From food manufacturing to three thriving care businesses: Rick Parekh’s Bluebird Care story
Rick Parekh had no background in care when he opened his first Bluebird Care office in 2016. Ten years on, he runs three territories across Staffordshire and South Derbyshire, has a string of quality awards to his name, and says he still loves what he does.
Franchise Partner: Rakesh (Rick) Parekh
Territories: Stafford, Burton & Swadlincote, and Cannock & Great Wyrley
Trading since: 2016
Previous career: Director, food manufacturing and distribution
Looking for more than a return
Before Bluebird Care, Rick was a Director of a successful food manufacturing and distribution business. There he built experience in leadership, operations, finance and customer service, which gave him a solid grounding for running his own business. For his next venture, though, he wanted more than a commercial return.
“I wanted to build something that would make a difference within the local community,” says Rick. “Running a successful business is rewarding, but knowing that the work we do enables people to remain safely in the place they love most – their own home – makes it incredibly meaningful.”
Franchising appealed because it let him build his own business “whilst benefiting from the support and proven systems of an established national brand.” Rick researched several options, but Bluebird Care kept standing out for its reputation, its proven model and its commitment to quality.
“Unlike some franchise models, I felt Bluebird Care empowered franchise partners to put quality first, without unnecessary restrictions that could compromise the service we provide. That culture and shared values made it an easy decision.”
Rick funded the business with the proceeds from selling another business, along with personal savings. That let him invest in a strong foundation from day one and take a long-term approach to growth.
Learning a new sector, with support behind him
“Like any new business, the early days were challenging,” Rick says. “There was a huge amount to learn, from the care sector itself through to recruitment, compliance, regulation and building a strong reputation within the local community.”
“Bluebird Care provided excellent initial training and ongoing support, giving us the confidence to establish the business on solid foundations. More importantly, that support has continued throughout our journey. We’ve benefited from the National Support Team and the willingness of fellow franchise partners to share ideas and best practice.”
Growing year after year
“The business has exceeded my expectations in many ways,” says Rick. “We’ve continued to grow year after year.”
What started as one office is now three territories. Along the way, the business has been recognised with Bluebird Care Office of the Year, the Gold Quality Award and multiple Top 20 Home Care Provider awards.
“Whilst these achievements are something we’re extremely proud of, they’re ultimately a reflection of the commitment, compassion and professionalism of our entire team.”
“Care is one of the few industries where you can genuinely improve someone’s life every single day.”
For Rick, the awards aren’t the main reward.
“The greatest satisfaction comes from seeing the positive difference our team makes to customers and their families. Receiving heartfelt feedback, watching people regain confidence and independence, and seeing our staff develop into exceptional care professionals makes all the hard work worthwhile. Awards and recognition are always appreciated, but the biggest reward is knowing that we’ve helped improve somebody’s quality of life.”
Still hands-on, ten years in
“No two days are ever the same,” says Rick. “A typical day could involve reviewing business performance, working alongside our Registered Managers, discussing recruitment, quality, compliance, finance and business development, and planning for future growth.”
“Although the business has grown considerably, I still enjoy being heavily involved, because staying close to the operation helps ensure we continue delivering the highest standards of care.”
Rick’s wife, Dee, also plays an active role in supporting the business.
“Although I’ve now been part of Bluebird Care for over ten years, I genuinely still love what we do. Supporting customers and their families through some of the most important moments in their lives is incredibly rewarding, and very different from any industry I’ve worked in previously.”
Looking ahead, Rick’s focus is sustainable growth “without ever compromising on quality”. That means expanding the services the business offers, supporting more people to stay independent at home, and continuing to invest in its people, technology and innovation.
Rick’s advice: “Absolutely – but only if you’re prepared to fully commit”
“Franchising provides an excellent framework for success, but ultimately it’s your business and your responsibility to make it successful.”
Believe in what you’re offering. “Choose a product or service that you believe in and one that has strong long-term demand, not just today but well into the future.”
Do your homework. “Speak to existing franchise partners, understand the market, ask plenty of questions and make sure the opportunity is the right fit for you.”
Then commit fully. “Be prepared to roll up your sleeves, work hard and fully immerse yourself in the business. The effort you put in will largely determine what you get back.”
Could Bluebird Care be right for you?
A Bluebird Care franchise lets you build a business for your future while providing an essential service to families in your community. You don’t need care experience. We provide the training, systems and ongoing support to help you launch and grow.