Although the UK’s economic climate has proved challenging for many businesses over the last 12 months, franchising has continued to perform strongly.  Those franchisors that have innovated, grown and ultimately excelled in 2010 are being encouraged to tell their story and see their efforts recognised by entering their leading industry awards.

 

The bfa HSBC Franchisor of the Year Awards is seeking exceptional examples of franchisors that have, through entrepreneurialism and business excellence, truly set the example for others to follow.  Now celebrating its 22nd year, the awards recognise and celebrate the best in ethical franchising, highlighting tales of real achievement and the people behind them.

For winners, the accolade not only crowns them best in the industry for customers, suppliers and potential franchisees but provides a welcome opportunity to motivate franchisees and their staff and recognise their hard work.

 

TaxAssist Accountants, who fought off tough competition to be named 2010 Franchisor of the Year Gold Winners said: “Being named as the 2010 bfa HSBC Franchisor of the Year is extremely exciting and is recognition of how we’ve adapted our business and shaped our future plans for the benefit of all 185 of our franchisees.”

 

 

The bfa HSBC Franchisor of the Year Award;

The HSBC Franchisee Support Award;

The Express Newspapers Brand Builder of the Year Award

 

Brian Smart, Director General – bfa, said: “These awards celebrate the absolute best in franchising and every year we are delighted to uncover more outstanding stories of success driven by some remarkable people. The awards aim to inspire the next generation of franchisors and franchisees, by providing a powerful and well-respected stage to demonstrate success and endorse those that are leading the way.”

 

Cathryn Hayes, Head of Franchising, HSBC, said: “Franchising has again demonstrated real resilience, highlighting that there are opportunities for businesses to thrive with the right strategies in place. Once again, the HSBC Franchisee Support Award is an opportunity for businesses to showcase the systems they have implemented to ensure their franchisees have the best possible chance of success and can reach their potential.”

 

Seán Hammond, Business & Franchise Group Head, Express Newspapers, said: “One of the many skills franchisors require is the ability to build a successful brand. We are looking to recognise franchisors who have been able to develop effective and innovative strategies to take their brand from strength to strength.”

 

Franchisors can enter one, two or all three categories.  The deadline for entries is 31 March 2011 and national finalists will be invited for interview with the judging panel on 4 and 5 May. Winners will be announced at a gala dinner on 16 June 2011. 

 

bfa members will be sent entry forms in the post.  Additional entry forms can be downloaded from www.thebfa.org.  All entries will need to be submitted in hard copy format.  Full terms and conditions can be found at www.thebfa.org.