Franchised Butlers?

Those who hanker for an English butler may soon have what Ivor Spencer maintains is the next best thing--an English- trained butler.

The Ivor Spencer School for British Butlers and Administrators, located in London, of course, plans to establish its first-ever franchise in the Southland later this year.

Spencer says he chose Los Angeles for “its television producers, movie stars and show-biz people.” He observes, “Los Angeles has many people who like to live well.”

For some, the cost of living well is about to increase by $25,000--the amount Spencer-trained butlers command in starting pay. They also get a car, medical expenses, food and lodging.

A small price to pay, of course, for one who is “a friend and confidante, friendly but not familiar” who exhibits “great stamina” and who demands only 1 1/2 days off a week, Spencer notes. Spencer says he understands the character of the American millionaire, “They are generous, but tough.”

Only a lucky few will have the opportunity to employ the butlers--these “status symbols,” says Spencer--because his Los Angeles franchise is expected to train at most 30 butlers a year.