And the 2022 EWIF winners are...

After two years of being online, there was a real buzz at the NatWest building in Bishopsgate, London, for the 12th annual NatWest EWiF Awards. A highlight for women in franchising, since 2010.  

A celebration of women who push boundaries, set new standards, and overcome adversity, the EWiF Awards recognises industry pioneers, innovators and visionaries, from businesses of all ages and sizes, across every sector. And with over 120 entries submitted, competition was fierce! However, the waiting and nail-biting is now over...

…drum roll please for this year’s franchising crème de la crème!

New Woman Franchisee of the Year, Sponsor: MONEYPENNY

Rebecca Lomax, Puddle Ducks

Like many in this category, Rebecca opened her franchise during lockdown. Undeterred by Covid’s impact on her sector, she made use of all available resources. By the end of her first year, she’d bought a neighbouring territory, giving her 16 staff teaching 700+ customers.

New Woman Franchisor of the Year, Sponsor: DAISY FIRST AID

Camilla Culshaw, The Teepover Club

Most business owners reach a point when they need to consider the best route of expansion. For Camilla, franchising her brand was a top priority, hurried by increasing demand, thanks to the pandemic. And, as she welcomed her first franchisee, she also welcomed a new baby!

Woman Franchise Employee of the Year, Sponsor: BODDY MATTHEWS

Lucy Crabtree, babyballet Franchising Ltd

For anyone running a franchise, having an employee who knows the business so well she can operate as the owner, is invaluable. This is true for Lucy, who was instrumental in the development of the brand for which she works, and enabled franchisees to increase turnover.

Service Provider of the Year, Sponsor: NATWEST

Suzie McCafferty, Platinum Wave Franchising

Servicing the franchise industry involves working with a variety of clients and industries, supporting their growth. Suzie helped a number of brands to launch or expand into the UK, during 2021; tapping into her personal franchising knowledge and expertise.

EWiF Ambassador of the Year, Sponsor: WHAT FRANCHISE

Suzie McCafferty, Platinum Wave Franchising

Suzie is passionate about franchising, and its benefit to women starting their own business. So much so, she takes any and every opportunity to educate people about it, including politicians and students. A true ambassador for the franchise industry, at all levels.

Young Woman in Franchising of the Year, Sponsor: McDONALD'S RESTAURANTS

Abi Doublard, Anytime Fitness UK

2021 hit some industries harder than others. However, Abi played a major role in reopening her brand after lockdown. She inspired most customers back – plus 17,000 new ones – in the first month. Newly appointed to the franchise leadership team, she also oversaw a major franchise rebrand!

Woman Franchisee of the Year, Sponsor: DARWIN GRAY

Ally Phillips, Pink Spaghetti

Running a top franchise in the network is a brilliant achievement. Ally became the fastest growing franchise, increasing her customer-base and employing more staff. She now shares her success to inspire others in her network.

Woman Franchisor of the Year, Sponsor: NOVUNA BUSINESS FINANCE

Lucy Campbell, Right at Home UK

Lucy’s passion and commitment to her brand and sector, saw her take the lead in many areas – from speaking to the media, to lobbying for better treatment of care workers. All this after her recent promotion to CEO.

Inspirational Woman of the Year, Sponsor: PLATINUM WAVE FRANCHISING

Debbie Simpkins, InXpress

Many of us know someone who inspires us, which is what this award recognises. Someone like Debbie who didn’t just run her franchise whilst undergoing surgery and cancer treatment, she substantially grew it! All at a time when being in hospital was a lonely road, thanks to Covid restrictions.

And finally…

Lucy Crabtree from babyballet Ltd. was crowned the Overall Woman in Franchising, sponsored by the bfa.

A massive THANK YOU to everyone who entered, attended, hosted and sponsored this year, and congratulations to all the winners. If you weren’t successful, or you didn’t enter, keep an eye on your network for next year’s award-winner. It could even be you! Find out more, visit ewif.org.