Frank Hauge — Kvik Stavanger & Bryne
Frank Hauge took over Kvik Stavanger in early 2022 after the previous franchisee held the store for 17 years — and hit the ground running. His very first year earned him Store of the Year in Norway, a title he and his team just clinched again for the third year running. With the added honour of being named Store of Year for all of Kvik in 2024!
From fashion retail to kitchens
Frank's background wasn’t in carpentry or interior design — it was fashion retail. He started clothing stores in Norway in his early 20s, learning the ropes of leadership, marketing, accounting and customer service. He says that despite kitchens having longer purchase cycles compared to garments, the people side of selling is surprisingly transferable.
The franchise journey
Frank discovered the franchise opportunity through Kvik’s recruitment partner Cappa. He applied, underwent structured evaluations, interviewed with the Kvik country team and mentor, and spent time in Denmark diving into training and store visits. He highlights that the process was professional, highly supportive, and grounded in rigorous preparation from day one.
Building success with team & service
Upon taking over, he prioritised seamless handover with the experienced team already in place. Customers responded positiviely and design consultations appointents filled up, prompting hiring even more staff and even the opening of a second store, Kvik Bryne, in early 2025. Frank stresses that excellent team spirit and positivity are key to his success.
His approach merges operational rigour with heartfelt service: “To get a new customer is harder than to keep an old one—if you treat them well, they’ll come back.” Service excellence is what he believes separates Kvik from other kitchen retailers. He believes owners must be on the shop floor — this isn't a passive investment, but an active leadership role.
Why choose Kvik?
Frank values Kvik's focus on volume over high‑end exclusivity. It gives broad customer appeal without pricing people out of the market. Combined with robust onboarding, ongoing support, and transparency, he felt Kvik aligned well with his style and values. He describes the culture around the network of franchisees and the brand as high‑energy and collaborative — not problem‑focused but opportunity‑driven.
Advice for aspiring franchisees
Frank is candid: “If you’re not prepared to be hands-on and work the hours needed, then this isn’t for you.” He warns against the illusion of being able to sit in an office somewhere else — success demands being present and engaged from morning to night.
Frank’s journey — from fashion entrepreneur to award-winning kitchen retailer—demonstrates how strong leadership, team cohesion, and exceptional customer service can transform a longstanding location into a dynamic and growing local business.
