Top UK franchisors shortlisted for prestigious industry awards

The British Franchise Association (bfa) today announces the 14 finalists in the 2012 bfa HSBC Franchisor of the Year Awards, supported by Express Newspapers. The shortlisted franchisors were selected from a range of business sizes and industries across the UK and represent sectors as diverse as home cleaning services to global telecommunications.

The Awards, now in their 23rd year, showcase ethical and innovative business ideas and the inspiring people behind them. They bring to life the stories of the exceptional franchisors supporting their franchisee network and building strong brands – serving to motivate the next generation of franchisors and franchisees.

There are three categories for the Awards: The bfa HSBC Franchisor of the Year Award; The HSBC Franchisee Support Award; and The Express Newspapers Brand Builder of the Year Award. The shortlisted franchisors in each category are highlighted below:

bfa HSBC Franchisor of the Year Award, supported by Express Newspapers 

• Autosmart International
• Driver Hire
• TaxAssist Accountants
• Home Instead Senior Care
• McDonald’s Restaurants

HSBC Franchisee Support Award

• O2
• Jasper’s Franchise
• Countrywide Signs
• Maid2Clean
• Auditel

Express Newspapers - Brand Builder of the Year Award

• EnviroVent
• Wiltshire Farm Foods
• Cafe 2 U
• Mac Tools

The finalists have been invited to present to the judging panel, face-to-face, on the 15th or 16th May 2012. The winners in each of the three categories will be announced at the 23rd British Franchisor of the Year Awards gala dinner on 21st June 2012 at the Telford International Centre.

Cathryn Hayes, Head of Franchising, HSBC, said: “What these businesses have in common is the implementation of innovative practices that are driving industry standards. The HSBC Franchisee Support Award recognises these outstanding franchisors for the strategic direction and support they offer their network of franchisees. Their stories are an inspiration to businesses of all sizes across the UK.”

Brian Smart, Director General, bfa, said: “We are seeing businesses challenge industry standards and employ ethical business practices in order to inspire future franchisors and franchisees. Our finalists are being recognised for doing just that. The bfa HSBC Franchisor of the Year Awards offer a chance for UK franchisors to be acknowledged for these successes and we very much look forward to showcasing the best of the best at our gala dinner in June.”

Seán Hammond, Head of Franchising, Express Newspapers, said: “We received a high standard of entries this year and have seen a real focus on franchisors building and maintaining their brand, which is increasingly challenging as business becomes progressively more international and competition increases on a global scale. The bfa HSBC Franchisor of the Year Awards, supported by Express Newspapers, provides a platform for the most innovative and inspiring brand builders to share their successes and be rewarded for their achievements.”

For further information, visit www.thebfa.org or call the bfa on 01865 379 892.