China's ever-expanding divorce rate has nurtured the growth of a whole industry claiming to specialize in the business of breaking up.

In fact, the market for divorce services is so good that the Shanghai Weiqing Marriage Consulting Company, widely known as China's first "divorce company", opened its 28th franchise outlet on January 7 in Hangzhou.

"During our first week, we received 40 calls from people seeking counselling," said Li Peixiang, general manager and marriage analyst at the Hangzhou outlet.

As of Monday, six clients had signed contracts with the new branch office to secure counselling services.

Most of the clients said they were on the verge of divorce and looking for help to win the biggest possible share of the property in the divorce settlement.

Though the company has built its reputation helping people part ways, Li said she wanted people to think of her company as a relationship consulting company, rather than a "divorce company".

"We also provide psychological counselling to people who find themselves caught in a web of friendship, love and unhappiness," Li said.

Marriage crises

She added that Hangzhou Weiqing's counsellors were focused on helping their clients end their marriage crises, which is one of the principles that Shanghai Weiqing asks its 28 franchise outlets to uphold.

Li said her company employs a team of professionals that includes marriage analysts, psychologists and lawyers, all with appropriate licenses.

After a face-to-face interview with their clients, the consultants assess the client's marriage. If they feel the marriage is hopeless, they may encourage divorce. If not, they will develop ways to save the marriage.

"Divorce is the last resort so long as there is a possibility of reconciliation," Li said.

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