Sivam
Meet Sivam, co-owner of Ripples Walton-on-Thames alongside his business partner Andrew. With a specialist background in the accessibility sector of the bathroom market, Sivam has long been passionate about elevating accessible design beyond the purely functional. His goal - and now his reality - has been to bring beautifully considered, accessibility-focused bathrooms into the mainstream, proving that practicality and premium design can live side by side.
Opening a Ripples showroom gave him the perfect platform to do just that. Today, Sivam is helping customers create spaces that not only look exceptional, but also support comfort, dignity and long-term independence - a mission he’s been committed to throughout his career.
Q: How did you first discover Ripples?
A: I first became aware of Ripples around 10 years ago. What caught my attention was how strong and design-led the brand looked on social media and across the wider market.
Q: What initially attracted you to the idea of a Ripples franchise?
A: The appeal was being able to run my own business while benefiting from an established, premium brand. I loved the idea of having an amazing showroom, but also gaining the knowledge, experience and support of the wider franchise team.
Q: In your view, what sets Ripples apart from other bathroom companies?
A: Ripples is truly customer-centric. We design around how a person lives and uses their bathroom, focusing on their lifestyle, needs, design intent and functional requirements.
Q: What were your biggest concerns before becoming a franchisee?
A: My biggest worry was opening a showroom and no one walking through the door. Choosing Ripples gave me reassurance - the brand is well known, and the marketing support is extensive, which made a huge difference.
“My biggest worry was opening a showroom and no one walking through the door. Choosing Ripples gave me reassurance - the brand is well known, and the marketing support is extensive, which made a huge difference.”
-Sivam, co-owner of Ripples Walton-on-Thames
Q: What was the training and onboarding process like?
A: The training was comprehensive. I met suppliers, visited training facilities and learned the full product range. I also spent time with other franchisees, so I knew exactly who to go to for support. On top of that, I visited Ripples HQ in Bath for sales and marketing training, which gave me everything I needed to feel confident running the showroom.
Q: What does a typical day in the showroom look like for you?
A: Every day is different, and that’s what I enjoy. Some days I’m supporting with the design of projects with our designer, other days I’m visiting clients at home to understand their space. Some days are more operational - arranging deliveries, managing orders and organising suppliers. It’s varied and refreshing.
Q: How would you describe the culture across the Ripples network?
A: There’s a real sense of collaboration - it feels like a family. Everyone is here to support each other and help each showroom do the best it can.
Q: What do you enjoy most about being a Ripples franchisee?
A: The support is incredible. If I ever have a question, I can pick up the phone to another franchisee or the head office team and know someone will help. It’s also extremely rewarding to see a project move from concept to completion and to be part of that journey with the customer and designers.
Q: How do you feel about the showroom you’ve created?
A: I’m really proud of it. It’s a space where customers come to get inspired, explore products and see what’s possible. The feedback since opening has been really positive.
Q: Would you recommend becoming a Ripples franchisee?
A: Definitely. You get access to an extensive product range, strong head office support, and a brilliant brand - plus the backing of the wider Ripples family.
Q: What advice would you give someone considering a Ripples franchise?
A: Speak to other Ripples owners. Everyone is genuinely supportive and will happily share their experience — from day-to-day operations to what’s involved in getting set up. There’s no such thing as a bad question.
