Posted:05-August-2026
Building a business with purpose
After a successful career in facilities management, James Stone was looking for an opportunity to take control of his future while continuing to deliver outstanding service to customers. Today, as the Regional Director for Naturespace Buckingham, he's building a business that combines commercial success with a genuine commitment to protecting the environment.
Background
Before joining Naturespace, James built a successful career in facilities management and also gained valuable experience as a franchisee with a national drainage franchise. Running his own business gave him first-hand insight into what makes a successful franchise partnership, from the importance of strong operational support to the value of a recognised brand and proven systems.
Having experienced franchising before, James knew exactly what he was looking for when considering his next venture.
"I enjoyed being a franchisee because it gave me the opportunity to run my own business with the backing of an established brand. When I started looking for my next opportunity, I wanted a business with strong values, genuine growth potential and a sector that was making a positive difference."
That search led him to Naturespace.
Why Naturespace?
For James, Naturespace stood out because it wasn't a traditional grounds maintenance business.
"The environmental focus really appealed to me. Naturespace is about managing open spaces responsibly, encouraging biodiversity and doing the right thing for customers, communities and nature. That made it very different from other opportunities I'd looked at."
Established in 2023, Naturespace specialises in sustainable open space maintenance and management, helping developers, housing management companies, schools, commercial clients and community organisations maintain green spaces in ways that protect biodiversity while delivering consistently high standards.
Launching the Business
Launching a new business is never without its challenges, but James says the structured franchise model and ongoing support gave him confidence from day one.
"The systems were already in place, there was excellent support from the franchisor and, importantly, access to work from launch. That allowed me to focus on building relationships with customers and delivering a high-quality service."
Operating across Buckinghamshire and the surrounding area, James provides year-round open space management, including grass cutting, hedge maintenance, SuDS management, habitat management, winter maintenance, litter picking and wildflower meadow management for a wide range of commercial and residential clients.
Life as a Franchisee
No two days are the same.
From managing open spaces on new housing developments to maintaining business parks and community sites, James enjoys the variety that comes with running his own business.
"What I enjoy most is seeing the difference our work makes. It's rewarding knowing that we're creating attractive, safe spaces for people while also improving habitats for wildlife."
The opportunity to build relationships with customers and become part of the local community has been another highlight.
"Customer service has always been important to me. Building trust with clients and delivering consistently high standards is what helps the business continue to grow."
Support from the Franchisor
James believes one of the biggest advantages of joining a franchise is having an experienced team behind you.
"Whenever I've needed support, it's been there. Whether it's operational advice, business development or simply having someone to bounce ideas off, the support network has been excellent."
He also values being part of a growing network of franchise owners who regularly share ideas and best practice.
Looking Ahead
With demand increasing for sustainable open space management and Biodiversity Net Gain becoming an increasingly important consideration for developers and landowners, James sees significant opportunities for continued growth.
"My focus is on continuing to grow the business, strengthening relationships with existing customers and building a reputation as the go-to provider for sustainable open space management across Buckinghamshire."
James' Advice to Prospective Franchisees
"If you're prepared to work hard and genuinely care about delivering a great service, it's a fantastic opportunity. Running your own business is incredibly rewarding and, with the right support around you, you can build something you're really proud of."
For James, joining Naturespace has been about far more than starting a business.
"It's given me the opportunity to build a business with purpose—one that benefits customers, local communities and the environment. That's something I'm proud to be part of."
Interested and want to know more about Naturespace?
The Naturespace profile outlines all aspects of their franchise opportunity and allows you to contact them for further information or to ask a question.
