graham's Garden Care started back in 1982 and is based in QLD
- Fox Mowing & Gardening was started in just 2012 by a former master franchisor from Jim's Mowing, now based in SA
- James Home Services was purchased in 2015 by Just 1 Call from QLD, which itself started in 1993
- Andrew's Affordable Mowing Service started back in 1984 and is based in QLD
- Top Cut Lawn Mowing is based in VIC
- 1300 4 Gardening started back in 1998 and is based in QLD
- Mark's Mowing is based in VIC
- Boring Chores Property Services is currently based in QLD
- Select Lawn Mowing is actually based in NZ but started operating in Australia back in 2006
Conclusion
Buying a lawn mowing franchise can be a good option if you want the structure, support, and brand recognition of an established business without starting from scratch. However, it’s not a decision to rush.
Factors such as cost, ongoing fees, reputation, and how well the franchise aligns with your personal goals and circumstances all deserve careful consideration. Take the time to compare your options, speak with existing franchisees, and seek professional advice where needed.
A well-informed decision will give you the best chance of building a lawn mowing business that is both profitable and enjoyable in the long term.
