The benefits of franchising explained

This from Austin Healey...

Has anyone spotted the sudden rush to slap paint on VT stations?

Here the waiting room at Stafford.


And here, the stairs at Crewe.


Might this be related to franchise renewal, and if so can we expect the next coat to be applied around 2025?

UPDATE: This from Steve Strong...

Either its down to franchise renewal or both Stafford and Crewe are about to be closed...