Our History
The Doctor Services story began in Brisbane, Australia, in 1989 with a one-person mobile repair operation specialising in automotive vinyl restoration. Over more than three decades, that original service developed into an international repair and restoration network spanning leather, fabric, timber, stone and specialty surfaces.
Our History in New Zealand
New Zealand became an important part of that story in 2021, when The Doctor brands officially launched here with locally operated territories backed by the experience, systems and specialist knowledge developed across the wider network.
Today, our New Zealand Doctors provide mobile furniture and surface repair, cleaning and restoration services for homes and businesses, combining international experience with local service throughout the communities they operate in.
Business Formation
Founded in Brisbane, Australia as a one-person mobile vinyl repair service specialising in automotive interiors, the business established the foundation for a scalable mobile franchise model.
Franchising Begins
The concept evolved into a structured franchise system under The Vinyl Doctor brand, introducing protected territories and system-based operations that would guide future expansion.
The Leather Doctor Expansion
Growing demand for leather restoration led to the evolution of The Leather Doctor brand. National expansion accelerated with improved branding, uniforms, systems, and commercial partnerships.
International Launch - Dubai
The first international expansion took place in Dubai under a master franchise structure, demonstrating the strength and adaptability of the franchise model across global markets.
The Timber Doctor Launch
The Timber Doctor brand was introduced to service timber and specialty surface repairs, expanding the group’s technical expertise and service capability.
The Fabric Doctor Launch
The Fabric Doctor was launched, further strengthening the multi-brand structure and allowing franchisees to diversify their services and income streams. Franchise numbers reached 50.
International Launch - New Zealand
With strong demand and established systems in place, The Doctor brands launched in New Zealand. Early territories were quickly secured, marking the beginning of sustained growth in the region.
100+ Franchise Milestone
The network surpassed 100 franchise partners across Australia and New Zealand, reflecting long-term stability, system maturity, and strong franchise demand.
The Stone Doctor Launch
The Stone Doctor brand was introduced to complement the Timber Doctor, expanding into granite, marble, tile, porcelain, and engineered surface repairs. This completed the four-brand service structure.
International Launch - United States
International expansion continued into the United States, with the first Leather Doctor franchise established in California. This marked the next phase of global growth for the group.
The Doctor Services Group Rebrand
All brands were unified under The Doctor Services Group, strengthening global positioning and consolidating Leather, Fabric, Timber, and Stone services under one international identity.
Today
The Doctor Services Group operates across Australia, New Zealand, the Middle East, and the United States, supporting franchise partners and delivering professional surface repair and restoration services worldwide.
Corporate Responsibility & Sustainability
Extending Asset Life
Our repair-first approach is particularly relevant for New Zealand households and businesses looking to get more life from the furniture and surfaces they already own.
Where restoration is practical, repairing an existing lounge, table, floor, benchtop or other surface can reduce unnecessary replacement and help keep usable materials in service for longer.
Environmentally Responsible Products
Our brands exclusively use waterbased, low-toxicity repair and cleaning products. This reduces environmental impact while ensuring safe application in homes and commercial spaces.
Where possible, products are developed and manufactured to strict quality and environmental standards.
Mobile Model = Reduced Environmental Impact
As a mobile service franchise, our model reduces the need for:
- Large retail premises
- High-overhead operations
- Unnecessary transport and logistics
This results in a lower operational footprint compared to traditional service businesses.
Community & Charity Support
The Doctor Services Group and its franchise partners actively support charitable and community initiatives across our operating regions.
Our network has participated in fundraising campaigns and community programmes supporting cancer research, healthcare foundations and local initiatives.
A Proven Network Built on Experience and Growth
The Doctor Services is supported by a growing network of trained Leather, Fabric, Timber and Stone Doctors, providing specialist furniture and surface repair services to customers across New Zealand. Our mobile service model allows local technicians to assist homes and businesses with professional cleaning, repair and restoration solutions.
Each Doctor operates within their local area while benefiting from the experience, training, systems and support of the wider Doctor Services network. This combination of local service and established expertise helps us provide customers with practical repair solutions across leather, vinyl, fabric, timber, stone and other surfaces.
As our New Zealand network continues to grow, our focus remains on making professional furniture and surface restoration more accessible while helping customers repair and extend the life of the items they already own.
Awards & Industry Recognition
The Doctor Services brands have been recognised by the Franchise Council of Australia and national industry bodies for excellence in franchise system development and multi-unit performance.
The Doctor Services Group has been named a finalist in the following categories:
- 2016 – Established Franchisor of the Year
- 2017 – Established Franchisor of the Year
- 2018 – Multi - Unit Franchise of the Year QLD/NT
- 2018 – Multi - Unit Franchise of the Year VIC/TAS
- 2018 – Established Franchisor of the Year
- 2026 – Australian Franchisor of the Year
- 2026 – Australian Franchisor of the Year 50+ Units
- 2026 – Franchise Finance Manager of the Year
These recognitions reflect the strength of our systems, franchise support structure, and the performance of our franchise partners across Australia.
To find out more about our franchise system, click here.
To request more information on becoming part of the Doctor Services franchisee as a Leather, Fabric, Timber or Stone Doctor, click here.
