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Plumber and graphic designer join forces to create tradespeople app
“Imagine Checkatrade and Uber had a baby,” said Chris Briggs, co-founder of the new tradespeople and client matching app Phixed.
But unlike the traditional traders-matching apps, Phixed is localised only for Bristol and there are no subscription fees for tradespeople to be on the platform.
Briggs, who is graphic designer by profession joined forces with a local plumber Dan Culliford to create a niche platform for local tradespeople.
When asked about “cowboy builders”, Briggs pointed out that before a tradesperson is included in the platform there is a stringent vetting process which includes checking insurance status and a portfolio of previous works.
“Imagine Checkatrade and Uber had a baby,” said Chris Briggs, co-founder of the new tradespeople and client matching app Phixed – photo: Phixed
Briggs explained that it ensures safety through in-app communication, tracking and real reviews.
Tradespeople have to upload public liability insurance with a minimum value of £2m and other certifications.
He said: “On the trade side, we can offer free leads. By free, we mean absolutely free. There’ll be no charge ever. There’s no subscriptions. There’s no price per lead. It is entirely free.
“We make money. We make money from the homeowner, which we’re more than happy to be upfront about. We do that because we live in a world of booking fees and service fees, but ultimately we’re going to offer them a better service than they’ve had elsewhere.
“So we’re the first platform offering an end to end service, so from posting your job to making your payment, you can stay within the app.
After posting a job on the app, for example a burst pipe, the platform would produce quotes and builders available – photo: Milan Perera
After posting a job on the app, for example a burst pipe, the platform would produce quotes and builders available.
When a communication is established between a homeowner and a tradesperson, it would provide updates, as in a taxi app, estimated time on arrival, “on route” and arrival.
The Bristol-founded tradespeople app currently has four members, including Kaitlin, community and content co-ordinator (right) – photo: Milan Perera
“A typical competitor, for example, their job is done once they’ve set you up with the trades person, so then it’s between you and the trades person. But with this app, it’s not complete until the customer leaves a feedback upon the completion of the job.”
The business was founded six months ago and the app was launched two months ago.
The new localised tradespeople app was launched by graphic designer Chris Briggs (pictured) and plumber Dan Culliford – photo: Milan Perera
With the two co-founders there are four people in the business. With expansion in mind to other parts of South West, Briggs is looking for an in-house developer for trouble shooting the tech side of the business.
Main photo: Phixed
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